When we say “We train to reign,” it’s not just a catchy phrase. It’s a principle that underscores the significance of preparation, development, and process in fulfilling our potential and stepping into God-ordained leadership and purpose.

Imagine a scenario where a young child is born into royalty, destined to inherit a kingdom. Yet, as long as that child remains immature, impulsive, and undisciplined, they will be no different from a servant. This is not because of their lack of status but because they lack the maturity required to handle the weight of their inheritance.

Why Training Matters

Training is not just about acquiring skills or knowledge; it’s about developing character, discipline, and resilience. The process of training refines us, equips us, and shapes us into the person capable of sustaining the greatness we aspire to.

Consider this: without a strong foundation, a skyscraper cannot stand tall. Similarly, without going through God’s training process, we risk collapsing under the weight of responsibility, power, or influence. This truth resonates across history and leadership examples, both biblical and contemporary.

The Consequences of Skipping the Process

The Bible offers a wealth of cautionary tales about those who avoided or bypassed the training process:

1. Lucifer: He was created with extraordinary beauty and talent but lacked the humility and grounding that comes with growth and development. The result? Pride overtook him, and his fall was catastrophic.
2. Adam: As the first man, Adam was created fully formed and didn’t experience the growth process. When faced with the test of obedience, he stumbled, bringing consequences that reverberated through generations.
3. Saul: Chosen as Israel’s first king, Saul’s ascent was meteoric. But his lack of preparation showed in his impulsiveness, disobedience, and eventual rejection by God.

Each of these examples underscores a vital truth: greatness achieved without training is often short-lived.

The Power of Process

Now, let’s look at those who embraced the process:

• David: Though anointed as a young shepherd, David didn’t ascend to the throne immediately. He endured years of trials, challenges, and preparation. From defeating lions and bears in the wilderness to running from Saul, David’s journey prepared him to lead with wisdom, humility, and reliance on God.
• Jesus: Even the Son of God didn’t bypass the growth process. He came as a child, grew in wisdom and stature, and waited for the appointed time to begin His ministry.

God doesn’t rush greatness. He allows time for growth because true leadership demands more than talent; it requires character, vision, and perseverance—all developed through training.

How to Embrace the Training Process

1. Submit to Mentorship and Guidance
   Surround yourself with mentors, leaders, and relationships that challenge and inspire growth. No one becomes great in isolation. Be willing to learn, listen, and apply the wisdom of those who’ve gone before you.
2. Embrace Challenges as Opportunities
   Growth often happens in the face of adversity. Instead of running from challenges, see them as tools for refinement. The trials you face today are building your capacity for the future.
3. Develop Discipline and Commitment
   Training requires consistency. Whether it’s in spiritual growth, skill acquisition, or personal development, discipline is key. Commit to the process, even when it’s hard or seems slow.
4. Cultivate a Servant’s Heart
   Great leaders are first great servants. Be humble enough to serve, learn, and grow in small roles before seeking positions of influence.
5. Stay Rooted in Purpose
   Understand why you’re training and who you’re becoming. Keeping your eyes on the bigger picture helps you endure the challenges of the process.

The Fruit of Training

When we submit to training, we are transformed. We develop not just the skills but the mindset and maturity needed to reign effectively. A trained individual doesn’t just lead; they lead with integrity, wisdom, and impact.

The world is in desperate need of leaders who have been refined through the fire of preparation. People who can handle power with grace, navigate challenges with wisdom, and serve others with humility.

As you reflect on your journey, ask yourself:

• What areas of my life need more training?
• Who has God placed in my life to guide me?
• Am I willing to submit to the process, even when it’s uncomfortable?

Conclusion

Training is not a punishment but a privilege. It’s God’s way of preparing us for the extraordinary purposes He has in store. Don’t despise the process. Embrace it. Trust it. Commit to it.

Because when the time comes for you to reign, you’ll not only step into your inheritance—you’ll have the strength, wisdom, and character to sustain it. And that’s the kind of leadership that transforms lives, communities, and generations.

So, let’s commit to training. After all, we train to reign.