Why is Leadership So Hard?

Because real leadership is hard, requires selfless service, and because the buck stops here. Servant leadership, exemplified by Christ, is uncomfortable, humbling, self-denying, painful, and counter-intuitive; nonetheless, following His example is the only kind of leadership that brings eternal results, genuine happiness, and true self-fulfillment. 

While we rejoice at many triumphs of leaders in the Bible, we scarce remember their frequent, often undeserved, trials. And it is these challenges and trials of life, survived over decades usually, that God uses to build their incredible leadership success. 

God has a way of using the crap in our lives to refine us to the point where we can withstand the burden of leadership. Jesus even promised us that we would have troubles in this life (John 16:33). How many preachers have you heard speak on that verse? But Jesus goes on to say that in the midst of these rough times, we should take heart because He has already overcome the world. In addition, He has given us the power and peace of His Holy Spirit to guide us along the way. 

So why do we tend to “lose heart” during the valleys of fear?

The simple answer is that we forget to keep our eyes on Him by following His teachings. Instead we often solely look at the wind and waves surrounding our situation. Christ reminds us to keep things in perspective, as our current situation is a “light and momentary” affliction” when compared to eternity. And even when we hear of wars and conflicts or events that seem overwhelming, we are not to fear that it is the end of the world.

In this devotional, we are going to examine many heroic, overcoming stories that each began with significant challenges. It is on the fertile ground of trials that the seeds of a mighty harvest are planted. Those seeds, when watered by the acceptance of His plan over their own, yield abundant fruit later on. 

Plus, we will weave in other themes that arise during trying times and what God’s written word says about each of them. Leadership isn’t easy, but following Christ’s example is worth the effort; plus, he promises us that He will be with us in the trials.

Why do we doubt when He gives us such an amazing promise?