Power

For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”       Mark 10:45

One of the marks of character, in my opinion, is what one does with power. As a leader, one must exercise power for the benefit of the group being led. If a leader is interested only in maintaining his/her own sense of power and leadership, then that is a weak and short-sighted view of power. The leader who strives to appropriately give away and/or share power is showing foresight and wisdom.

Empowering others by mentoring and teaching, as well as allowing others to practice leadership skills is a sign of wisdom. Leaders do not live forever, and they must prepare those coming after them to take on a leadership mantle.

So, a true test of character often boils down to this question- “what do I do with the power that I have?” Do I use it for the benefit of others, empowering them to become leaders themselves? Or do I hold on to it tightly, fearing that by sharing power I might lose it?

None of us are perfect in answering those questions. Yet, the very act of asking those questions of ourselves is a good test of our leadership ability.

Prayer: Lord, you gave us Jesus as the perfect example of servant leadership and empowering others, Amen