When Jesus was tempted he chose to honor God and remain humble in each decision (Luke 4:1-13). Jesus demonstrated his strength when he stayed grounded to his principles throughout each test. Jesus fully expressed his authority in his proclamation of scripture (Luke 4:4; 4:8; 4:12). Jesus did not back down!
Likewise, Sampson of the Old Testamnet showed significant weakness. His weakness was accompanied by foolishness and arrogance, as he proved his ability to tolerate Delilah’s consistent probing to find his source of strength (Judges 16:6-15). Sampson’s foolishness was further displayed when he told Delilah the truth, and he ultimately was captured, lost his eyes, and strength (Judges 16:5-22). The account of Sampson ends with an acknowledgment of weakness through a demonstration of humility. Sampson prays to the Lord and asks God to “remember me again,” “please strengthen me one more time” and asks for the ability to pay back the Philistines (Judges 16:28). Sampson’s authority came when he recognized his failure and committed to destroying the enemy through realizing who he was.
Engstrom suggests that leaders have the ability to influence will. Engstrom writes, “the leader has to show the person how to apply himself to take the necessary actions to reach the objectives.” It is essential for leadership to provide training for their followers. Lippstreu adds, “organizations seeking to develop followers into transformational leaders may still be effective by relying on supervisors who are transformational leaders to develop their followers.”
We all are tempted to do wrong at times, but it is crucial to recognize failures and make them right. Leaders are looked to by countless others, so create a firm foundation leadership and lead well.
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References
Engstrom, T. W. (1976). The making of a Christian leader. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Pub. House.
Holy Bible: New Living Translation. (1996). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House.
Lippstreu, M. (2010). Revisiting fundamental concepts of transformational leadership theory: A closer look at follower developmental processes (Order No. 3414482).
