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Dealing with The Great Exodus of Leaders While Moving Beyond Fear to a Better Tomorrow
Change is inevitable, yet we often resist it. The more attached we are to the past, the more fearful we become of the future. But God tells us:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
Instead of fearing the unknown, we must trust that God is leading us forward. The question is: How will we respond? How do we overcome fear with faith?
Godly Leadership in a Time of Transition
The past five years have brought unprecedented challenges—pandemics, economic shifts, AI-driven changes, and political transitions. Now, a record number of leaders—the highest in at least 23 years–are stepping down, leaving gaps in leadership. This disruption can cause uncertainty, but God calls us to rise up and lead with faith.
Biblical Examples of Leadership Succession
Scripture provides powerful examples of leaders preparing successors:
- Moses to Joshua – Moses commissioned Joshua, ensuring a smooth transition (Deuteronomy 31:7-8).
- Elijah to Elisha – Elisha followed Elijah closely, receiving a double portion of his spirit (2 Kings 2:9-15).
- Paul to Timothy – Paul mentored Timothy to lead the early church (2 Timothy 2:2).
Like them, we must equip and guide the next generation in faith and leadership.
A Call to Action for Every Generation
Whether you are retiring, working, or raising a family, you have a role in shaping future leaders:
Retirees – Pass the Torch
Stepping down doesn’t mean stepping away. Use your experience to mentor and guide future leaders. Serve the next generation with Christian mentoring and discipleship. Prepare the next generation of leaders.
“The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree… They shall still bear fruit in old age.” (Psalm 92:12-14)
Workers – Grow in Faith and Leadership
Seek Godly mentors and actively develop leadership skills. Do not fear the future. Have faith and trust in God for your spiritual growth to become the leader according to His will.
“Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14)
Families – Instill Faith in the Next Generation
- Miriam’s quick thinking helped Moses become a great leader (Exodus 2:4-8).
- Eunice and Lois nurtured Timothy’s faith, enabling him to lead (2 Timothy 1:5).
Your role as a parent or sibling shapes the next generation of believers and leaders. Christian family leadership matters.
Foundations of Godly Leadership
Godly leadership is built on:
- Servant Leadership
“Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26-28)
True leaders serve others, following Jesus’ example.
- Integrity & Righteousness
“Select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness.” (Exodus 18:21)
Honest leadership fosters trust and stability.
- Wisdom & Discernment
“The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy.” (James 3:17)
Godly leaders make wise, Spirit-led decisions.
- Compassion & Care
“Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” (Galatians 6:9-10)
Leadership is about loving and serving others.
- Perseverance & Faithfulness
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” (Isaiah 41:10)
Godly leaders stay faithful, no matter the challenge.
Leadership is a Long Journey, Not a Sprint
Leadership is not a quick race—it’s a lifelong journey of endurance and faith. It is more like an Ironman Triathlon composed of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bicycle ride, followed by a 26.2-mile marathon. Run with certainty, everyone can win the unperishable crown, just don’t get disqualified. Paul describes it best:
“I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection.” (1 Corinthians 9:26-27)
We run not for earthly success, but for an eternal crown.
Join Us—Return to the Lord & Grow Spiritually for Succession
We invite you to our Spring 2025 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation (ESSC)—a time of worship, fellowship, and deepening faith.
Let’s build a Christ-centered life together and prepare the next generation to lead.
We look forward to seeing you!
Thursday, April 17, 2025 6:50 PM to 8:10 PM
Friday and Saturday, April 18-19, 2025 9:00 AM to 8:10 PM
Sunday, April 20, 2025 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.
Please find our church location below:
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
Google Maps
In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.
Friday Evening Service: 7:50PM – 9:00PM
Saturday Morning Service: 10:50AM – 12:00Noon
Saturday Afternoon Service: 1:30PM – 2:40PM
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org
