…[B]eing strengthened with all power according to his glorious might

so that you may have great endurance and patience….

—Colossians 1:11 (NIV)

The verse above says we receive power directly from God’s own strength.

But on a practical level, how do we appropriate his power in our leadership?

In other words, what do we as servant leaders do with the heavenly power available to us? Aren’t we supposed to eschew any display of power, and instead personify humility?

Colossians 1:11 holds the answer: God’s power produces endurance and patience in us. These two qualities prove God’s power is at work.

Endurance and patience empower a leader:

• when conflict arises
• when crisis or tragedy strike
• when a down year drags on
• when the team loses hope and patience with each other
• when a competitor threatens
• when the right new hire still hasn’t shown up
• when a star employee leaves
• when the company feels weak
• when investors make demands

A weak or passive leader would fail in these scenarios. During tough times, people want a strong leader who has endured worse situations, and who patiently employs faith and grit.

What requires extra patience and endurance from you right now? Perhaps this is a time to help your people deal with their difficulties by encouraging them to patiently endure.

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