Staff Behavioral Values

How Are They Different?

While church values shape the overall culture and priorities of the church body, staff behavioral values define the expected attitudes and conduct of those leading and serving in vocational ministry. These are internal guidelines that build trust, reinforce professionalism, and create a healthy, Gospel-centered workplace.

Why Staff Behavioral Values Matter

1. Model Christlikeness – Staff set the example in speech, attitude, and service.
2. Cultivate Health – A team’s health impacts the church’s health.
3. Promote Accountability – Behavioral values provide a standard for evaluation and correction.
4. Protect Unity – They prevent dysfunction by clarifying expectations up front.
5. Foster Joyful Work – Shared values make collaboration more fulfilling and effective.

20 Sample Staff Behavioral Values

These can be framed around your unique team culture but should always reflect biblical character:

1. We assume the best about each other.
2. We honor our commitments and follow through.
3. We speak truthfully, directly, and graciously.
4. We pray together and for each other regularly.
5. We lead from spiritual overflow, not burnout.
6. We own our mistakes and grow from them.
7. We are quick to forgive and quick to repent.
8. We show up prepared, on time, and present.
9. We protect margin and model Sabbath rest.
10. We don’t gossip—we go directly to the person.
11. We celebrate each other’s wins.
12. We speak well of leadership in public and private.
13. We give and receive feedback with humility.
14. We pursue excellence, not perfectionism.
15. We stay solution-focused, not problem-centered.
16. We protect family time and boundaries.
17. We serve beyond our roles when needed.
18. We ask for help before we burn out.
19. We stay teachable and never stop learning.
20. We laugh often and enjoy ministry together.

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Final Thoughts

When values are just words on a wall, they do nothing. But when they’re lived, taught, and celebrated, values can transform both the congregation and the team. Churches with clarity around both congregational values and staff behavioral values are positioned to thrive in health, unity, and mission.