Discussion Questions:
- Capacity Development: Mandy Smith and Markus Watson discuss developing adaptive capacity in leadership. What specific practices or strategies do you think can help leaders maintain their endurance over time?
- Rest and Taking Breaks: Mandy emphasizes the importance of rest. How do you recognize the signs of burnout in your life, and what methods do you use to prioritize self-care and spiritual reflection?
- Sabbath and Rest Discipline: How does the discipline of taking a Sabbath, like Mandy’s uninterrupted Monday, help you reconnect with your spiritual purpose? What challenges do you face in maintaining such a routine?
- Capacity Through Challenges: What kinds of challenges in your life have led to personal growth? How do you discern whether a challenge is a call to expand your capacity or a signal to step back?
- True Self vs. False Self: Mandy Smith and Markus Watson touch on the concept of the “true self” vs. the “false self.” How do you differentiate between your true self that God knows and the false self that tries to meet external expectations?
- Navigating Unknowns in Ministry: With the rapidly changing landscape of ministry, what new approaches or methods have you found effective? How do you incorporate prayer and spiritual discernment in navigating these uncertainties?
- Daily Prayer and Guidance: Mandy mentions seeking daily guidance from God, especially in challenging times. How has daily prayer and reliance on God influenced your leadership or personal life during uncertain periods?
- Desperation and Spiritual Growth: The episode discusses how desperation can deepen reliance on God, turning lament into praise. Can you share an experience where a moment of desperation led to spiritual growth for you or your community?
- Confession and Self-awareness: Mandy talks about confession as a way of turning towards God and acknowledging our true state. How does regular confession impact your spiritual life and leadership?
- Contrast of Secular Professionalism and Christian Leadership: Mandy critiques the application of secular professional standards in the church. How do you navigate the tension between secular professionalism and a more dependent, faith-based approach in your leadership role?
