Leadership 102
The Importance of Finding & Spreading Peace
Perhaps you have never thought of these two ideas as connected, but I believe there is a considerable correlation between them. Let’s discuss.
Bob Lonac The most important and successful leader of all time is Jesus Christ, which is why I use the Bible so often when talking about leadership. In the world today we need leaders who will spread peace. And the source of peace is Christ.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
Do you know anyone who has had troubles in their life? We all do. I love that Jesus put this right on the table. The Bible tells the real story about what life is like, both the challenges and the opportunities. The winds of adversity blow all around us, especially in today’s world. Stress seems to be the order of the day.
Do I have to remind you of the pandemic, the tribalisms and hatred we experience, wildfires that have completely devastated the landscape, natural disasters, and economic challenges?
People are looking for peace! Jesus also said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matt 5:9 NIV)
Peacemakers are warriors in a particular and much different way. They wade into the troubles of the world, bringing a presence of peace in the middle of the storm.
5 Ways to Find Peace as a Leader
You can not fake serenity. The state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled starts on the inside. Others know it and sense it. So how do we, as leaders, find peace?
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?
1. We accept the unconditional love of Jesus for us personally.
And when we do, it gives us such comfort.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
2. As we grow in His love, we experience His comfort.
Peace comes directly from God to us. It is received when we focus on developing a deeper relationship with Jesus through our spiritual disciplines of prayer, reading, and fellowship amid a genuine desire to know God.
3. True peace can only come from God.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
4. Share with others what we are experiencing.
This is yet another example of how Christ calls us to build community.
Rather, as servants of God, we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses;
5. Our own experience establishes our credibility and trust.
We cannot give away physical possessions or spiritual truths that we do not possess ourselves. We must keep peace in our hearts before wishing others peace has any effect on them.
Shalom is a Hebrew word used by Jews to wish people peace in greeting them or in parting. It conveys both a sense that they encounter peace in their relationships and community and find peace, harmony, and tranquility in their inner life.
Shalom to you!
