We had a training the other day by some top execs at Chic-fil-a. They had visited a bunch of great organizations in order to observe and learn from all of them. The three they talked to us about were the Boston Red Sox, Zappos, and Travel Counsellors.
All were impressive companies. All made me think about how to be more effective.
But…I’ve got to say…one comment is still rattling around in my head.
The owner of Zappos says
“Never put results over relationships”
I totally agreed.
Makes complete sense.
Sounds like something I would say.
In ministry it makes total sense…right?
And then he blew my mind.
He said the second rule (as important as the first).
“Never put relationships over results.”
I stumbled mentally…
thought a minute…
and then got frustrated with myself.
Why is it we automatically think it’s an “either or” issue?
Either Outsider or insider?
Either Reach the lost or equip the saints?
Either expository or practical?
Either Christian books or business books?
Either guacamole or sour cream?
Seriously though…How about these?
Either truth or grace?
Either “Love the Lord your God” or “Love your neighbor”?
I think Zappos is on to something?
I’ve started to pause when people ask me “either or” questions….
This is such a great principle. I’ve seen this played out where people lost their vision for fear of losing a relationship…even though the vision was God-given. Great reminder for us.
Thanks Ron,
I appreciate you reading.
Shef
I use to be an either/or person and I can honestly say that embracing both/and has had an huge impact on my life. The areas I still struggle with the either/or thinking is theological areas. Now I’m well aware that there is a difference between truth and error but not everything is as cut and dry as I still try to make it sometimes. Thankfully this struggle only goes on in my head and doesn’t come out of my mouth.
Great post! Thanks for getting my wheels turning.
Thanks Jason,
good to hear from you again. Theology is definitely where I see this most. Sometimes it’s good for sure in that world…sometimes…not so much.
Shef
The navigation of relationships and results is what makes ministry great, messy, rewarding and worthwhile. Love your thoughts. They pair up with amazingly with the pinball thoughts bouncing around my head recently! I was just checking out Proverbs 14:4 this morning that points in this direction too. Great post.
Thanks Dennis,
definitely makes things messy. No doubt.
Shef