Paul wrote this second letter to the Corinthian church and explained his reasons for not visiting them again.  Notice the leadership of Paul as he addressed these believers.

(NASB) 2 Corinthians 1:23-24 “But I call God as witness to my soul, that to spare you I did not come again to Corinth.
24 Not that we lord it over your faith… ”

Leaders, great leaders identify with those they lead and do not “lord it over” them.  Leaders are not better, nor are they superior, to those they lead.  Great leaders encourage others.

When problems occur in a church – leaders need to step forward and confront those problems.  Paul did not “sweep problems under a rug” and pretend they did not exist.  He dealt with those problems in his first letter to the Corinthians.

(NASB) 2 Corinthians 1:24 “… but are workers with you for your joy… ”
It brings joy when a leader comes alongside and shares in the work as a participant – being a worker with others ~ Joy!

(NASB) 2 Corinthians 1:24 “… for in your faith you are standing firm.”
A great leader commends faith and commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ ~ Joy!

Whether others notice or not, whether I am commended or not ~ I am to still stand firm in my faith.

No matter where I live, or the circumstances I face, I am to stand firm in my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

No greater words will come to my ears than when the Lord Jesus says to me, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”  (Matthew 25:21, 23)

~ Take it to heart ~

(NASB) 1 Corinthians 16:13 “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.”

Be on the alert!

Stand firm in my faith in the Lord Jesus!

Act with maturity!

Be strong (which is God’s strength in me)!

I am to Stand firm in my faith