Our world craves good leaders. We are looking for them in politics, business, education – everywhere… even in ministry. We long for people who will effectively lead while facing the overwhelming challenges of our day. The problem however, doesn’t seem to be the shortage of willing leaders, rather a shortage of capable godly leaders.

Through the Healthy Leadership series I would like to take a more in-depth look at aspects of healthy leadership. I pray these ideas will encourage and shape you as you lead!

If you want to measure a person’s character, grant them power.

The temptation of power can be very enticing for any leader. As author Henri Nouwen says, “Every time we see a major crisis in the history of the church we always see power being misused by those who claim to be followers of the poor and powerless Jesus.” [1]

The devil wants nothing more than to distract godly leaders. Much like he did with Jesus in the desert, he offers the enticement of possessions and control through the temptation of power (Matthew 4:8-9). He knows we are power hungry humans that can easily fall prey to his ways. As ministry leaders we must be vigilant and watchful. To begin, we need to understand when power is most tempting. Below are three occasions when power can lure us.

Power is a temptation when…

1. We feel inadequate.

As ministry leaders we are often guilty of feeling like we fall short, like we can’t measure up to others’ expectations. We compare ourselves to other leaders, bringing shame and the sense of inadequacy. In such a situation, the temptation of power can be tough to overcome. The truth is however, that control, recognition, and authority only bring a false sense of identity and adequacy. Be wary when you start to compare.

2. We lack accountability.

If you don’t have people who will hold you responsible when you venture off course, find some! It could be a board, a co-worker, a fellow leader or a trusted mentor. We all need accountability to steer us away from the temptation of abusing the power we are given.

3. Authenticity is missing.

Are you willing to be vulnerable, humble and meek? Many leaders fall victim to power because they do not know how to develop healthy close relationships. They can’t be real and open with others, so they choose to control them instead. The abuse of power can be a way of covering up our lack of genuine relationship.

As godly leaders, we are not alone in our fight against the temptation of power. On a positive note here are three ways to overcome temptation:

4. Know, understand, and use the Word of God.

The Bible is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path (Psalms 119:105). When your identity is questioned or your leadership ability is doubted, don’t look to power, look to Jesus. Hebrews 2:18 says, “For because He Himself has suffered when tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted.”

5. Focus on the correct prize.

If our eyes are on temporary rewards, we will be tempted to chase them. However, when our eyes are focused on the eternal prize, the distraction of power becomes lessened.

What kind of a legacy do you want to leave? How do you want to be remembered: as driven by power and control, or by love and integrity? Choose love over power, the cross over control.

6. Remember it’s only through God’s power that anything great gets accomplished.

Godly leaders recognize their need for more of Jesus. It’s not the authority of man but the power of God that transforms, overcomes and wins. “‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty” (Zechariah 4:6).

Don’t let the pursuit of power sidetrack your leadership.

The temptation of power is a real threat. If God is speaking to your heart through this blog, find someone to talk to and pray with. Together we can confront the struggle and find victory in Jesus.

Growth Point

The temptation of power is a threat to godly leadership and requires seeking Christ-like character, accountability and kingdom perspective.

Scripture Point

Read 1 Peter 5:8-11. Meditate on the promise that God gives in this verse.

Action Point

Take time this week to read the following article by Henri Nouwen on leadership.

 

[1] http://www.christianity9to5.org/three-temptations-of-a-christian-leader/

http://svm2.net/abandonedtimes/overcoming-the-temptation-of-power/

http://danblackonleadership.info/archives/606