RELEVANT CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

Ego...we all have one.  And it's easy for it to get out of control.  Here are some signs your ego is running the show.

• You constantly bring up your past successes.
• You go with your idea...even when it's not the best one.
• You get defensive when someone questions you or offers a different viewpoint.
• You constantly do things for the approval of others.
• You always have to be right.
• You are constantly comparing yourself to others.
• You always have to "one up" people in a conversation.
• You want to be the center of attention in a group. 

King Saul is an example of a leader who let his ego get of out control.  His ego brought great pain to his own personal life, his family, and those He led.  Eventually it led to his demise.

So how to you keep your ego under control as a leader? 

• Control your thoughts.  Watch for thoughts that are ego based.  Bring them into captivity. (2 Corinthians 10:5)
• Ask yourself what's best for the team...not what's best for you.
• Check your motives.  Are you doing something from the sole desire to promote yourself?
• When engaging in conversation, have the attitude "there you are" instead of "here I am."  Spend more time talking about the other person than about yourself.
• Ask just as many questions as you give answers in meetings.
• Die to yourself daily. (Galatians 2:20) 
• Be Spirit led instead of ego led.  Each morning, yield yourself to the Holy Spirit's control and ask Him to control your thoughts, actions, and attitudes.

John the Baptist is a great example of keeping your ego in check.  When Jesus came on the scene, he could have let his ego get in the way.  But he said, "He must increase and I must decrease."  And Jesus called him the greatest man who ever lived (Luke 7:28).  Notice Jesus gave him that title...he didn't call himself that.

Do you struggle with your ego?  I do and I have a feeling you do as well.  What are some other things you do to keep it in check?  Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.