Passion often differentiates great leaders from mediocre ones. Passion will take leaders to amazing heights while phlegmatic leaders may trudge along with modest results. The problem with passion is its fleeting nature. It can consume us almost to bursting one moment and abandon us the next. Our passion for God’s work can be inflamed as we listen to a sermon but then be immediately deflated at the first sound of criticism.
Those whose leadership is based on passion must be prepared for a career of severe ups and downs! Because our passion is a feeling, it is grounded in our current emotions. The truth is: it is hard to be passionate about certain things. Serving without being appreciated, persevering under criticism, waiting on the Lord when He doesn’t answer immediately, are not easy to do at the best of times. But they are certainly challenging to perform zealously.
Ultimately our passion for service must come from God and not our circumstances. When we consider what Christ has done for us, His promises to us, and His ongoing work on our behalf, we are more likely to be passionate in our service for Him. Are you known as a leader who grows hot or cold? Are you zealous for God one day and lukewarm the next? How much, or little, does it take to alter the fervency of your service for Christ? Is your zeal for serving your Lord the same today as it was when He first called you into His service? Or, have you allowed people or problems to rob you of the joy of serving your Lord with all your heart?