Living in Increase (Part 6) - Increase in LeadershipSample

Providing Discipline

In week one, we briefly discussed Matthew 18:15-17 and the process of dealing with sin. To refresh your memory, that’s talking to the person one-on-one first, then including 1-2 people if the problem persists, and then bringing it to the church if it continues from there.

When you become a leader, you will need to correct someone at some point. Maybe it’s a child, a family member, a team member, etc. It is important to note that the Bible says to give your rebuke (correction) with complete patience and teaching (2 Timothy 4:2). If you find yourself in a position where you may need to provide uncomfortable feedback, do it out of love. Do it out of a place of wisdom. Spend time in the Word, ask God to give you the right words, and do it with patience and teaching.

Remember that your leadership position can also occur in the home. Parents are instructed to provide discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. Parents must remember it is their role to discipline their children, but they should also seek guidance from their Heavenly Father.

As a parent, you may have to provide discipline to your child. As a leader, you may have to provide discipline to your mentees, friends, and colleagues. Pray about it! Spend time in the Word. The more time you spend with God, the better equipped you will be to handle those difficult conversations. They will come out of a place of love, and you will have the wisdom to deliver correction well.

Carley Sheppard

Action Step: Look up Bible verses that instruct us how to discipline others. Write down what they say.