There’s a great difference between dumping and delegating. Dr. Roger Fritz wrote, “Dumping is indiscriminate. It’s done for expedience, taking no account of the strengths and weaknesses of the person who is supposed to do the work. In its worst form, it’s a matter of the manager [or cell leader/pastor] dumping whatever he or she doesn’t personally want to do. It’s demeaning and perpetuates unhealthy workplace hierarchies.”
An excellent cell leader/pastor knows how to delgate. It’s an important attribute to develop and employ. However, many struggle with delegation. Here’s why you may choose not to delegate.
You may enjoy the task too much and can’t imagine “allowing” anyone else to do it. Or, you may have had a bad experience in your past with delegation. Maybe you believe that you are hard pressed to find quality people. Some who have difficulty delegating want to maintain total control. There are a myriad of other explanations, aren’t there?
You won’t be surprised to hear me say that delegation is a healthy practice when done appropriately. Here are some questions to ponder.
WHAT needs to be done? WHY does it need to be done? WHEN does it need to be done? WHO is the best person to do it? WHAT equipping needs to take place?
If you want to be a great delegator, then know yourself and your cell/team members. Clearly define priorities and tasks. Provide equipping and resources. Hold people accountable for their actions. Recognize their efforts and extend your gratitude to them consistently.
Andrew Carnegie (1835-1919) is known for having built one of the most powerful and influential corporations in United States history. Later in his life he gave away most of his riches to fund many libraries, schools and universities in America, Scotland and other countries throughout the world. “Carnegie” is a well known name worldwide.
What follows is the epitaph on Carnegie’s tombstone: “Here lies a man who knew how to enlist in his service better men than himself.”
Two closing questions.
What is God teaching you to delegate?
What did Jesus delegate to you through the power of the Holy Spirit?
Comments?
by Rob Campbell