Spiritual leadership isn’t easy. Can I get an “amen” on that?
It comes with weight. With unrealistic expectations. With days that feel overwhelming and nights that lack sleep. If you’ve served in ministry for any length of time, you know there are moments when it feels like too much. Too many needs. Too few resources. And far too many times, the fruit doesn’t seem to match the effort.
But it’s good to pause and remember Who called you, and Who you’re serving.
In Exodus 28:1, God tells Moses, “Now take Aaron your brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister to Me as priest…” That’s a small sentence, but a great reminder: spiritual leadership with Jesus isn’t something we take on ourselves. It’s something He gives. As a matter of fact, we cannot and should not take it upon ourselves. No one should. Ever.
Aaron didn’t ask for the role. He didn’t submit a résumé. God chose him from among the people and called him to serve. Not just serve the people, though that was part of it. But first and foremost, “minister to Me,” God said. That’s the foundation of all spiritual leadership: we serve unto the Lord. That changes everything.
When the pressure builds or unwarranted criticism flows, or you just feel worn out, there’s strength in remembering Who you’re doing this for. You’re not trying to please everyone. You’re not called to carry it all. You’re called to minister to a good God. One who sees. One who rewards. One who never overlooks faithfulness, even when others do.
1 Corinthians 1:27 (NKJV) “But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;”
We’re all flawed. We all have moments when we feel unqualified, unsure, or simply tired. But if God has called you to lead, He will equip you to lead. If He’s called you to serve, He will sustain you in service. He will meet you there. In the sacrifice. In the obedience. In the quiet, unseen moments where no one’s noticing but Him.
Ministry is a gift. Leadership is a blessing. Serving Jesus is not a burden, it’s a privilege.
If you’re leading right now, whether it’s a church, a small group, a classroom, or your family, don’t forget who called you. Don’t forget who you’re ministering to. He’s not just good to the people you serve. He’s good to you, too.
And He’s still using you.
