Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of ministering in campus fellowships. I’m often invited to their handover services. One day, as a leader was being installed into office, I watched the cheers and how he waved his hands as people ushered him to the altar. In that moment, I wondered, “Does this young man grasp the weight of what he’s stepping into?”
Friend, spiritual leadership is a sacred trust that demands sobriety and a clear sense of calling (1 Peter 5:2). It differs from political appointments in our clime, where people scheme for office and celebrate victory. Sadly, many now view God’s call the same way. They chase titles, not travail (Hebrews 5:4).
In past decades, men ran when they heard God’s call. Scripture shows it (Jeremiah 1:6). They felt unqualified for spiritual office. They saw the suffering, burden, and responsibility first. They would tell God, “Send someone else.” They felt totally unworthy (Exodus 3:11).
However, this is not the case today. Many young men now boast of divine calling or rush to answer a supposed call from God. It makes me wonder what has changed (2 Timothy 2:4). We’ve made ministry so attractive that few count the cost before stepping in. The altar looks glamorous, but the cross behind it is ignored (Luke 14:28).
People rarely see the price, only the prize. They chase the blessing but avoid the burden (Acts 20:24). They love the hype and glamour without knowing the secret tears and demands. They want to be like popular men of God. But our fathers didn’t enter ministry to make it. They entered to obey God, even if it meant suffering (1 Corinthians 9:16).
The call of God is an honour. But this honour is first a weight of burden before it becomes a weight of glory. You must be sure God called you (Colossians 1:25). When you know beyond doubt that He called you, you will see it as He sees it. Then you will know He supplies grace for the burden and humility for the blessing. Leadership is stewardship, not a trophy (2 Timothy 4:1).
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria