For those of who have leadership roles, it is important that we understand how God wants us to carry out our responsibilities. The apostle Paul had been given great authority to plant churches and give them leadership. However, the way he handled his authority was very imoportant. Read these quotes from a few letters he wrote to a church in the city of Corinth …
"For even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than pulling you down, I will not be ashamed of it." [2 Corinthians 10:8. NIV]
"This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority — the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down." [2 Corinthians 13:10. NIV]
Notice that Paul saw the authority that he had been given by God as existing for the purpose of building people up not tearing them down. This didn't meant that there weren't times that Paul needed to give people a firm rebuke or some loving confrontation but even then, the ultimate goal was the growth and development of people's lives and the community of faith.
If you have been entrusted with a leadership role you have been given both auhority and responsibility. You will be held accountable for how you use your authority. Use it carefully and always in love, which is the highest value (see 1 Corinthians 13). Use your authority to build people up, not to tear them down. As a leader, your words, your actions, and your attitudes, have a powerful influence on the people you lead. Handle that power with great care.
More tomorrow …