Leading Through Struggles?

The Power of Presence: Lessons from Jesus in Hebrews 2:10-18

Leadership is not about standing above people; it’s about walking with them. Hebrews 2:10-18 shows us that Jesus modeled this perfectly. Although He was fully God, He became fully human, stepping into our broken world to feel what we feel, suffer as we suffer, and overcome what we cannot conquer alone.

What amazes me most about this passage is the intentionality of Jesus' experience. He didn’t have to endure temptation, suffering, or death—but He chose to. Why? Because true connection requires shared experience. People don’t follow leaders because of titles; they follow when they know the leader has walked through the same fire they’re facing.

Warren Wiersbe reminds us that Jesus became our "merciful and faithful High Priest" by fully identifying with us. His suffering wasn’t an accident; it was necessary to understand us deeply and to rescue us completely (Be Confident). This passage calls Jesus the “Captain of our salvation” (v. 10). The Greek word for “captain” is archēgos, meaning trailblazer or pioneer. He didn’t just point to salvation from a distance—He led the way by entering the very struggles we face, including temptation, rejection, and even death.

Chuck Smith emphasizes this point: Jesus didn’t take the form of an angel because angels couldn’t relate to our lives or die for our sins. Instead, Jesus became fully human so He could destroy the grip of death and set us free from fear (vv. 14-15). Smith puts it plainly: Jesus “put Satan out of business.” His victory offers us a pathway to victory too (Blue Letter Bible Study Guide).

This truth challenges us to rethink how we lead and serve. Great leaders don’t just share victories; they share vulnerability. They acknowledge pain, mistakes, and challenges—and show how God’s power carried them through.

As you navigate your own leadership journey, remember this: people will connect with your story when they know you've been through the fire and come out stronger. Like Jesus, lead with empathy, authenticity, and love.

When life gets overwhelming, remember this truth from Hebrews 2—Jesus knows the struggle because He lived it. He doesn't just sympathize from a distance; He stands alongside you, offering strength and victory.

Reflection

• How can you lead with authenticity by sharing your personal journey?

• In what ways can Jesus’ example inspire your leadership today?

Sources:

• Wiersbe, Warren W., Be Confident: Living by Faith in an Uncertain World.

• Chuck Smith Study Guide on Hebrews 2, Blue Letter Bible (Commentary on Hebrews 2 by Matthew Henry) (Study Guide for Hebrews by Chuck Smith)