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Digital Leadership

It’s Still About Character

We’re in the middle of most rapid and wide-ranging organizational change process I’ve ever been a part of. Many find this exciting. Outsiders and friends in the industry have said to me, “Finally. You should have done this months ago.” Some are feeling displaced and angry. Others quietly express concerns.

change_aheadWe’re in the middle of the most rapid and wide-ranging organizational change process I’ve ever been a part of. One month ago we merged several different technology and digital teams into a single Global Digital Strategies entity. If the early wins are any indication, we’re in for a great future together.

Many find this exciting. Outsiders and friends in the industry have said to me, “Finally. You should have done this months ago.” Some are feeling displaced and angry. Others quietly express concerns.


A colleague listened to me recount some of the challenges and criticism my team and I have endured. Then he posed these unexpected questions:
  • Can my character handle the extent and scope of the ministry God wants to give me?
  • How do I deal with personal attacks?
  • What about attacks on the team?
  • How do I handle criticism from the casually uninformed?
  • What about resisters who are convinced we have made a terrible mistake and must return to Egypt?
  • Will others find me defensive, proud, and pugnacious? Or will they encounter love, patience, grace, and authentic spiritual leadership?
Often Christian leaders fail because they have been too successful, it has gone to their head, then seeped down into their heart. Each conversation is part of the journey God wants me to experience. Some people may not get this for a year, or two years, or ever. How I respond to others is the key. I can’t control the outcomes, but with the Spirit’s power I can control my responses.

Leadership is still about character.

By Ken

Dr. Ken Cochrum (DMin, Bethel University) is Vice President of Global Digital Strategies at Cru (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ) in Orlando, Florida. An avid cyclist and aspiring guitarist, he also holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Texas and a Masters of Arts in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary. He recently co-founded Indigitous.org, a movement passionate about connecting people to Jesus using digital strategies. He previously served as vice president of Cru’s student-led movements worldwide. He and his wife Ann spent 13 years in East Asia where they raised their two children. Ken blogs regularly at www.onleadingwell.com.

6 replies on “It’s Still About Character”

Nice. Your headline gets to the heart of the matter. Grace to you and all as we move forward.

Well written and words I’ll tuck away for seasons of felt need. Thanks for sharing, growing hearts, as you do.

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