LEADING FROM BROKEN PLACES

We often imagine great leaders as strong, confident, and put together, qualities we rarely see in ourselves. Seasons of brokenness can make us question our calling and believe our failures disqualify us from God’s favor. Peter knew this well. After denying Jesus three times, he returned to fishing, convinced his leadership was over. Yet Jesus met him not with accusation, but with a restoring question: “Do you love Me?” (John 21). Peter’s story reminds us that God meets us in brokenness, restores what was lost, and rebuilds us to lead for His glory.

BROKENNESS SHAPES HOW WE SERVE

God does not make mistakes in where He assigns us. Peter denied Jesus in Jerusalem, yet he was called to shepherd God’s people there, reminding us that the place of our failure is often the place of our refinement. Brokenness teaches us to serve with the right motives, recognizing that serving God is a privilege, not a burden, and that joyless service reveals misplaced priorities (Psalm 100:2; Deuteronomy 28:47–48). As ego is stripped away, gratitude takes its place. Ultimately, broken leaders learn to live for God’s approval rather than people’s applause, trusting that their true reward comes from the Lord alone (2 Timothy 4:8).

BROKENNESS SHAPES HOW WE FIGHT

Ministry is not only spiritual work; it is spiritual warfare. Brokenness teaches leaders to walk humbly, especially when influence increases, because pride leaves us vulnerable (v.6; Micah 6:8). Leadership also brings weight and anxiety, but prayer reminds us to cast our cares on God rather than carry what was never ours to bear (v.7; Colossians 4:12–13). Brokenness sharpens our vigilance when the enemy resists us, reminding us our battle is not against people but spiritual forces (vv.8–9; Ephesians 6:12). Even suffering is purposeful, as God uses it to equip us to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3–4).

BROKENNESS POSITIONS US FOR RESTORATION

God does not break us to abandon us but to rebuild us for His purpose. After denying Jesus, Peter was pursued, restored, strengthened, and reestablished. Though we may feel weak after failure or embarrassment, God pours His strength into our surrendered lives. God restores what He allows to be broken. He mends, confirms, strengthens, and establishes us for His glory. From brokenness, God brings eternal purpose in Christ.