In studying about the various theories and models of leadership, such as servant leadership, spiritual leadership, transactional leadership and transformational leadership, I was reminded of the old adage, “Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”  In the exercise of leadership, power is necessary.  So the question for a leader who strives to be a servant and to be spiritual, is how to use that power effectively but keep it in check so that it does not corrupt the leader.

Today, I meditated on Psalm 113:7-8 “He raises the poor from the dust, And lifts the needy from the ash heap.  To make them sit with princes, with the princes of his people,” and on Isaiah 57:15 “I dwell on a high and holy place, and also with the contrite and lowly of spirit.”  Contrast this with Isaiah 57:17 “Because of the iniquity of his unjust gain I was angry and struck him; I hid my face and was angry, and he went on turning away, in the way of his heart.”  What a sober reminder of who is the absolute power holder!  What a needed reminder that those of us who exercise any kind of influence do so because the Lord lifted us up!  What a convicting thought it is to remember that God identifies with the lowly and the humble!

I also read an article today in Time magazine entitled ”Why Powerful People Overestimate Themselves.”  (Click here:#mce_temp_url#) I encourage you to read it.  In it the results of a study are reported and briefly analyzed which link power, overconfidence and outcomes (usually extremely good or extremely bad).  Illustrations of these are given in the decisions of presidents and financial gurus on Wall Street.  While it recognizes that often times leaders accomplish significant feats by overconfidence and unilateral decision-making, it warns that unchecked, this can lead to failure also.  One suggestion the article makes is the discipline of considering pros and cons of the decision in collaboration with others, even with those who are not in our “party.”  This to me is a key of collaborative, servant leadership.  Bold decisions and initiatives best serve the people we lead when they are discussed in a team setting and in a disciplined way.  If legacy is our concern, then collaboration should be part of our strategy.  If power is our concern, then we must beware that it does not consume us and ultimately be our downfall.

Of course, the part that the article does not touch is the spiritual aspect.  The Scripture (see references above) reminds us that God is the one who lifts people up and who tears them down.  Thus, as leaders, we must submit our power and influence to Christ’s lordship.  We do this by a daily attitude of brokenness and humility before him.  We do this by not ignoring the lowly around us.  God notices them!  Is it possible to do this and to be effective and influential leaders?  Jesus did it!

• Legacies 2009
• Dr. Rudy Sanchez, an encourager for young leaders