The ascent to a position of power and authority is often perceived as a personal triumph, a testament to one's skills and efforts. However, for those who believe in a divine hand in their journey, such a rise carries a profound spiritual weight. It is a blessing, yes, but also a sacred trust, a stewardship of influence bestowed by God Himself. The question then becomes: how will we wield this power? Will it be used to lift others up, or to tear them down?
The scriptures are filled with examples and admonitions regarding leadership. From the earliest days, God has raised individuals to positions of prominence, not for their self-aggrandizement, but for the betterment of His people. Moses, called from a humble life as a shepherd, was entrusted with leading Israel out of bondage. His leadership, though challenged, was ultimately directed towards the liberation and establishment of a nation. "But the Lord said to him, 'Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.'" (Exodus 4:11-12). God empowered Moses, not for Moses' personal gain, but for the collective good.
The very essence of Christ's leadership modeled humility and service. He, who possessed all authority, chose to stoop and wash the feet of His disciples. "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." (John 13:14-15). This radical act redefined leadership, shifting its focus from being served to serving, from commanding to empowering.
The Apostle Peter echoed this sentiment, instructing elders: "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them, not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." (1 Peter 5:2-3). The purpose of authority, in God's economy, is to nurture, protect, and guide, not to dominate or exploit.
A powerful biblical illustration of this principle is found in the story of Esther. Elevated to the position of Queen of Persia, a seemingly impossible circumstance for a Jewish orphan, she initially hesitated to use her influence to save her people. It was Mordecai who reminded her of her divine appointment: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14). Esther's position of power was not merely for her own comfort or status; it was a strategic placement by God to fulfill a specific purpose, to lift up and protect her people from annihilation.
In the real world, we see both inspiring and cautionary tales of leaders wielding power. Nelson Mandela, imprisoned for decades, emerged to lead South Africa out of apartheid. His leadership was characterized by reconciliation and a commitment to equality, refusing to use his immense authority for vengeance but rather for national healing.
Conversely, history is littered with leaders who abused their power for personal gain, resulting in widespread suffering. Figures like Pol Pot, whose regime in Cambodia led to the deaths of millions, exemplify the devastating consequences of power wielded without a moral compass or accountability. Their reigns serve as stark reminders of the insidious nature of unchecked authority.
The temptation to leverage power for personal advantage is a constant snare. Whether it's consolidating wealth, silencing dissent, or simply maintaining a comfortable status quo at the expense of others, the allure of self-serving leadership is strong. However, Scripture warns against such practices. "Oppressive rulers are like roaring lions and ranging bears." (Proverbs 28:15). God detests those who exploit their position to harm or diminish those under their care.
Every leader, regardless of their sphere of influence, be it in a corporation, a community, a family, or a nation, will one day face an ultimate accounting. "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10). This accountability extends to how we have managed the power and authority entrusted to us. Did we use it to build up, to encourage, to empower, and to bless? Or did we use it to tear down, to discourage, to disempower, and to diminish for personal gain?
God places us in positions of authority for a divine purpose. It is a calling to serve, to uplift, and to be a conduit of His blessings to others. As leaders, we are challenged to regularly check our motives and actions. Are we living out our calling faithfully? Are we wielding our power as an instrument of God's love and justice? Let us remember that God brought us up for a reason, and that reason is to lift others up, not to undermine them. Let us embrace this sacred trust and live out our calling as leaders who truly bless and build.
Exploring life, one thought at a time.
Yours dearly, Rumishael
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