One of the most powerful acts you can make as a church leader is simply to state what you believe. What foundation you stand on.

Even if spoken quietly, words of conviction convict. They rally followers. Anger opponents. (One pastor recently joked that Leadership should devote an issue to the theme, "Convictions & Resumes.")

However, such words of principle work in humble ways, too, bringing calm, stability, and purpose.

These words can't be faked, for each must be something you are willing to sacrifice for. And each must point out the road for followers to take.

I know this sounds lofty, but it has down-to-earth application for a ministry. As you state clearly what you believe about your ministry, you will help the people involved in it.

For example, here are some beliefs I listed for our Leadership team. I include these not because they're the most brilliant examples of stated ministry beliefs but simply the ones I know best. (As a bonus, they give you insight into our work.)

I believe ...