A Warning and a Lesson for Leaders - Guarding the Soul When Strength Is Low

One of the greatest dangers for leaders is not sudden moral failure, but slow, unseen depletion.

Scripture consistently warns us that temptation rarely comes when we are strong, clear-minded, and spiritually anchored. More often, it comes when we are exhausted, emotionally depleted, physically tired, and quietly discouraged. In those moments, even seasoned leaders can become vulnerable in ways they never imagined.

I have learned, sometimes the hard way, that when strength is low, discernment is weakened. When the soul is weary, the flesh becomes louder.

The Vulnerability of Depletion:

The apostle John identifies three primary avenues through which temptation gains access to our lives: 'the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life' (1 John 2:16). These pressures are not new, but they intensify when leaders are worn down.

When we are depleted, we are far more susceptible to:

• The lust of the flesh — seeking comfort instead of Christ
• The lust of the eyes — allowing what we see to stir desires we would normally resist
• The pride of life — compensating for inner weakness with outward validation

This is not about judging others or projecting personal consecration onto people. It is about recognizing a sobering spiritual principle: Depletion lowers defenses.

Elijah: A Lesson Every Leader Must Learn:

Few stories illustrate this more clearly than Elijah’s. After one of the greatest spiritual victories recorded in Scripture, Elijah collapsed under discouragement and exhaustion. He prayed to die, overwhelmed by fear and despair (1 Kings 19:4).

God’s response is deeply instructive. He did not rebuke Elijah. He did not lecture him about faith or endurance. Instead, God fed him, let him sleep, and restored his strength. Only then did God speak again to Elijah’s calling and future (1 Kings 19:5–8). That alone should teach leaders something profound: sometimes the most spiritual thing a leader can do is rest.

Discouragement Is Not Neutral:

Discouragement is never passive. If it is not addressed, it becomes a gateway. Unchecked discouragement erodes gratitude, clouds perspective, and weakens resolve. Over time, it creates just enough internal justification to compromise “just a little.” Most failures do not begin with rebellion; they begin with fatigue, isolation, and unattended wounds.

This is why Scripture exhorts us to 'guard your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life' (Proverbs 4:23). Guarding the heart includes tending to our spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being.

Staying Encouraged Is Protective:

For leaders, staying encouraged is not optional, it is protective. Scripture calls us to “watch and pray” because vigilance requires intentional stewardship of the inner life. Renewal does not happen accidentally; it must be cultivated. We renew strength and resist temptation by:

• Renewing the mind — returning again and again to truth, not feelings (Romans 12:1–2)
• Caring for the body — rest, healthy rhythms, and exercise are spiritual disciplines, not indulgences
• Addressing stress honestly — naming emotional and physical depletion before it names us
• Living examined lives — refusing isolation and remaining accountable

Ignoring depletion does not make us more spiritual. It makes us more vulnerable.

Leadership Requires Greater Watchfulness:

With every increase in influence and public ministry comes greater responsibility—not only for how we live before others, but for how we steward our own souls before God. This is not about perfection. It is about humility, awareness, and obedience. The enemy does not need access to our calling if he can work through our exhaustion.

A Final Exhortation:

Leaders, do not wait until you are empty to seek renewal. Do not spiritualize burnout. Do not confuse endurance with neglect of the soul. Strength sustained over time comes from alignment—spirit, soul, and body, submitted to God. If we want to finish well, we must learn to rest well, live honestly, and stay encouraged.

Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. (Galatians 6:9)