Last week I was discussing how the first step to developing a team designed by God begins with TRUST. Trust involves 11 different yet intertwined parts. I defined how to “Trust in the Lord First” and how “Trust is Active” and as promised I will be discussing three steps to take to maintain trust levels with co-workers. Keep in mind to build trust everyone must be involved and an active participant; however, as a leader you impact other’s attitudes and behaviors. Remember, emotions are contagious!
Start by “Being Loyal to Each Other” – Do two walk together unless they have agreed to? Amos 3:3. When I agree to lead others, in essence, I have agreed to work together as one unit seeking to understand others and knowing that each person walks at different pace but in the same direction toward the same goal. Sometimes I find myself hurt by another’s lack of loyalty and it is hard to remain faithful and loyal to them so I have to remind myself that Peter denied Jesus 3 times before he became his most devoted follower. Remain loyal, keep your integrity in tact and forgive others.
Have confidence in the word of another- Paul warns us in Galatians 5:5 watch out or you will be destroyed by each other – It is never my intension to destroy others but sometimes my words are bitter and sharp and cut others esteem in two. So I need to make sure my words are pleasing to the Lord and I am keeping my promises to others. If an issue arises when I cannot meet the demands of a project or I snap because I am lacking emotional intelligence that day, I offer an apology. God expects me to have consistent follow-through on my promises and He also holds me to a higher behavior level because I am a daily witness for Him.
Trust is governed by your thoughts –Philippians 4:8 Paul urges us to fix our thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. I should always be seeking to discipline my thoughts to be pure because actions begin with thoughts. I try to think beforehand about what comes out of my mouth so I can speak and act wisely towards others. My focus must be pure toward my co-workers, thinking they are working with me, having the best intentions in mind. Next week we are going to take a look deep inside our hearts…come prepared for surgery!
Imitating His Thoughts, Tammy