Great Definition of Power...

I wish I had come up with this, but I found this definition here...

In psychological science, power is defined as one's capacity to alter another person's condition or state of mind by providing or withholding resources—such as food, money, knowledge, and affection—or administering punishments, such as physical harm, job termination, or social ostracism. This definition de-emphasizes how a person actually acts, and instead stresses the individual's capacity to affect others.

I love the phrase 'capacity to affect others' especially being in ministry and working with people all the time. I guess I like that because I see that kind of power playing out all the time.

Here's another great insight..

"When it comes to power, social intelligence—reconciling conflicts, negotiating, smoothing over group tensions—prevails over social Darwinism.."

It seems that those who can meaningfully integrate the big picture goals or vision with those in their leadership sphere are those who are truly 'powerful.' 

Last quote, then I'm done...

"A person's power is only as strong as the status given to that person by others."

That is so painfully true in ministry. As much as I would like to be followed because of my title, I know that things will move forward only when I know that those I lead are 'bought in' significantly with ME--and sometimes the vision. 

These quotes are pretty basic, but the implementation and integration of them into leadership are unbelievable complex...