How do you create a team of trusted advisers?
Discussion question for February 3, 2012.
It is important to have people you trust that can speak into your life and offer confirmation to what you hear from the Lord. Where can you begin your search for qualified advisers? What key characteristics are you looking for? How should you go about inviting someone to the role of trusted adviser? What should you do to maintain vital relationships with them?
Here’s my summary of our discussion.
There are several biblical models of trusted advisors, each of which have something to teach us about how to operate with trusted advisors today. There were prophets (Elisha), priests (Samuel), judges (Deborah), and elders at the city gates (Job). Moses was a priest and prophet, acting as judge for all of Israel until his father-in-law encouraged him to assign tasks to other respected leaders as they were able (over tens, hundreds, and thousands). There were also the special anointed ones such as Daniel, Joseph and Nehemiah.
Finding trusted advisors is a task that each person should take on personally. We can trust that God will bring the right person along by our request, and we need to remember to ask. It is also important that we recognize them for who they are, which might mean we recognize their specific gift of area of expertise. Not all advisors can speak authoritatively on all subjects, but may have very valuable things to say about an area of passion.
The qualifications for elder, as outlined in 1 Timothy 3, is a good place to start. Mature believers that are not subject to addictions and have demonstrated wisdom and self control in their lifestyle are likely candidates. These qualifications are for elders that can care for a community. It is important to establish relationship with them so you have confidence in their ability to hear from God, and they have freedom to speak into your life.
It is vital that your trusted advisor be led by the Holy Spirit. You want to trust them to tell you what the Lord thinks, not just what they think. They will demonstrate humility in how they answer your question. Living in this kind of relationship with others helps keep you and them sharp. In a way, it’s Hebrews 10:24 in action: “spurring one another on.”
Maintaining relationships with elders, mentors, and advisors is easier now than ever before. Not only should you take advantage of every fellowship opportunity, but communicating by phone, email and other methods are important. Social media plays a non-intrusive role in keeping people in mind, and remaining in their mind. None of these tools are sufficient by themselves, but in an organized fashion they can move a large number of relationships forward.
Close friendships and peer relationships are the best, and should be highly valued. Acquaintances and casual friends can bring variety and interesting combinations of gifts and insights. Your best thinking strategy will combine all the resources God gives you so you can move confidently in His ways.