(Something strange is going on. Here lately I've been given the opportunity to review a few books by some well known Christian leaders. Reviewing books is new to me, but I'm enjoying getting to read some really good books!)

Just got through reading "Steering Through Chaos" by Scott Wilson...

I don't know Scott Wilson personally but his writing style is down to earth. He is simple and yet has a grasp on the deeper issues of leadership and discipleship. I genuinely enjoyed the book and would recommend it to anyone out there that is looking for some help in church leadership. I am very familiar with Scott and the Oaks Church and have heard him speak at the Leadership Conference hosted by Gerald Brooks. Scott quotes a familiar quote by Gerald, "You will only grow to the level of your pain threshold." It's a great quote and so true.

One of my favorite topics in the book is Scott's desire to have complete honesty among his staff. His "Honesty Policy" is definitely worth a look into. Scott takes turns going up to each person he has on staff and making sure that everything is out in the air. I love it. Scott says that, "During times of relational tension, people are usually willing to say 90% of what they need to say, but they feel very uncomfortable with the last 10%. This part has the most potential for hurt, but also holds the most potential for genuine change." So true!

Another area that seemed very relationally true to me is found in Chapter 6, under "New Strategies" where Scott writes, "Every member of a church's leadership team needs to carve out time to pray, think, and dream so they can clearly identify the opportunities God has given them." The statement that precursors this explains why, "Far too often leaders fail to see opportunities because we're blinded by the urgent, nagging problems right in front of us."

Scott gives an honest insight and look into principles that has set up the Oaks Church to be one of the biggest churches in the nation. This book provides a great foundation of leadership principles and will open your eyes to a few new ones. My overall view was that the book was extremely helpful. I will most definitely be trying out some of its principles and platforms in the church where I pastor.

Thanks for putting it on paper, Scott. Great work!