Date of Award

Fall 10-9-2025

Document Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL)

Department

Organizational Leadership

First Advisor

Emile Hawkins

Second Advisor

Joshua Henson

Third Advisor

Debra Dean

Abstract

Project Overview: This presentation examined the spiritual wilderness as a critical environment for genuine formation in the life of a believer. Drawing from your doctoral capstone, it explored how confronting what you described as “Carnival Cruise Ship Christianity” becomes necessary for believers who desire depth rather than ease, conviction rather than comfort, and spiritual fire rather than passive faith. The session highlighted how practicing the presence of God in hidden seasons produces authentic Pentecostal identity marked by hunger, holiness, and continual encounter with the Holy Spirit.

Project Themes: The central theme of the presentation was that the wilderness is not a setback but a refining space where superficial forms of Christianity are exposed. It emphasized the contrast between entertainment-driven faith and a life shaped by personal communion with God. The seminar explored how intentional rhythms of worship, prayer, repentance, and sensitivity to the Spirit cultivate stability, spiritual fire, and renewed devotion. It also showed how strategic leadership principles can support believers in navigating seasons of testing by helping them anchor identity, purpose, and direction in the presence of Jesus.

Contributions to the Field of Leadership: This project broadens leadership studies by integrating spiritual wilderness formation with strategic leadership development. It reframes leadership as the fruit of a life shaped by presence rather than performance. By showing how Pentecostal practices such as listening prayer, encounter, and Spirit-led discernment can guide decision-making and cultural formation, the presentation demonstrates that leaders become most effective when their authority flows from intimacy with God and the refinement that takes place in seasons of hiddenness.

Real World Implications: The presentation offers insight into how Christian universities, ministries, and developing leaders can cultivate environments that resist shallow cultural Christianity and encourage deeper spiritual formation. Practicing the presence of God becomes a sustaining force that strengthens personal leadership, ignites spiritual passion, and shapes communities marked by authenticity and devotion.

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