The Overflow

Confession time: I serve in church leadership, and I want people to like me.

Do you?

Because that can actually be a dangerous combination.

No, I don’t mean that church leaders should aspire to be jerks (though some wouldn’t have to try very hard), nor do I mean that a desire to be liked is inherently sinful – wanting to be loved by your congregation is quite natural and one shouldn’t feel guilty about that.

I simply mean that a desire for the approval of men can easily turn into an idol if we’re not careful, because it can keep us from doing God’s will when it’s socially or relationally uncomfortable. Continue reading →