Read 2 Corinthians 10:7–11
Today’s Scripture: Even if I boast somewhat freely about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than pulling you down, I will not be ashamed of it. 2 Corinthians 10:8

In my many years of ministry, I have never ceased to be amazed at how
some churches treat their pastors. If a man shows love and true humility,
they resist his leadership and break his heart. Our Lord was treated the same way as the first pastor, so perhaps we should not be surprised.
The opponents in the church were accusing Paul of not being a true
apostle; for, if he were a true apostle, he would show it by using his
authority. But if Paul had thrown his weight around, they would have found fault with him for doing so. This is what happens when church members evaluate ministry from a worldly viewpoint.

How Christian leaders lead is an evidence of their spiritual maturity.
Immature leaders swell as they use their authority, but mature leaders grow, and others grow with them. Wise pastors, like wise parents, know when to wait in loving patience and when to act with determined power. Mature pastors do not use authority to demand respect, but to command respect.

Mature leaders suffer while they wait to act, while immature leaders act
impetuously and make others suffer.

Something to Ponder
When you are in authority, do you tend to command respect or demand it? Explain.