Authority defined: Power and right to give orders, make decisions and enforce obedience.
At some point, we all have authorities in our lives or maybe we have the ability to enforce our authority over others. We all have to obey the authorities that are put in place for a reason. When it comes to leading people, however, there is a balance when it comes to being effective. Parents use their authority with children because children at a certain age need to be told what to do until they are older. After they are grown, you can actually push them away if they only see you as the authority in their lives, and you haven’t developed trust, influence and respect.
The scriptures teach extensively on the balance of authority and Jesus is a good example of what this looks like.
“The reason my Father loves me is that I give up my life. But I will take it back again. No one takes it from me. I give it up myself. I have the authority to give it up. And I have the authority to take it back again. I received this command from my Father.””
John 10:17-18 NIRV
“But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he spoke to the man who could not walk. “I tell you,” he said, “get up. Take your mat and go home.””
Luke 5:24 NIRV
Despite Jesus’ example, we also see an abuse of authority in the scriptures.
“The prophets prophesy falsely, And the priests rule on their own authority; And My people love [to have] it so! But what will you do when the end comes?”
Jeremiah 5:31 AMP
Being in a position of authority is tough, and so the Bible encourages us to pray for this in that position
“Pray for kings. Pray for everyone who is in authority. Pray that we can live peaceful and quiet lives. And pray that we will be godly and holy. This is good, and it pleases God our Savior. He wants all people to be saved. He wants them to come to know the truth.”
1 Timothy 2:2-4 NIRV
Then there is Leadership:
Leadership also comes in many forms: servant leadership, worldly leadership and again, enforced leadership. Which one is more effective? Leaders who understand authority know how to be great leaders without the abuse of their power. They realize that with great power comes even greater responsibility.
Leadership defined: The ability of an individual or a group of individuals to influence and guide followers or other members of an organization.
"Leaders instill in their people a hope for success and a belief in themselves. Positive leaders empower people to accomplish their goals."
-Unknown
The Scriptures also talk about leadership. What does it mean to be a “Godly Leader”?
“A church leader takes care of God’s family. That’s why he must be without blame. He must not look after only his own interests. He must not get angry easily. He must not get drunk. He must not push people around. He must not try to get money by cheating people.”
Titus 1:7 NIRV
A watchful leader?
“Keep watch over yourselves. Keep watch over all the believers. The Holy Spirit has made you leaders over them. Be shepherds of God’s church. He bought it with his own blood.”
Acts 20:28 NIRV
A wise leader?
“So the Lord said to Moses, “Joshua, the son of Nun, has the ability to be a wise leader. Get him and place your hand on him.”
Numbers 27:18 NIRV
Leadership is not only a popular topic in the Bible. We can also find extensive resources and research on what contributes to effective leadership. The following leadership principles are commonly seen as vital to success:
-Lead by example - people don’t follow titles they follow courage
-Leadership is about people
-Focus on change
-Be human and admit mistakes - humility
-Understand the value of listening
-Develop leadership skills constantly
-Promote diversity
-Work together to achieve more.
-Have solid values & pass on convictions
-Know your own strengths & weaknesses
-Help to develop & inspire future leaders
I have learned that as a leader, I have authority. I have realized that I am a more effective leader when I strive to improve other people around me. As a father, husband and leader of others, I have gained confidence and I have grown in my abilities to influence others without abusing my authority. I’ve not arrived and I am still striving to learn and be better through admitting my mistakes and getting advice on my blind spots. But the most valuable decision I have made is striving to imitate the ultimate leader in my book: Jesus!