Any organization that neglects to sponsor and nurture exceptional leaders with loads of potential and move them through the organization are in danger of losing them through the back door.This could be very, very dangerous to organizations. As they lose their best leaders to other organizations that provide challenges and allow opportunities for using the gifts and abilities that God has given them. Organizations must recognize this fact and identify and release strategic sponsors who can work with mentorees.

In most organizations and churches we are more worried with getting by and making sure the programs or services we already offer function at least halfway decent. Organizations, especially the church must take the time to do some long range planning and goal setting. One of the best ways to prepare for the future is to identify and train leaders with potential to influence the organization. This benefits both the organization and the individual. The organization gets someone who is gifted, who is talented, who can lead, who can influence. The individual gets challenging situations and gets to be involved in an organization where he or she can use the potential within them.

In the occasional level of mentoring, we find that counselors are extremely valuable. All of us, at one time or another could use the advice of a trusted third party who acts as an impartial counselor. It is good to check out our thought, attitudes and perspectives. It is good to seek out counselors whenever you need them. Often times when we think of seeking a counselor, we think of ourselves as being weak, as someone who can’t do it on their own, someone who is failed in trusting God. These are all distortions of the truth and misconceptions. God can work in your life and lead you to counselors who can give great advice. Don’t feel bad when you go someone and ask for advice. That is one of the most beneficial and one of the most healthy things you could do.

The teacher-mentor imparts knowledge and understanding with inspiration and excitement and with relevance. The key here is to remember that the more clearly you can discern what it is you need to learn, the easier it will be to find someone to teach it to you. I believe that without a sponsor many potential leaders fall through the cracks. As a pastor it is my responsibility to do my best to insure that potential leaders are mentored by those who can mentor and want to mentor. Sponsors must exhibit humility as they seek to develop others because often the mentorees move beyond the level of influence and authority of the mentor. Being a sponsor takes a very special kind of person who is not self -seeking and who delights to see others move beyond him and have greater impact.

If you are a pastor or in a church leadership position, take that responsibility serious and move out of your comfort zone to begin mentoring someone who has the leadership gift. In order for your ministry to become effective, you must be willing to let go and be a leader, not a continual doer. Remember, Leaders lead other Leaders.

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