Chess or Checkers?

Is leading people more like chess or checkers?

Checkers is a game where you skip over the opponent’s pieces to remove them from the board. In checkers, every piece moves the same way.

The game of chess is much more complex. All the pieces have the same end goal (defeating your opponent), but they do not all move in the same way. Some pieces can only move one spot per turn while others move further. Some pieces can only move in one direction, but others can move in all directions.

In the second book of his Habitudes series, author Dr. Tim Elmore argues that leading people is like playing chess. The better a leader knows his people, he will see their uniqueness and be able to mentor and motivate them accordingly.

Romans 12:4-8 reminds us, “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”

At Southwest, we have some key words that we believe all disciples of Jesus should strive for: Grow, Connect, Serve.

As we attempt all of these in our faith walk, we need to realize that it may not look exactly the same for us as it does for other people. Others may not “grow” the same way I do. Some people grow from learning, and others from doing. Others may not “connect” the same way I do. Some people like to connect in large groups, and others with just a few. And people serve differently...some people are very private while others are okay with being in the public eye. Some people are good givers of money, and others are great at giving their time.

So, as you lead yourself, your family, and others...how are they uniquely formed and how can you mentor and motivate them accordingly?

Blessings, Franklin