“Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.” – Luke 23:34 (NIV)
Think of what it’s like to cook for people you care about. You spend time in the kitchen, sweating over the pot, tasting and adjusting, just to make sure it’s perfect. Then someone at the table complains that the food is too salty or barely says thank you. It can really sting. But you don’t stop cooking for them. You learn, you smile, and you serve again because love doesn’t quit that easily.
That’s what spiritual leadership often feels like. Taking care of people is beautiful, but it can also be painful. The very ones God asked you to feed may sometimes be the ones who hurt you through gossip, dishonour, or neglect. But as a leader, your posture must be loving. You keep showing up, you keep serving, because the One who called you keeps doing the same for you.
In our anchor text, we see Jesus praying for those who crucified Him. Even in His deepest pain, His response was compassion. His love did not depend on how He was treated, and that is where true leadership begins. Jesus remains our example. He was betrayed, denied, and condemned to death by the very people He came to serve, yet He stayed committed to the work of salvation. He did not turn away from the ones who failed Him. Instead, He willingly laid down His life for them (John 10:18). That is the kind of heart you must lead with.
But let’s be honest, getting hurt still hurts. So what do you do? You take it to God. Don’t pretend it didn’t affect you. Being a leader doesn’t mean you have to hide your pain or pretend nothing happened. Pour out your heart to your Father, and let Him comfort and strengthen you. He knows how to heal wounds, restore perspective, and bring peace where it is lost. The safest place to process your pain is in His presence.
Pray for the person who hurt you, for this is where your heart begins to heal. It may feel difficult, but prayer releases your heart from offence. It does not excuse the wrongdoing, but it keeps your spirit tender. It allows God to work on your emotions and helps you see the person the way He sees them, beyond the wrongdoing.
Finally, correct in love. Speak to the person directly. A wise leader does not avoid hard conversations; instead, they approach them with prayer and grace. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide your words. If the matter is beyond you, involve someone with spiritual authority to help. (Matthew 18:15-16).
Dear leader, you are not alone. Jesus understands your pain, and He strengthens those who trust Him. Correct with love, cover in prayer, and continue to serve with joy. He is with you in this.
Bible Reading Plan: Jeremiah 25–26; Hebrews 10:32–11:7