Strength Can Be Found Within a Crisis

Embrace Your Risks

My job entails a lot of responsibility for others——I am a senior pastor who leads a team. This responsibility can feel like a heavy weight, especially when I feel threatened. It can be difficult to embrace risks and keep a level head, but I have learned that it is an essential skill as a leader and as an emotionally-healthy adult.

Some people are passive, fearful, or casual about their responsibilities and let dangers become reality. Maybe they are fearful of criticism or hope that someone else will take the lead. Perhaps they didn’t recognize the threat in time. We’ve probably all felt this way at some point and we all make mistakes, but it’s crucial to learn from them to pay attention and stay alert.

Drawing Strength From Our Saviour

I like to draw from the story of David and the Amalekites when I feel doubtful. In this story, David and his men returned to their home of Ziklag to find that the Amalekites had razed the town and taken their women and children. David was in a dangerous situation because his men were bitter and wanted to stone him, believing it was his fault that this had happened. At this moment, David found strength in the Lord his God. God spoke to him and told him that if they pursued the Amalekites, they would catch them and recover everything that had been taken. Sure enough, David led his men in pursuit and they were able to bring back all their wives and children, as well their livestock. Just like David, we can draw strength from the Lord in these situations.

This last year, we all have experienced threats and dangers in the face of the global pandemic. I have been amazed and inspired by the responses of many churches— their innovative and practical solutions to keep their congregation safe, while still finding creative ways to provide spiritual care… especially at a time like this! It is amazing how resilient churches and people and leaders are. So, keep drawing strength from God. This will pass.

Reflection Questions:

• Is your response to potential danger motivated by fear, passivity or indifference?
• How impacted are you by the fear of criticism?
• What dangers, threats and risks would stop you from pursuing your purpose?
• How can you respond more intentionally to potential danger?