One of the most fascinating things I have witnessed is a test station for aerospace engine prototypes. These large chambers take new airplane engine designs and expose them to a variety of extreme elements to ensure the integrity of the engine will not fail in times of duress. The intent is to ensure the affliction the engines are exposed to won’t affect it to a degree that would harm the passengers it is built to serve.
As leaders, we must be equipped to withstand spiritual storms so we can adequately lead those we are called to serve.
- Every leader needs to find time to renew their strength. Seems to make sense, but oftentimes we see those in leadership finding themselves depleted, hurt and overridden with worry. I’ve heard it said that the way you lose consciousness is to exhale or breathe out more than you inhale or breathe in. In the busyness of ministry, we must all find times to allow God to breathe life, inspiration and strength into our lives. I am blessed by an incredible pastor whose preaching enriches my life, and I also find balance and strength from family and friends.
- Personal devotion and inspiration is a must. I try to schedule time each day for study and try to maximize downtime by always having a book readily available. While technology has its downsides, it does have tremendous benefit in giving us a wide range of references and material on command.
- We must all remind ourselves that our strength is rooted in Christ Himself. Paul implores us that Jesus’ strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9). We are thoroughly equipped for any battle as a result of His strength in us.
We must be constantly reminded that God is the engineer of our faith and ministries and has equipped us to weather the most adverse storms. “If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Rom. 8:31)