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I grew up in a spiritual culture of faith and perfection.
A leader or Pastor was the epitome of perfection. He/She was the perfect example of faith, prosperity through giving (only), perfect health and family life, all achieved by putting the work of the ministry first. Admitting the need for rest, family time or any failings or weakness was shameful spiritual immaturity and a lack of focus.
Many of the faith teachings were beneficial, but the image projections were a problem - they were not honest.
Yes, Christ came to make us Kings and Queens in life and to rule and reign over all of creation as his children but the BALANCE according to scripture is that ALL of us - leaders and those being led, are still God's "work in progress".
We are born again in the likeness of Christ Jesus who is 100%divine and 100% human. And as unscriptural as the "we are only human" religious preach in some Christian circles are, the 100% divine only view is just as unbalanced.
An open acknowledgement of our failings and weaknesses is a first step to wholeness and the saving of our souls. It should be part of our example to the brethren. Titus 2:7
The Apostle Paul wrote: But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)
This transparency and admission of our human part, brings the required balance to our spiritual faith walk. It removes the burden of pretense leaders place on themselves. This pretense burdens the led with the wrong target of trying to attain to the leader's assumed perfection.
All that secrecy is actually fleshly. It is us protecting an image that ensures our supremacy in the eyes of others. This sin feeds our ego and despite displays of humility, it is pride.
A honest approach saves the leader from placing himself (or being placed by others) on a pedestal only meant for our Lord Jesus Christ. This ensures that no other foundation of faith can be laid in the heart of those we lead except the one and True foundation which is Christ! [1Cor 3:11] Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)
In recent years, I am learning to embrace my weaknesses and shortcomings, and to find my righteousness only in the sacrifice made by Christ Jesus my Lord.
I learnt to banish guilt and really enjoyed planned quality time with family. And I quelled fear and pride by revealing my recently overcame stress breakdown that was triggered by a sad incidence.
If this reduces others' perception of my leadership value, so be it: I am God's work in progress.😊
Our aim, always, should be to glorify Jesus and make him the focus of all by encouraging a focus on the Bible.
This is my aim and I pray this is yours as well. Amen.
But, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends. 2 Corinthians 10:17-18 NIV
Philippians 3:12Living Bible (TLB) I don’t mean to say I am perfect. I haven’t learned all I should even yet, but I keep working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ saved me for and wants me to be.