“Let all things be done decently and in order.” —1 Corinthians 14:40
There is beauty in order. There is fruit in clarity. And in the work of leadership—especially the holy work of discipling others into leadership—clarity is not optional. It is essential.
L.E.A.D. With Clarity is a practical framework for cultivating confident, capable leaders through progressive delegation. It’s not merely a to-do list for managers, but a pathway for stewardship. A way of passing on responsibility with wisdom, discernment, and trust.
Why Clarity in Delegation Matters
Confusion is costly. When leaders are vague, teams become hesitant. But when expectations are made plain—when words are chosen carefully and roles are clearly defined—something powerful happens: confidence grows, collaboration flourishes, and leadership multiplies.
This model is rooted in classic theories like the Situational Leadership® Model and echoes voices like Gavin Adams, yet it offers fresh language and deeply practical cues. It is meant not for ivory towers but for living, breathing teams. It is designed for churches, ministries, and organizations committed to seeing their people flourish.
The Four Empowerment Levels at a Glance
Each level pairs authority with ability, and freedom with faithfulness:
Let’s walk through each level together—not as rungs to climb quickly, but as stages to walk prayerfully.
Level 1: Learn
At this first level, the leader must speak plainly and specifically. There is no room for ambiguity here. It is not micromanagement—it is mercy. You are not burdening someone with decisions they’re not ready to make. You are offering them the gift of clarity.
What to say:
“Here’s what I need you to do. Please follow my instructions exactly as given. I’ve already explored the options and know the exact steps I want taken.”
This level is best when the goal is execution, not exploration. It works beautifully with:
- New team members
- Contractors and virtual assistants
- Tasks requiring precision, not interpretation
Clarity here is not restrictive; it is instructive. It builds confidence and sets a foundation for what comes next.
Level 2: Explore
“The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” —Proverbs 18:15
Level 2 is an invitation. You’re no longer handing over just a task—you’re offering an opportunity to think, reason, and grow. The leader still holds the final authority, but the team member begins to stretch their wings.
What to say:
“Here’s what I need you to do. Research the topic, outline the options, and then make a recommendation. Provide the pros and cons of each, and tell me what you think we should do. If I agree with your decision, I’ll authorize you to move forward.”
Use this level when:
- You’re mentoring future leaders
- The task has options, but requires oversight
- You want to delegate thinking, but retain approval
This stage slows you down at first, but speeds up your team’s maturity. You are teaching others to weigh options and present reasoned recommendations—a gift that will multiply in time.
Level 3: Act
At Level 3, the leader shifts from instructor to encourager. The work of discernment now belongs to the team member. Your job is to equip and release. To trust and watch.
What to say:
“Here’s what I need you to do. Make the best decision you can. Take action. Then tell me what you did.” (Optional: “Keep me updated on your progress.”)
This level is best for:
- Trusted contributors
- Projects that don’t need constant check-ins
- Leaders ready for more freedom
You are still informed, but no longer the bottleneck. It is both freeing and stretching—for you and for them.
Level 4: Decide
“The one who is faithful in very little is also faithful in much.” —Luke 16:10
Level 4 is the final step in the delegation journey. It is the place where you, the leader, step fully aside. It is not abandonment—it is an act of full trust. Of saying: “You have shown yourself faithful. Now lead.”
What to say:
“Here’s what I need you to do. Make whatever decision you think is best. There’s no need to report back or tell me what you did.”
Use this level when:
- Trust has been earned through consistency
- The scope is clear and the risks are acceptable
- You’re ready to fully release ownership
This is where leaders multiply. Where capacity expands. Where you no longer have to touch every decision—and that is a very good thing.
A Final Word: Stewarding Responsibility with Wisdom
In ministry and leadership alike, delegation is not about getting things off your plate. It is about discipleship. It is about calling others to walk in wisdom, to grow in responsibility, and to flourish in faithfulness.
The L.E.A.D. With Clarity model helps you do just that. Not hastily, but intentionally. Not recklessly, but prayerfully. And always with the end in mind—not simply tasks completed, but leaders developed.
“Clarity and trust are not opposing forces—they are partners in leadership.”
So lead with both. Speak clearly. Delegate intentionally. And as you do, you may just find that you are building not just a team—but a legacy.