The Most Underestimated Leader in the American Church
Last week I had the privilege of spending the week with Bob Russell. You may never have heard of him, but in my opinion he is the most underestimated leader of the American church.
For the past forty years, he’s done nothing but quietly and with great humility build one of the greatest churches in the history of the American church. He’s solid, deep, compassionate, loving, well-grounded, and yet willing to take the right risks and innovate when necessary. The great Southeast Christian Church is continuing to move forward and grow.
I’ve often heard it said that the greatness of a leader is not so much what happens while he’s there, but what happens when he’s gone. I’m glad to say because of Bob’s insight, he planned for his own successor years ago.
And that succession plan is working beautifully. Dave Stone, the new lead minister of the church is leading with clarity and support of the congregation, all of this made possible by the generosity of Bob Russell.
Bob Russell is the kind of leader I want to be – strong, committed, even driven, but undeniably humble, almost to a fault. My only problem with Bob is I wish he were still in the saddle, leading that great church. He acts too young and looks too young to be retired. But I’m sure God has a greater plan as Bob continues to mentor other pastors. It was an unforgettable week for me to meet seven other guys I would never have met otherwise and to be around a great leader.
Who are the great leaders you see around you? Have you told them? Do you sit at their feet, and do you listen to them? What do you admire about them? What are you asking them that will make you a smarter leader if you know and practice?
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