I had an awkward experience in my first year on campus. I ate at a popular canteen and later taught at a fellowship program the same day. As I preached, I locked eyes with a guy I’d eaten with earlier. Wondering what he’s thinking, I managed to deliver my message. Afterwards, I decided to avoid eating in public on campus – I’d rather grab food quietly and head home.
Friend, there’s the burden and the blessing of leadership, but people often focus on the blessing – title, fame, and perks (Mark 10:35-40). When it comes to the burden, people make excuses. If you can’t handle the heat, get out of the kitchen (Luke 12:49-50).
If you can’t endure the burden, you don’t qualify for the blessing (Luke 12:48). Leadership means responsibility and restrictions. You can’t do certain things, not because they’re sinful, but because of who you represent.
Your influence demands care – you’ll answer for how you use it (James 3:1). Your integrity is tested by what you’re willing to sacrifice. Paul said, “We have not used our rights…” (1 Corinthians 9:12). Effective leaders prioritize responsibility over rights.
From the opening story, eating in public spaces is not a sin (1 Corinthians 6:12-13). But it may undermine your leadership. It’s all about perception. It would take grace for the young man not to see me in the light of the image of me he saw at the canteen earlier in the day. He might be distracted from focusing on the meal of the word to the meal at the canteen (Galatian 5:13).
It’s concerning when leaders do things that undermine their influence (1 Corinthians 9:12). Leadership is about what’s helpful, not just allowed. Leaders let go of things that affect how people see them, ensuring their liberty doesn’t cause others to stumble (Romans 14:13). That’s the burden of leadership.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria