Genuine confidence can sometimes feel like a rare gem in a world filled with pride and arrogance. Interestingly, leaders in fields like the military, corporate world, education, politics, and faith often struggle to find that solid confidence, especially in an age where neglect, individualism, and mediocre leadership are too common. In comparison, factors like DNA, experiences, culture, and authority shape our confidence only to a point. Still, the deep-rooted convictions of life establish and sustain humility and produce resilience in the long run. In our previous blog, "The Armor of Belief, Truth, and Trust," we discussed how our life is built on those Godly elements that unlock the most potent secret of leadership— humility.

Reflecting on my years as senior minister at Elevating Life Church, I recall a conversation from nearly a decade ago. After service, a church member said, "Your confidence as a leader with two decades of military service and years in corporate America is surprising; I expected a more arrogant style. Where does your delightful confidence come from? What's your secret?" Warmly, I replied, "It's simple: I've learned to wear the armor of humility." This armor means I've let go of controlling tendencies and grounded myself in God's reality while striving to trust Him daily and remain humble by His grace.

This exchange reminds me of Proverbs 3:5- 6, which says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." True confidence is not about self-reliance but about clothing ourselves with the teachings and habits of God, drawing strength from a reliable, perfect source outside ourselves. For Christians, this is Jesus Christ, learning His teachings from "Repent to Make Disciples" in the Gospels first, then learning from other models such as military, business, education, politics, entertainment, sports, etc. 

I've learned true confidence is also inseparable from humility. Pastor Rick Warren famously said, "Humility isn't about thinking less of yourself; it's about thinking of yourself less." When we put on the armor of humility, we create space to listen, build trust, and cultivate leadership that reflects the grace and truth of Christ. In Philippians 2:3, Paul writes, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves." True confidence equips leaders to stand firm, not dominate, but empower and care for others. It inspires trust and collaboration, fostering an environment where people can thrive together.

True confidence, anchored in God's truth, catalyzes transformation. It radiates a warm but powerful strength that draws others in. This confidence allows us to navigate uncertainty gracefully, trusting in God's purpose. It is not just a personal attribute but a force that can inspire and motivate those we gladly lead.

So, where does true confidence belong? It belongs here, with you, me, and everyone who calls themselves a leader or, better yet, a Christian. Like all the teachings of Christ, when humility is understood as a moment-by-moment reality, it grows from a simple habit to a way of wearing life, becoming the armor we wear daily. When we clothe ourselves in beliefs that come from the teachings of Christ, build divine truth that meets the demands of all reality, and trust God's promises, we can face any issue, challenge, and problem with the armor of humility. Understand, we are all together as a community of leaders striving to embody true confidence in the Lord to infinity and beyond!

With confidence and grace,

Pastor Drake