Discretion in Leadership
by: Dr. Herbert Bailey
Discretion in youth ministry is important. Adult Youth Workers that lack discretion can damage the momentum of a growing youth ministy. A lack of discretion in leadership can also destroy the credibilty of a ministry leader.
Root word of “Discretion” is Discreet
Discreet: (Gen. 41:33, 39; Titus 2:1-5)
Circumspect in word or deed;
Able to keep silent about matters where prudence requires it;
Tactful;
Quietly tasteful.
Circumspect: (Eph 5:15)
Attentive to the consequences of one’s behavior, cautions;
Prudence: (I Sam. 16:17-18; II Chron. 2:12; Prov. 8:12; 12:16; 12:23; 13:16; 14:8(NIV) 16:21 19:14; 22:3; Amos 5:13; Eph 1:8)
Foresight leading a person to avoid error or danger
Tact:
An understanding of how to avoid giving offense and how to keep or win goodwill.
For the sake of ministry, we must exercise discretion in both our behavior (action/reactions) and in our words/conversation (Mark 4:34; II Cor. 6:3; James 3:1-2 (AMP))
You can’t/shouldn’t say everything before everyone (Gal. 2:9-14)
A person without discretion will ruin friendships and relationships. (Prov. 16:28; 17:9)
Pre-requisites for a Leader’s Friends
- Must have spiritual maturity (Gal. 6:1; James 4:4)
- Must have a good reputation (Acts 6:3; II Cor. 8:18-22; I Tim. 3:7)
- Must have speak wisdom (Prov. 22:11)
- Must be consistent (Prov. 17:17)
- Must not have wrong motives (Ps. 41:5-9; Prov. 14:20; 19:6; 27:6)
- Must be able to sharpen you (make you better) Prov. 27:17
- Must have discretion (Prov. 22:11; 27:9)