Read 2 Corinthians 13 with me. Pray before you dive in, "Lord reveal yourself to me through your Word. Holy Spirit bring revelation!"
Today verse 10 stood out to me, “This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority—the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.”
2 Corinthians 13:10 NIV
I love the simple reminder today as we Influence and lead others who have been entrusted to us. We have 2 ways we can use our authority; to lift up or tear down. I don’t know about you but I want to use it to build others!!!! Even when people are falling/failing I want to use the authority I have been given to correct and admonish in a way that doesn’t deflate or beat up but causes someone to want to do better! I just realized today we have a choice how we use our influence. Even when we do need to discipline or bring correction. I've always believed I have to earn the right to speak into others' lives. When I have that relationship they are much more likely to hear correction as loving.
In parenting Im reminded when a child is doing something they shouldn't I can offer correction harsh language or I can be loud, but I can also choose to correct gently, yet still directly. I love this reminder today.
I love what Paul models for me as a leader. He wanted to use his authority for edification, not harm. This should be our aim too!
***Edification is the act of instructing in a way that improves the mind or character overall.
Whether Im parenting, speaking to a friend or working with a business partner or employee I want to be known as someone who invests in people, builds them up and edifies rather than who brings harm.
Maybe you don't see yourself as a leader or having Influence over anyone or anything. I can assure you, you do. How do you use your influence? Do you lean towards criticism or praise and the building up of others? I'd love to know in what areas you are leading. Do you have influence in the home, maybe at work, in your community or at church? Perhaps you have a title at your work that has influence.
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