Among the greatest gifts we inherit when we become part of the family of God is that He gives us a purpose. The very One who set the stars in the sky and the planets in space has ordained a calling for us, and if we seek Him, He faithfully leads us to it. As for me, I’m called to be a pastor and to expand the Kingdom of Christ through Hour of Power and Shepherd’s Grove. However, I’m not the proprietor of my position — I’m only a steward of what the Lord has entrusted to me. First and foremost, it belongs to Him, and so does everything else that I enjoy. Knowing this, I’m free to embrace my leadership role with the understanding that I don’t bear the burden of ownership. I’m leasing space on this earth from the Creator of the Universe, and He simply asks that I do my best to reflect His priorities as I manage what He’s blessed me with. It’s different for those who don’t have this assurance, however. While I know that God is in control and that He has called me, people without this knowledge are driven to lead from a place of aggression and power. They’re desperate to maintain their position, so they posture, self-promote, and do whatever it takes to get ahead. Since they’re certain that this life is all there is, getting to the top is what matters most, even if they have to “step on someone else’s toes” to make it there. In short, driven leaders are self-centered, but called leaders are servants.

My friend, the One who owns the cattle on a thousand hills invites you to reign with Him. He has granted you influence and authority on the earth, but to use it well, you must surrender ownership to His hand. Forgo the urge to be controlling, possessive, or self-centered, and lead from a place of confidence and humility. You are secure in your calling because you are a steward of the power of the Lord who loves you without end. He invites you to rest in His strength and allow His glory to be the source of your deepest joy and truest satisfaction.