Martin Lighthouse Publishing

Print or Kindle: Now available: Amazon

Sept, 2013 - Feb. 2014 

Now Think On This...and these. Available now from Martin Lighthouse Publishing

These books are available on Amazon.com and from our ministry office. Please see the right hand sidebar for ordering now, in paperback and Kindle e-book editions. As He promised...the light will shine through the darkness.

Steve Martin

Leadership Through Love - now in the hands of the publisher

My third book, entitled "Leadership Through Love", is now in the hands of the publisher. It should be out in printed form and available as an e-book in a few weeks, through Amazon, our Love For His People office and other outlets.

I appreciate those who have endorsed it, and for my son Ben for his great artwork again.

Having worked in the administration realm for over 35 years now, I trust the Lord will use this book to encourage others in leadership, those being led, and anyone else who cares about having good relationships in church, ministry and marketplace office organizations.

Thanks,

Steve Martin
Author


Here are some of the endorsements:

In a rough and tumble world marred by the superficial and the phony, where nothing can be counted on, Steve Martin maps out a straight-line path for Christian organizations. In reality, it's a book on how to steward the factors that too often get side-tracked when navigating a significant call of God. It's a down-to-earth manual of wisdom needed to enable Christian organizations to keep their eye on the big picture, while building a firm foundation to enable it to happen. Steve writes from the stance of one who has served in key administrative roles in a number of key ministries. Every ministry head and administrator will profit from this straight forward operating wisdom.

Morris Ruddick
Entrepreneur, Author, Minister, Consultant and Business Coach

What a great practical book for administration. I have watched Steve oversee several ministries. I know of no better administrator than my friend, Steve Martin. I highly recommend that you read this book.

Dr. Peter Wyns, President, Christians for Messiah Ministries and Pastor of Antioch International Church, grandson of Derek Prince.

Steve - I read your excellent book! I want to share this: I've known Steve now for several years. He's a man of faith and a man of action! Both are desired in true men of God. Steve is a manager - management is something he knows and can help you with. His future may be in ever-expanding ways, but he can help you manage. Read this book intently - honor the Lord by letting it wash over you and help you become the Manager that God intends you to be. And Steve, thanks for the book - thanks for your honesty and openness! Amen and blessing!” 

Robbie Phillips, Founder, Present Word Ministries, Columbia, SC

Every now and then you have the privilege to get to know someone whose character and life radiate honesty, sincerity, loyalty and Christian love.  Steve Martin is that type of person.  I first met Steve at a Messianic conference in Charlotte, NC, in 2007.  One of the things I quickly noticed about Steve was how "approachable" he was.  Even though he was the US Director of an international ministry, he still had time to talk with people at the conference and demonstrated a genuine interest in helping to bring about a network of Believers, as well as area groups and churches, for the purpose of serving the Lord more effectively.  As the years have passed I've come to realize just how deep Steve's roots of love and service for the Lord are. 

It has been exciting to walk with Steve  as he's "stepped out of the boat" and moved ahead with the vision the Lord gave him for LOVE FOR HIS PEOPLE - a ministry that helps connect Believers around the world with the people of Israel.  He is a husband, father and grandfather.  Steve, and his wife Laurie, serve as leaders of the Ahava Love Band, a group of singers and musicians who provide praise and worship at area assemblies.  Whether you call him Messianic, a part of the "one new man", or a "Jewish Rooter", if there's anyone who knows how to demonstrate "Leadership Through Love", it's Steve Martin. 

Curtis Loftin Founder, Beit Yeshua Lincolnton, NC

Just finished reading Steve Martin’s new book, “Leadership Through Love” - Steve’s heart of goodness and faithfulness to His God shines on every page.  Of great importance is the practical hands-on wisdom that comes from actually leading through love, giving integrity to the words that are written.  Steve’s sense of humor always kind of sneaks up on me, and I found myself chuckling so many times at his stories and honest, from-the-heart insights!  It is the mandate of all of us who follow the One called Faithful and True to complete the work that our Father has given us, and Steve’s book will shine the light on how to do just that, whether you are an administrator or leader in the secular marketplace or in volunteer or paid ministry positions.  Loving leadership – a high calling – Steve’s done it, and it shows in this book!

Cathy Hargett, Founder/Director, Highway to Zion Ministries

I had the pleasure of working on an almost daily basis with Steve Martin for many years while he served several Christian ministries. While Steve had the control of whether we worked together, he always made me feel we were working as a team with a common reward in serving God. He enjoyed my family as I did his.  He is intelligent, thoughtful, patient to the extent he could be, a good listener, open to new ideas, joyful and passionate about serving the Lord. The projects may be over long ago but not the bond we hold to this day.

George Payne Write Hand Publishing Andalusia, Alabama

Thanks for the opportunity to read and review this book.  I enjoyed it and thought it had some really great insights.  I wish I had this back in my "corporate" days.  You are a good writer too.  In a world filled with an ever increasing list of ‘how to’ books, Steve Martin has provided one which clearly sets itself apart from the rest.  He presents a concise look at the art/science of management and leadership based not on academia but on real life experiences founded on God’s Word and powered by the Holy Spirit.  Based on his vast personal experiences in leadership, reinforced by insights received from others, Steve provides truly practical instruction in how to lead and manage an effective organization whether it consists of one or one thousand people.  If you are a manager, leader, or hope to one day become one, this book is a must read.  

Dr. Richard E. Tompkins, President, Explore Truth Ministries. SC

Leadership Through Love - Steve Martin (New Book in 2014)

 

Every person serving with a ministry, church, business or in the home has gifts from the Lord to use in that service. If we understand what our gifts are, we can best contribute in the needed work.

I dedicate this book to each of you who are giving yourself in love for His purposes. In this you will find fulfillment and joy, as you serve your fellow man. This indeed pleases our Lord. 

Steve Martin

Founder/President

Love For His People, Inc.

A Few Endorsements

Wow! What a great practical book for administration. I have watched Steve oversee several ministries. I know of no better administrator than my friend, Steve Martin. I highly recommend that you read this book.

Dr. Peter Wyns, President, Christians for Messiah Ministries and Pastor of Antioch International Church. Grandson of Derek Prince.

In a rough and tumble world marred by the superficial and the phony, where nothing can be counted on, Steve Martin maps out a straight-line path for Christian organizations. In reality, it's a book on how to steward the factors that too often get side-tracked when navigating a significant call of God. 

It's a down-to-earth manual of wisdom needed to enable Christian organizations to keep their eye on the big picture, while building a firm foundation to enable it to happen. Steve writes from the stance of one who has served in key administrative roles in a number of key ministries. Every ministry head and administrator will profit from this straight forward operating wisdom.

Morris Ruddick
Entrepreneur, Author, Minister, Consultant and Business Coach


Steve - I read your excellent book! I want to share this: I've known Steve now for several years. He's a man of faith and a man of action! Both are desired in true men of God. Steve is a manager - management is something he knows and can help you with. His future may be in ever-expanding ways, but he can help you manage. Read this book intently - honor the Lord by letting it wash over you and help you become the Manager that God intends you to be. And Steve, thanks for the book - thanks for your honesty and openness! Amen and blessing!”

Robbie Phillips, Founder, Present Word Ministries, Columbia, SC


Every now and then you have the privilege to get to know someone whose character and life radiate honesty, sincerity, loyalty and Christian love. Steve Martin is that type of person. I first met Steve at a Messianic conference in Charlotte, NC, in 2007. One of the things I quickly noticed about Steve was how "approachable" he was. 

Even though he was the US Director of an international ministry, he still had time to talk with people at the conference and demonstrated a genuine interest in helping to bring about a network of Believers, as well as area groups and churches, for the purpose of serving the Lord more effectively. As the years have passed I've come to realize just how deep Steve's roots of love and service for the Lord are.

It has been exciting to walk with Steve as he's "stepped out of the boat" and moved ahead with the vision the Lord gave him for LOVE FOR HIS PEOPLE - a ministry that helps connect Believers around the world with the people of Israel. He is a husband, father and grandfather. 

Steve, and his wife Laurie, serve as leaders of the Ahava Love Band, a group of singers and musicians who provide praise and worship at area assemblies. Whether you call him Messianic, a part of the "one new man", or a "Jewish Rooter", if there's anyone who knows how to demonstrate "Leadership Through Love", it's Steve Martin.

Curtis Loftin, Founder, Beit Yeshua Lincolnton, NC


Just finished reading Steve Martin’s new book, “Leadership Through Love” - Steve’s heart of goodness and faithfulness to His God shines on every page. Of great importance is the practical hands-on wisdom that comes from actually leading through love, giving integrity to the words that are written. Steve’s sense of humor always kind of sneaks up on me, and I found myself chuckling so many times at his stories and honest, from-the-heart insights! 

 It is the mandate of all of us who follow the One called Faithful and True to complete the work that our Father has given us, and Steve’s book will shine the light on how to do just that, whether you are an administrator or leader in the secular marketplace or in volunteer or paid ministry positions. Loving leadership – a high calling – Steve’s done it, and it shows in this book!

Cathy Hargett, Founder/Director, Highway to Zion Ministries


Reading Steve Martin’s new book ‘Leadership through Love’ led me to a tear and a quick repentance. How often we can overlook the journey for the objective - what we do as opposed to who we are. Steve uses his life testimony to shine light on the importance of loving relationship in the workplace. It is good to be reminded of that, in spite of our great visions. The higher we climb in the Kingdom the greater the responsibility and the more numerous the people we need to serve and love. I thoroughly recommend this book to all in business and ministry. Thank you Steve for reminding me to love the people I work with.

Martin Powell, Kingdom Talents, Owner

I had the pleasure of working on an almost daily basis with Steve Martin for many years while he served several Christian ministries. While Steve had the control of whether we worked together, he always made me feel we were working as a team with a common reward in serving God. He enjoyed my family as I did his. He is intelligent, thoughtful, patient to the extent he could be, a good listener, open to new ideas, joyful and passionate about serving the Lord. The projects may be over long ago but not the bond we hold to this day.

George Payne Write Hand Publishing Andalusia, Alabama


Thanks for the opportunity to read and review this book. I enjoyed it and thought it had some really great insights. I wish I had this back in my "corporate" days. You are a good writer too. In a world filled with an ever increasing list of ‘how to’ books, Steve Martin has provided one which clearly sets itself apart from the rest. He presents a concise look at the art/science of management and leadership based not on academia but on real life experiences founded on God’s Word and powered by the Holy Spirit. 

Based on his vast personal experiences in leadership, reinforced by insights received from others, Steve provides truly practical instruction in how to lead and manage an effective organization whether it consists of one or one thousand people. If you are a manager, leader, or hope to one day become one, this book is a must read.

Dr. Richard E. Tompkins, President, Explore Truth Ministries. SC


My third book is coming in February 2014. 

Hope you get it! 

Steve Martin

Leadership Through Love (Chapter 12) - "Another Man’s Vineyard (…and now my own.)" - Steve Martin

Editor's Note: This is the final chapter of my book, "Leadership Through Love." If you have missed any of the previous chapters, you can search this blog using the Search box in the top right hand corner, inserting "Leadership Through Love." 

I hope you gain useful insights for yourself from reading this chapter, and all previous ones.

Shalom, with continued blessings on ye head.

Steve Martin

Chapter 12

Another Man’s Vineyard

(…and now my own.)

-          Follow & help fulfill their vision

-          Faithful with another’s

-          Learn and growth until your time

-          The proper way of moving on

For 23 years I served as the Administrator or Director of Operations & Finance for three different ministries, doing that which I knew to do. Together with the leaders of those respective ministries, we laid foundations and established further the “vineyard” that the Lord had entrusted to the founders.

As a vital part of the work, being faithful in adding to the building and the ongoing structure, it did enable me to do my part in seeing the work of the Lord done. The Lord was glorified, people were “built up” in the faith, buildings were restored and placed into the work of the kingdom, and the living spiritual vineyard produced lasting fruit.

My heart was given to the Lord through these ministries, but as time passed, there were things the Lord had been calling me to do, which my heart’s cry was to see them fulfilled. Beginning with what He had put in my heart, even as a young child, to be a missionary and take the gospel to the nations, and with ongoing prophetic words, the desire to have my own vineyard grew evermore present.

My natural gifts, which to me are an expression of the spiritual gifts He had given me, were in administration, accounting and general management of inventories, staff and daily tasks, but my heart so longed to “not sit behind a desk 40 hours a week”, but to travel and take His love beyond the local setting. Often I expressed that desire to those I was under, and to fellow workers. At times the desire was so intense, and I repeatedly asked the Lord when I would be delivered from the desk job to something that I knew for me was more.

During this time, the ongoing struggle to be faithful with the daily tasks, while at the same time praying and yearning for the adventurous tasks, was very difficult. Trying to keep focused on the maintenance of the ministry, when I wanted so much to be in the movement of the ministry, reminded me of Joseph in prison. He was in the Lord’s will I am sure, and yet the constant waiting of when that time would be over and he would be out of prison was something I could very much relate to.

At times I was even resentful of those who had the opportunities to go, while I stayed home and manned the fort. When I would hear them speak of the strain of travel and that type of ministry, my silent response was, “Then you stay and let me go instead”, but it never happened. I didn’t want to have the inner struggle of believing the grass is greener on the other side, but I honestly longed for the opportunities to travel in ministry.

Even more discouraging during the years when I was the administrator of one ministry where the leaders were often traveling, people would ask me if I went along to the distant lands and people. I had to respond “No.” It was hard to continue convincing myself that this was the place the Lord has for me, and I needed to be fulfilled in doing what I had been given to do. My job was to take care of the office and staff, while it was their job to go.

After many years of this struggle, I finally had to do something, and so asked if I could at least go once a year on an international trip with them. When the response came back as no, then to keep my having the ache of the heart continue, I gave my resignation notice, and began looking for the next position I believed the Lord would give me.

So what do you do as the administrator, or key person in an organization, and though you are good at what you are doing, your heart is just no longer in it? For me, I knew I had to move on. Otherwise my attitude would have become very bitter, and I would have brought harm to the ministry, rather than being a constructive part of the work.

When you are faced with this decision, the Lord will give you the proper way to leave a situation. In the times when I left two business and three ministry positions, He had generally given me a year’s notice prior to the course change up ahead. In my desire to then bless those whom I was leaving, I gave a three to six month notice, in order for them to find the right replacement and have training done for my position.

Even when I didn’t have another position lined up, the Lord honored my commitment I had with current leadership, to not leave them in a precarious place in their own work. And for each of these five job changes, He had brought a good replacement person for the work, and then led me to the next place that I was needed at.

There is always a proper way to leave one situation for another. As hard as change can be, and yet necessary, the Lord will reveal His plan if asked, and if each party is open to listening. I am thankful that that has happened in each case for me. I believe my honesty and faithfulness throughout the years at the job was a key factor in how the leadership blessed me in my leaving, and how I had blessed them.

During the transition time, the company or ministry had time to find another person to take my place. On two occasions I was able to recommend an assistant whom I had trained properly, and so the transition went very smooth. On two other occasions I recommended those I knew who had the skills to take over as I was leaving. They were hired, based on my recommendation.

I in turn had time to prepare my family, and to search for the next location of employment. Knowing that indeed it is true, “For I know the plans I have for you", says the Lord, "plans for welfare and not for calamity”, gave me confidence that I was hearing the Lord during this transition, and that He was going to direct my steps.  Even when I didn’t have the next position in place at the time of my resignation notices, my faith in the Lord’s provision was constant. He had proven Himself trustworthy to me, and thus I was able to put my trust in Him.

And Now My Own

On November 23, 2009, on my 55^th birthday, I gave my resignation notice to the president and founder of the third ministry I had then served with, after a period of five years with them. This decision was based on several factors, including the first being that of the Lord, having put a desire in my heart, since I was ten years of age, to go to the nations. 

Several prophetic words had also been received over those many years, which brought encouragement and built up my faith. I knew the time had come to step out and start my “own vineyard”. 

So began the new ministry of “Love For His People, Inc.”  Along with other believers, we  primarily seek to bless the people of Israel with support, encouragement, and humanitarian aid. You can view our full website: www.loveforhispeople.org

It was, and continues to be, a time of needed faith, mindful that my trust rests on solid ground - the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.

As a final thought, keep your eyes fixed on the Lord in all situations, and you will see Him direct your steps into His full purposes for you. I for one can testify of His faithfulness and His provision in all.

Carry on!

Steve Martin
Founder/President
Love For His People, Inc.

Love For His People, Inc. is a charitable, not-for-profit USA organization. Fed. ID#27-1633858.  Tax deductible contributions receive a receipt for each donation.

Love For His People, Inc. truly appreciates your generous support. Please consider sending a monthly charitable gift of $5-$25 each month to help us bless Israel. 

You can bless this ministry work now, through: Online PayPal gifts

You can also send checks to the address below. Todah rabah! (Hebrew - Thank you very much.)

©2013 Steve Martin      Love For His People, Inc.  12120 Woodside Falls Rd. Pineville, NC 28134      

E-mail: loveforhispeople@gmail.com 

Facebook pages: Steve Martin  and  Love For His People       

Twitter: martinlighthous, LovingHisPeople and ahavaloveletter 

Blog: http://loveforhispeople.blogspot.com         

Full website: www.loveforhispeople.org

YouTube: Steve Martin (loveforhispeopleinc)

Note: To read the Intro, Chapter Listings and first 11 chapters, please use the Search Box in the top right hand corner of this Blog. Enter "Leadership Through Love." Be blessed in your reading!

Leadership Through Love

Chapter Listings

1.      A Gift for His Purposes

- The Early Years

- On the job training

2.      Use the Tools You Have, But Not the Staff

- Treasure the people, while digging the foundations

- Do unto them as you would…

- Bless and curse not: honor those who serve with you

3.      Right Man (or Woman!) for the Job

- All are created equal – make the most of this!

- If the Shoe Fits, Have Them Wear It

4.      Train and Let Loose

- It IS Who You Know and Are Known By

- Hire To Complement Your Strengths

- if you are weak, then they are strong

- Outsource as needed

5.      Burn Candles At Both Ends? – NOT!

- Rest and Sabbath Days

- Mornings with the Lord

- Trust in Him at all times

- We all are given 24 hours each day

6.       The Visionaries Need You!

-          They dream it - you make it happen

-          It takes a team

-          Head Won’t Get Far without the Neck

(or heads will roll)

  

7.      Field Trips and More!

- Staff Retreats

- Party Time!

- Birthdays and BBQs

- After Hours

8.      It Doesn’t All Depend On You

- The Lord is the Rock – Not You

- Whose strength  - yours or His?

   - Key Staff to Lean On

    - Trustworthy managers and assistants

9.      Practically Speaking…and Walking

- Handle each piece of paper once

- File so you can find it!

- Early morning – before the others come

- Take a Break

10.  Meetings – Time-manger or Time-waster?

- Do you really need all those meetings?

- Group or One-On-One?

- Why Morning and Mid-Week?

 - Prov. 24:6 “By wise counsel…multitude of counselors

11.  Acknowledge Him in All Your Ways

- Heart of Thankfulness

- Heart of Worship

- Heart of Service

12.  Another Man’s Vineyard

-          Follow & help fulfill their vision

-          Faithful with another’s

-          Learn and growth until your time

-          The proper way of moving on

Leadership Through Love (Chapter 11) - "Acknowledge Him in All Your Ways" - Steve Martin

Chapter 11

Acknowledge Him in All Your Ways

   - Heart of Thankfulness

   - Heart of Worship

   - Heart of Service

The very first verse I ever memorized that I can remember was Psalm 37:4,5 “Have your delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desire of your heart. Trust also in Him, and He will do it.” (NAS) That was in my teen years, before the “work” years began.

After 27 years of administration work, I can truthfully and gratefully acknowledge that if it hadn’t been for the Lord’s encouragement, guidance, provision, patience and persistence working in my life through His grace, I would have quit ministry service a long time ago. Administrators and staff serving in key roles need to depend on Him in all that they set out to do. The road is not easy, and our spirits, souls and bodies need His constant input to refresh, revitalize, and direct our daily steps.

Ministry and church administration, though it has the eternal rewards promised to all faithful servants, is certainly not the “field of green” that many expect it is. As in any work of the Lord, there are additional pressures that one confronts knowingly and unknowingly throughout the week. The enemy of the soul seems to work overtime to discourage, steal and destroy the families and staff of committed laborers. Those at the “top of the staff rosters” are generally the first target.

Having raised a family of four with my wife Laurie, we have experienced the results of the enemy’s efforts to get us off course. Often he will work through our children, to try and have us question the protection and watch care the Lord promises.

Over those growing decades, four cars were totaled in the early driving years of our three oldest kids. That certainly tested our faith. The three trips to bail two out of jail, on separate other occasions, even more so caused us to seek the Lord for His wisdom and counsel. Our home lives do have the spiritual pressure bearing down on us, as we attempt to be the “examples” of leadership in the church and ministry settings.

To acknowledge the ongoing reliance on the Lord’s protection and provision are continually needed to press forward, to see His kingdom come and His will done. One prophetic word spoken over me, that I didn’t realize until I heard it only recently, was that the Lord has His protection over and around me. One may take that for granted, which I did, but when it came through my ears and settled into my heart, my gratitude for the Lord increased. That spoken word continues to give me the faith to push forward in those areas of building and growth that I have been called to do. Knowing my “back” and forward progress is protected gives me the courage to press on, which also includes my family.

To help sustain this awareness of the Lord’s presence, it has become my habit to spend a quiet time each day with the Lord, as I wrote in an earlier chapter. I need to thank my mother, Lila Martin Parker, for her excellent example set early in my childhood. As a kid growing up in Cedar falls, Iowa, I noticed her take time out at the beginning of the day to read the Word, listen to her praise albums on the stereo phonograph player, and pray. To this day, this practice in my life has been ongoing (except maybe not on Saturdays and Sundays, when I commit my day to the Lord in others ways.)

Prayer chair

Developing a thankful heart as a leader, by thanking the Lord for the opportunities He gives in service as a leader, allows me to realize just what all He does. When a situation arises that could cause grave concern or another headache, my first reaction has often been to say quietly to the Lord, “Thank you Lord.” To speak blessing instead of cursing, when the temptation is great to do otherwise in any situation, causes the matter to be handled with a more godly response.

When I lay my head down to sleep, as it hits the pillow, I have made it a habit to say “Thank you Lord.”

Leading worship in gatherings has been one of my greatest joys. One of my favorite songs is one sung by Don Moen (Integrity Music) entitled “Thank You Lord”. When I would lead that song at the beginning of a praise and worship service, the atmosphere is charged with people’s hearts giving thanks to the Lord right from the start. Cares and concerns seem to diminish as each acknowledges his dependence on the goodness of the Lord, and thanking Him for his blessings.

Being an avid reader, I have found time spent reading books on the faith of saints who have preceded us builds a thankful heart in me. That in turn assists me in encouraging others on staff in their faith, by them seeing and hearing of my thankful heart.

I remember one situation in the ministry office that certainly needed a spoken word of thanks, so that something else would not have come forth. It seems that in the building we had purchased a few years early, that when the back parking lot was laid, the sewer line was not given the proper degree of angle needed for outward flow. Over the years, as the weight of the earth above it sifted and sunk, it put pressure on the line at one end, causing the line to push up at the wrong end. Thus the water flow ceased flowing. At least in the right direction!

When the backed up mess ended up in two lower level offices, you can imagine the consternation that ensued. If the Lord hadn’t developed a thankful heart in me, I would have reacted as one would have expected, along with the occupants of those rooms. But instead, I was able to track down a plumber to start the proper course of action, and in the meantime, got out the wet vac and started doing the necessity work. No fun for sure, but at least I wasn’t grumbling to high heaven.

Another time, at a previous administrator position, a swimming pool that came with the leased property had to have the annual cleaning after winter was over. Having grown up going to the pool three times a day in my young grade school years, I had grown basically tired of swimming and water, and anything related to it. This brought me no joy. And then especially when the pool covering had fallen half in, during the eight months of not doing its job. Of course, every tree leaf, twig, dead mice and other creatures who couldn’t swim found their way to this part of the property.

After sucking out the totally polluted water, and shoveling out the extra terrestrial creatures and creation as listed above, hours later I was able to give some thanks –that the job was over! Through tasks like this, by doing things we normally detest, our hearts are given the opportunity to serve others, and develop thankfulness. It also helps us to grown in further appreciation for those who the Lord surrounds us with who help us in times a need, who do tasks and chores that aren’t at all pleasant, but need to get done.

Art Maki, a long time friend of over 26 years, has most often been that special one in our lives, and the others he blesses daily with his service. As Art will say every time one is with him, “Jesus loves you, and so do the Makis”, to remind each of the Lord’s love and care, for which we owe much thanks. Thank you Art!

Steve Martin
Founder/President
Love For His People, Inc.

Love For His People, Inc. is a charitable, not-for-profit USA organization. Fed. ID#27-1633858.  Tax deductible contributions receive a receipt for each donation.

Love For His People, Inc. truly appreciates your generous support. Please consider sending a monthly charitable gift of $5-$25 each month to help us bless Israel. 

You can bless this ministry work now, through: Online PayPal gifts

You can also send checks to the address below. Todah rabah! (Hebrew - Thank you very much.)

©2013 Steve Martin      Love For His People, Inc.  12120 Woodside Falls Rd. Pineville, NC 28134      

E-mail: loveforhispeople@gmail.com 

Facebook pages: Steve Martin  and  Love For His People       

Twitter: martinlighthous, LovingHisPeople and ahavaloveletter 

Blog: http://loveforhispeople.blogspot.com         

Full website: www.loveforhispeople.org

YouTube: Steve Martin (loveforhispeopleinc)

Note: To read the Intro, Chapter Listings and first 10 chapters, please use the Search Box in the top right hand corner of this Blog, and enter "Leadership Through Love." Be blessed in your reading!

Leadership Through Love

Chapter Listings

1.      A Gift for His Purposes

- The Early Years

- On the job training

2.      Use the Tools You Have, But Not the Staff

- Treasure the people, while digging the foundations

- Do unto them as you would…

- Bless and curse not: honor those who serve with you

3.      Right Man (or Woman!) for the Job

- All are created equal – make the most of this!

- If the Shoe Fits, Have Them Wear It

4.      Train and Let Loose

- It IS Who You Know and Are Known By

- Hire To Complement Your Strengths

- if you are weak, then they are strong

- Outsource as needed

5.      Burn Candles At Both Ends? – NOT!

- Rest and Sabbath Days

- Mornings with the Lord

- Trust in Him at all times

- We all are given 24 hours each day

6.       The Visionaries Need You!

-          They dream it - you make it happen

-          It takes a team

-          Head Won’t Get Far without the Neck

(or heads will roll)

  

7.      Field Trips and More!

- Staff Retreats

- Party Time!

- Birthdays and BBQs

- After Hours

8.      It Doesn’t All Depend On You

- The Lord is the Rock – Not You

- Whose strength  - yours or His?

   - Key Staff to Lean On

    - Trustworthy managers and assistants

9.      Practically Speaking…and Walking

- Handle each piece of paper once

- File so you can find it!

- Early morning – before the others come

- Take a Break

10.  Meetings – Time-manger or Time-waster?

- Do you really need all those meetings?

- Group or One-On-One?

- Why Morning and Mid-Week?

 - Prov. 24:6 “By wise counsel…multitude of counselors

11.  Acknowledge Him in All Your Ways

- Heart of Thankfulness

- Heart of Worship

- Heart of Service

12.  Another Man’s Vineyard

-          Follow & help fulfill their vision

-          Faithful with another’s

-          Learn and growth until your time

-          The proper way of moving on

Leadership Through Love - (Chapter 10) "Meetings – Time Manager or Time Waster?" (Steve Martin)

Chapter 10

Meetings – Time Manager or Time Waster?

- Do you really need all those meetings?
- Group or One-On-One?
- Why morning and mid-week?
- Prov. 24:6 “By wise counsel…multitude of counselors"

As the administrator, office manager, administrative assistant, or leader of any size group, have you ever thought of how many hours you have spent in administrative meetings with more than two people? I am sure I have spent more time in meetings than was really necessary.

There are some leaders who just love meetings. They met to discuss the day, the week, the month, the year, and then meet next week to do the same thing. Seems at times that there is more “talk” than “walk”, as meetings consume our time. Though we think we are wisely planning, we may in reality be wasting each others time.

I am not a “meeting” person. (Bet you couldn’t tell!) When given the option of meeting in a larger group, I have more often chosen to communicate one on one than having a group sit around a rectangular board room table talk about things that were talked about last time, and nothing much has happened in between.

Being one who enjoys history, and reading of leaders and their habits, it seems to me that the “modern” executive or leader in the office setting has swung the pendulum too far to the “MEETING” side in communicating. Of course we don’t have all the minutes and details of communications from ages gone by, but I would have to think that more was done “outside of the meeting room” than what occurred within.

Meetings do have a purpose. When discussions need to involve more than two people, due to the responsibilities of each, then of course meetings are necessary. There are certain criteria that I have followed which has helped me in having a good meeting when it was needed.

The first criteria I have had in place is to set the beginning and the ending time of the meeting, so there is no needless dragging on and endless talk, leading nowhere. If you give people more than hour for a meeting, you can almost be assured that they will let the time fill up as allowed.

Most meetings can be accomplished in a half hour. The one calling the meeting needs to have some discussion topics sent to each one coming to the meeting ahead of time. Then each one can gather their thoughts and give them at the appropriate time. Time allowed for discussion between individuals needs to included in the meeting timeline.

As people become accustomed to the shorten time frame, the dialogue is more kept to the topic and thus unnecessary talk is limited. With each knowing ahead of time what will be covered, they had time prior to the gathering to formulate their input, rather than attempting to do it during the time together.

Morning meetings are more preferred than the afternoon time, especially avoided the time right after lunch. Peoples minds are more alert in the mid-morning time than the mid-afternoon. And do you know one of the rather unexpected results of shorter , morning meetings? Drowsiness is curtailed to a minimum! (I had been known to “dream prophetic dreams” during long, boring meetings, especially in the afternoon!)

I also believe that a mid-week meeting is more productive than certainly a Monday or Friday meeting. Weekends, meant to be a “break” for most workers, has now become two of the most busy days in the lives of the typical worker, and thus the weekend off is taking more of a toll on people. No Sabbath time for the typical worker these days is taking its predicted cost. Even many Christians, and especially the administrators and assistants in the church positions, are especially taxed over the weekend, with the one Sunday, and often two, church meetings, and other church gatherings that typically take place on the Saturday or Sunday “day off”..

One on one times with individual staff members not only gets more accomplished with the quality time, but the staff member has more of an opportunity to share their real thoughts, desires, and feedback more honestly. Without the pressure of having to, or wanting to, impress co-workers in a group meeting, they can express their thoughts and feelings more directly to their supervisor. It also prevents the one or two dominant personalities from overtaking a meeting.

Proverbs 24:6 states “By wise counsel…in the multitude of counselors.” I apply this verse not only in my spiritual life, but also in the business of ministry. Surrounding yourself with good staff, who have different gifts and skills than what you as the administrator has, not only makes good business sense, but also lets you hear the mind of the Lord when needing to make those everyday, and also critical decisions.

Steve Martin
Founder/President
Love For His People, Inc.

Love For His People, Inc. is a charitable, not-for-profit USA organization. Fed. ID#27-1633858.  Tax deductible contributions receive a receipt for each donation.

Love For His People, Inc. truly appreciates your generous support. Please consider sending a monthly charitable gift of $5-$25 each month to help us bless Israel. 

You can bless this ministry work now, through: Online PayPal gifts

You can also send checks to the address below. Todah rabah! (Hebrew - Thank you very much.)

©2013 Steve Martin      Love For His People, Inc.  12120 Woodside Falls Rd. Pineville, NC 28134      

E-mail: loveforhispeople@gmail.com 

Facebook pages: Steve Martin  and  Love For His People       

Twitter: martinlighthous, LovingHisPeople and ahavaloveletter 

Blog: http://loveforhispeople.blogspot.com         

Full website: www.loveforhispeople.org

YouTube: Steve Martin (loveforhispeopleinc)

Note: To read the Intro, Chapter Listings and first nine chapters, please use the Search Box in the top right hand corner of this Blog, and enter "Leadership Through Love." Be blessed in your reading!

Leadership Through Love

Chapter Listings

1.      A Gift for His Purposes

- The Early Years

- On the job training

2.      Use the Tools You Have, But Not the Staff

- Treasure the people, while digging the foundations

- Do unto them as you would…

- Bless and curse not: honor those who serve with you

3.      Right Man (or Woman!) for the Job

- All are created equal – make the most of this!

- If the Shoe Fits, Have Them Wear It

4.      Train and Let Loose

- It IS Who You Know and Are Known By

- Hire To Complement Your Strengths

- if you are weak, then they are strong

- Outsource as needed

5.      Burn Candles At Both Ends? – NOT!

- Rest and Sabbath Days

- Mornings with the Lord

- Trust in Him at all times

- We all are given 24 hours each day

6.       The Visionaries Need You!

-          They dream it - you make it happen

-          It takes a team

-          Head Won’t Get Far without the Neck

(or heads will roll)

  

7.      Field Trips and More!

- Staff Retreats

- Party Time!

- Birthdays and BBQs

- After Hours

8.      It Doesn’t All Depend On You

- The Lord is the Rock – Not You

- Whose strength  - yours or His?

   - Key Staff to Lean On

    - Trustworthy managers and assistants

9.      Practically Speaking…and Walking

- Handle each piece of paper once

- File so you can find it!

- Early morning – before the others come

- Take a Break

10.  Meetings – Time-manger or Time-waster?

- Do you really need all those meetings?

- Group or One-On-One?

- Why Morning and Mid-Week?

 - Prov. 24:6 “By wise counsel…multitude of counselors

11.  Acknowledge Him in All Your Ways

- Heart of Thankfulness

- Heart of Worship

- Heart of Service

12.  Another Man’s Vineyard

-          Follow & help fulfill their vision

-          Faithful with another’s

-          Learn and growth until your time

-          The proper way of moving on