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Church leaders - we see you.

This very week, many of you are navigating winter storms, canceled services/events and closed offices. Some of you are leading in communities marked by unrest, violence and deep need.

It’s a heavy season. And you’re carrying a lot.

Thank you for serving faithfully when there is disruption, even chaos and heartbreak, and often, no easy answers (yet many opinions and feedback coming at you from multiple directions).

So how do we lead, pastor and communicate well? Here are four anchors ...

1. Be mindful.

There is real hardship all around us. People are juggling a lot. They are weary, and many are carrying heavy burdens. We acknowledge it. We listen. We lead with awareness and compassion.

2. Be prayerful.

Before we lead outwardly, we have to quietly humble ourselves before God. Prayer grounds us, reminds us we are not alone, and invites God’s wisdom and strength into every day and decision.

3. Be rooted in God’s Word.

When circumstances overwhelm us, Scripture reorients us. Passages like Psalms 143 remind us to look beyond what we see and place our hope in God. We read, reflect and surrender.

"I am losing all hope; I am paralyzed with fear." (Psalm 143:4) 

"Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you." (Psalm 143:8) 

4. Lead with the Spirit - and with others.

The Holy Spirit equips us for the next faithful step. We don’t lead alone. We surround ourselves with trusted leaders and pray, as Psalm 133:1 calls us, for unity and harmony.

"How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" (Psalm 133:1) 

Leadership, teaching and communication begins in our own hearts - being mindful, prayerful and grounded in God’s Word. From there, we can lead - with others - humbly, communicate honestly and care well for others.

You may not have all the answers. But you can lead humbly and faithfully. You can point people to Jesus. His grace, love and hope. And in this season, that matters deeply.

Church leader - We’re grateful for you and honored to walk alongside you.

What is your church facing? Fishhook can help you process what’s ahead and partner with you to plan your communications strategy and messaging to help bring clarity, care and unity.