2
Discussion Questions:
- Nicole discusses the merging of secular ideas like striving and maximizing with Christian leadership. Where have you seen this “resurrection only” mindset show up in your community or church?
- How do you personally wrestle with the tension between “embracing the low” (suffering, surrender) and our cultural drive for success and growth?
- Nicole frames power as neither inherently good nor bad but dependent on how it’s used. Can you share a time when you experienced or observed both the light and dark sides of power in ministry?
- In what practical ways can ministry leaders surrender their power to God and empower others, as Nicole suggests?
- Nicole describes times of feeling both underpowered and tempted to “demonstrate her power.” How do you relate to these experiences, and how do you find a healthy balance?
- The ego chapter resonated as a space of both humility and confidence, rooted in belovedness by God. How do you cultivate this sense of “leading as someone who is deeply loved”?
- How do cultural or worldview backgrounds (honor/shame, guilt/innocence, fear/power) influence our sense of self and ego as leaders?
- Nicole introduces the idea of “sacred slow” in contrast to the hurried pace demanded by ministry. What has helped you discern when to speed up versus when to intentionally slow down?
- The conversation highlights the importance of self-awareness around personality (Enneagram, etc.) in navigating leadership temptations. How has understanding your unique personality shaped how you lead?
- Nicole encourages anchoring ourselves in God’s love and the way of the cross when leading through change and disruption. What does “holding fast to the cross” look like in your current chapter of leadership?
