Enthusiasm is both a gift and a choice. Everyone is enthusiastic about something. It’s important for people to experience enthusiastic church leaders – leaders with enthusiasm for Jesus, people, the church, and ministry.
Enthusiasm can be defined as displaying enjoyment, interest, or approval about a particular subject or activity with a desire to be involved.
Enthusiasm can be lost. Being overly enthusiastic may come off as over the top and awkward. Enthusiasm must be authentic, but it’s an attitude that can be cultivated.
Here are nine ways enthusiasm helps church leaders:
ENTHUSIASM…
Puts the Focus on the Blessings
John Maxwell writes about the law of momentum. When something is going well, it all seems to be going well. An enthusiastic attitude puts the focus on the blessings in life and helps lessen the impact (and issues) related to little things that don’t go well.
Raises the Energy of the Congregation
An enthusiastic pastor or church staff leader can raise the energy level of the congregation in part by his or her enthusiastic attitude. Your enthusiasm is contagious when you use your words and actions to let people know you love Jesus, them, the mission, and the church.
Helps Involve People
Enthusiasm is a magnet that draws people. The culture of getting involved grows more easily as people want to be around and help those who are excited to serve.
Gives a Boost in Asking
Asking people to serve or give is not always easy. When you have enthusiasm for the mission and connecting people to it, your desire and motivation grow because you believe people will respond.
Builds Confidence
Encouraging others builds their confidence. As the culture of your team and congregation becomes more confident, it snowballs.
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Draws People into the Organization
People are drawn to organizations with excitement and vision. The church should seek to draw in the community with their visible love for Jesus and the community. Pastors who are enthusiastic have an easier time drawing in volunteers and employees.
Lifts the Mood of Other Ministry Leaders
Pastors and church leaders have opportunities to meet with other ministry leaders. While there may be times to vent and support one another, your overall enthusiasm for ministry and your church can be a positive witness. Live in gratitude even when not everything is rosy.
Can be Cultivated and Caught
An enthusiastic attitude can be cultivated in your life and in the lives of those around you. As you seek the Lord, trust in his power and provision, count your blessings, and trust in God to do the life changing work, you are free to be energetic, positive, and grateful for the work you have been given.
Is Good for the Mind and Heart
Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Being enthusiastic begins with your heart focus. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (Matthew 6:33)
Pray that God will give you enthusiasm in your ministry today.