The Tough and Tender Leader

The Tough and Tender Leader

For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. 2 Corinthians 7:10

In his previous letter to the church, Paul played the role of the tough leader. He instigated conflict. In this letter, he speaks more from a personal viewpoint, more from his heart. He exudes tenderness.

In 2 Corinthians 7, the apostle discusses how he caused the Corinthians sorrow, but distinguished between good sorrow and bad sorrow. Every leader will find this distinction profitable to understand.

Consider the differences:

Bad Sorrow Good Sorrow
1. Pain goes on indefinitely 1. Pain is temporary
2. Example: Judas (Matthew 27:3-5) 2. Example: Peter (Luke 22:54-62)
3. Leads to regret and death 3. Leads to repentance and life
4. Suffering based on selfishness 4. Suffering based on God's will

Leaders should never seek revenge or desire to hurt someone just to vindicate their action. The pain they bring should have the constructive purpose of repentance and recovery.