05/17/2026
Paul understood his authority and identity. Apostle. Spiritual father. Authority in the early church. Based on who he was by title, it was clear that he had some worldly authority. But he really understood his identity. Instead of “pulling rank,” he chose love.
There is a kind of leadership that controls and demands, and there is a kind that appeals. They do not produce the same fruit. You can force compliance, but you cannot force a heart to transform. Let’s be clear, God operates from love and offers choice. Force is not God’s chosen way. Love can look like the longer road at the onset, but if you really desire change, it is the only way for someone to truly own their shift. It is the only way that changes people from the inside.
So ask yourself honestly today, when I want someone to do the right thing, do I lean on my position, or do I lean on love? Am I trying to win the argument or trying to be right? Am I really out to cause change in myself and them?