In Season and Out of Season: Leadership Lessons From a Broken Heater
It’s a universal truth: heaters never break in the summer, and air conditioners never break in the winter. This irony circled my mind as I bundled up against the biting cold, relying on a feeble mini heater to ward off the chill. My main heater had called it quits, and the maintenance man’s words—“the timing couldn’t be worse”—only underscored our predicament, as we navigated below-freezing temperatures.
Surprisingly, this brought to mind a phrase I’d often heard in church growing up: “You have a responsibility to preach in season and out of season.” Only later did I realize that this wisdom came straight from scripture: “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:2 ESV). Leaders, pastors, and people alike are called to act, whether conditions are ideal or not.
This experience with the broken heater, paired with that familiar saying, merged into a powerful revelation: true leadership—and true character—are tested not when everything runs smoothly, but when things go awry. It’s easy to lead, perform, or keep a positive outlook when life is comfortable. The real test comes when the company is failing, your plans unravel, or the warmth you need—literally or metaphorically—is missing.
Here are some lessons that we all need to settle into:
- Expect Adversity: Problems rarely show up when it’s convenient. Being prepared for challenges—mentally and practically—makes it easier to face them when they arise.
- Lead Regardless of the Season: Leadership is not about waiting for the right moment; it’s about stepping up when things are tough, even if no one seems receptive or conditions are unfavorable.
- Resilience Is Built in the Cold: Just as you find out how well your heater works when it’s cold, you discover your own resilience when circumstances are harsh. These are the moments that shape you.
- Consistency Matters: Whether it’s delivering a message, guiding a team, or simply staying true to your values, showing up consistently—“in season and out of season”—builds trust and respect.
- Adapt and Improvise: Sometimes all you have is a mini heater and a pile of sweaters. Make do with what you have, and don’t wait for perfect conditions to act.
The next time something breaks at the worst possible moment, remember: these are the moments that define us and present our greatest opportunities for growth. Whether leading in warmth or in cold, our responsibility is clear—show up, lead, and grow, in season and out.