Aubrey Johnson conducted a Leadership workshop last year for our congregation. Part of the workshop looked at the Hallmarks of An Effective Deacon. Globally, the Lord’s church is in need of Deacons who are effective. Aubrey reminds us Effective Deacons:
1. Build Teams (Eccl. 4:9-12). Deacons are servant leaders. Deacons embrace the idea of TEAM.
2. Do What They Say They Will Do (Matt. 5:37). Credibility & respect come from follow through!
3. Find A Way Forward (Matt. 7:7). Effective Deacons ask, “How am I doing?” “What am I missing?”
4. Look Out For Their Elders’ Interests (Heb. 13:17). Effective Deacons give feedback without pushback while completing their task.
5. Go The Second Mile (Matt. 5:41). Effective Deacons do not hide from hard work. They ask, “How can I lighten your load?”
6. Are Great Examples (I Tim. 4:12). Effective Deacons are faithful in attendance & dedicated to supporting the church’s core ministries (the ones all members are expected to support).
7. Put Their Families First (Eph. 5:25). Christian service begins at home.
8. Are Always Improving (I Cor. 15:58). Coasting isn’t for Christians & much less for Deacons.
9. Have Great Attitudes (Phil. 4:4). Effective Deacons smile, are joyful & thankful.
10. Pray Frequently & Fervently (Luke 18:1). Prayer creates the right frame of mind for working.
11. Take Ownership Of Results (Gal. 6:7-9). If things don’t go well, Effective Deacons get determined rather than discouraged.
12. Promote Peace & Progress In The Church (Heb. 12:14). Effective Deacons are facilitators, not dictators.
As with Ministers & Elders, we need to be looking to the future. Are we encouraging future Deacons?
