If people in
positions of influence aren't careful, they will lead to satisfy the cravings
of their ego.
They crave to feel
important. They want to be liked and admired. They suspect that if they can get
enough affirmation from others, then that will satisfy the longings deep inside
their heart.
That's why they
lead. That's why they find it difficult to tell someone, "No, can't do it.
Sorry." That's why they silently resent the pressures and demands of
leadership but they do it anyway. Leadership, to them, is a drug that promises
to satisfy their inner longing for significance. (It rarely does!)
Incidentally, many
folks who claim to be followers of Jesus don't cultivate a vibrant relationship
with Him. The consequence of this neglect is a deep cavernous hole in their
heart that longs to be filled. Thus, the need for ceaseless affirmation, admiration,
etc.
A leader does
everyone around him/her an incredible favor by pursuing a relationship with
Jesus and filling up that 'Grand Canyon' in their heart so that they lead for
the right reasons - to develop people and not to satisfy that inner longing.
It is obvious from
Jesus' example that He wasn't debilitated by cravings for other's affirmation.
In fact, there were times when people were calling for Him to do things that
would have brought upon Him more praise. His answer? "Sorry. Can't do it. I've
got other areas I need to focus on." (And don't miss the fact that He
illustrated for us that inner security comes from developing our relationship
with God through a vibrant prayer life.)
Mark 1:35-39 (New
Living Translation)
"Before
daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to
pray. Later Simon and the others went out to find him. When they found him,
they said, 'Everyone is looking for you.' But Jesus replied, 'We must go on to
other towns as well, and I will preach to them, too. That is why I came.' So he
traveled throughout the region of Galilee, preaching in the synagogues and
casting out demons."
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