Yes, you read the title correctly and you have every right to think I’m nuts.

Our world is full of chaos and distractions that continually pull us away from what we should be focused on. As individuals we can easily let the everyday chaos pull us away from our time with God, family, the church, and our friends. As a church or organization we can let chaos dictate our vision, principles, and goals when it raises its ugly head. By putting out one fire after another in our personal life and organizations we turn our focus away from the vision and calling God has placed upon us. We eventually become centered on man’s desire instead of God’s.

So how can chaos be a good thing?

1. At some point you and your organization will have enough! You will come to the realization that if you let chaos be in control there will be no control.
2. Chaos can reveal the desire for simplicity. We all desire less choices and boundaries… even if we complain about it. Organizations also thrive with a specific and simplistic message that followers can grasp, relate to, and repeat.
3. Chaos can force you to release leadership and delegate. The more you have on your plate the quicker you realize you are not the Lone Ranger and you begin to equip those around you. The more an organization has on its agenda the quicker its employees/members burnout which leads you back to #2.
4. Chaos can force you and your organization to define itself. Will you and/or your organization be known as the catch all, professional plate spinners, and fire brigade? Or will you begin the painful process of simplicity and learning to say no.
5. Chaos can reveal great leaders. If you survive the painful process of simplification you will find yourself confident in who and what God has called you to be. If your organization survives the simplification process you will lose “leaders” that are content with keeping the peace, mediocrity, and a desire to be needed. It will gain sacrificial and courageous leaders that equip those around them, and are laser focused on a simplistic vision for the organization.

I’m sure this list is not complete and would love to hear your thoughts and additions.