Leadership and tears How do you lead when it hurts? You’re a leader. But have you—or someone close to you—walked through serious illness or loss? Pain has a strange way of shaping leaders. In the military, when a soldier dies, someone must sit with the grieving family. It takes special insight and grace to sit with a family in their terrible grief. Many times, the most helpful person is someone who has experienced significant loss themselves. They’re the one who can comfort. They understand. I know this firsthand. My longest-standing friend and ministry partner was diagnosed with a devastating illness—the same illness that took my wife’s life. Did I want to go through that pain again with him? Absolutely not. But leadership in God’s Kingdom isn’t just about strategy or outcomes—it’s about love – sacrificial love. Christ calls us to be compassionate, even when it hurts – especially when it hurts. Who could better walk beside my friend than someone who’s already walked that road? No one. Often, we think leadership is about victories. But sometimes, leadership shines brightest when it’s quiet, painful, and personal—when we sit beside someone in their suffering. People listen to those who understand them. Most of us have dealt with health challenges, either personally or in our families. These experiences become bridges to others—especially those far from God. When we relate through pain, hearts open. Scripture to ponder – Galatians 6:2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (NIV) Key Lesson: Your most powerful leadership moments may come not in strength—but in shared sorrow.
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