“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). Each person is responsible before God, yet we live in community. In healthy, faith-based relationships, we can honor one another and hold one another accountable. Barnabas did this for Paul and Mark, like a good coach, he helped them move forward into their calling.
What a coach isn’t
When I was in Japan many years ago, I was describing coaching. The translator who was working with me told me point blank that the word “coach” would not work in the Japanese context. “A coach is someone who yells at you, who humiliates and shames you– even at times physically beating you,” he explained. “I don’t think that’s what you’re getting at here.” Indeed not.
What a coach is
A coach is one who encourages, supports, and spurs on. It’s someone who challenges when needed, listens, and asks good questions. A coach wants others to succeed and connects them with the resources they need to do so.
So in Japan we decided to call coaching “Barnabas Ministry.” It fits. Barnabas was someone who was not in the spotlight himself but dedicated his life to encouraging and developing others. He didn’t have professional training; he simply made the most of the gifts God gave him to support others in their ministries. You– and others in your church– can certainly do the same. It’s not out of reach.
Consider the ways coaches make a difference in drawing out and developing the God-given talents of both individuals and teams. It doesn’t matter how gifted someone is– how strong their God-given talent is, how good their skills are– no one can do it all alone. Coaches, like Barnabas, come alongside people and empower them to live out their calling to the best of their ability. A good coach can make all the difference.
Coaches come alongside people and empower them to live out their calling to the best of their ability. Click To TweetIf you serve faithfully and well in this way, you may never be in the spotlight and people may not even know your name, but think of the difference you will have made in the lives of individuals and on the church as a whole.
For Meditation
Coaching transforms people. Consider what a difference your church could make for the kingdom of God if every person in a service or leadership role was as fully supported as possible.
Action
This week keep a running list of areas inside of the church that could benefit from coaching. Brainstorm as many as you can. Then reflect on a few simple ways you and others could intentionally bring some encouragement to these people.
Resources
Biblical Basis for Coaching- This FREE download examines the ways that coaching aligns with scriptural principles.
Coaching 101- This book will help you discover the power of coaching in your life both as a coach and as someone being coached. Your life will be enriched if you will open yourself up to receive the wise counsel available from God through others who desire to enhance the potential of your life. And your heart will beat a little faster as you tap into the adventure God has made available for you, as you invest in the lives of others through coaching.