I don’t know about you, but I find it challenging to follow someone who has never been through difficulty or pain, and I believe the greatest leaders are the ones who share transparently about their limps and struggles. In spite of a prevailing societal belief that a desirable life is one free from opposition, the truth is that every human being will endure trials, and we are best suited to inspire and influence when we speak openly about what we’ve learned in the trenches. For this reason, I see an opportunity in this season of pandemic to ponder how it’s teaching us about ourselves and to consider how it might ultimately enable us to bless and inspire others. As we focus on what the Lord is revealing to us in stillness, we will gain perspective on how far He’s brought us and behold clearly how He’s using these challenging circumstances to make us more like Him.

My friend, you are a leader, and God is preparing you for greater influence in this time of stretching and discomfort. Every obstacle and setback you endure today is setting you up to be an ambassador of hope, healing, and help to others, both now and in the future. Your faithful Father is writing a powerful story in this chapter of your life, and you have the awesome privilege of seeing Him do more than you can ask for or imagine through your present circumstances. As you welcome the Holy Spirit in your midst and align your pain with a passion for Jesus, He will train your mind to see the manifold possibilities in your current position and give you His power to lead through them.