Serving in a local church for many years, I was always looking for ways to be a better leader. I was constantly in search of secret clues to uncover the mystery of what makes for a good leader. Now serving in a broader role as coach for churches, I am still looking for the answer. As I continue to think about this, one common denominator I am seeing in growing churches and great leaders is the concept of “letting go.”

I’ve seen many leaders over the years try to develop a discipleship program or small group philosophy that will raise up leaders while at the same time keeping their behavior under wraps. I overheard one leader recently even refer to it as “controlling their leaders.” My observation has been that control minimizes your leadership base and doesn’t expand it.

Last week while visiting one of the churches I am coaching, I found a refreshing environment of growth. And at the core of that growth is a concept of releasing — or letting go. As I listened to the leadership speak throughout the day, I constantly heard them speak of finding ways to equip and release their leaders. There were no attempts to manage their behavior, control them, or stifle their leadership. Rather, they readily embraced ideas and philosophies that would release their leaders.

Your experience may be different than mine. But mine is indicating that the healthiest, most vibrant churches are embracing this philosophy. So I am encouraging all of us leaders — let go. You have great people around you that want to lead with you. Let them. Will they make mistakes? Most likely. Will those mistakes threaten your ministry? Probably not. Even so, a few messes here or there are likely worth the long-term benefits.