“Leadership in any organization – whether in the local church or in some other Christian activity – is never just a job. It is always a way of life, demanding from those who would be leaders a 24-hour-a-day commitment. The leader, in a sense, must always be on the job, deciding, directing and developing the work that has been entrusted to him while at the same time encouraging those in the work. A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way.” (John Maxwell.)
In these moments, don’t give up; instead listen as God gently whispers … “NOW you’re ready!” And though we may feel like arguing, Really, God? Now, I’m ready? Though we may reply, I don’t feel ready. I feel like giving up. Though we may offer excuses like … The task is too big. I’m too small. I can’t … I don’t know how …
- “Be careful to do what the LORD your God has commanded you.” Abraham believed God and God fulfilled his plan. Moses led Israel by God’s command and God parted the Red Sea. We can’t go wrong when we follow God in steps of obedience. From the blind man washing the mud from his eyes, the prostitute “sinning no more”, or a band of fishermen following God’s invitation…GREAT THINGS happen when God’s children simply obey. What’s God calling you to do…In your marriage? In your ministry? In your parenting? In your school? In your…? Be careful and do all HE has commanded.
- “Do not turn aside to the right or to the left. Walk in all the way that the LORD your God has commanded you” I love this part of Deuteronomy. It reminds us that God will lead. He will instruct. He will guide and provide direction. Our job is to simply follow. Yes! The job is too big! Yes it will seem impossible…BUT GOD has not called us to figure it out or do it on our own…and…When we do not turn aside…when we walk in the way God commands…He does the amazing. Look at his promise in Deuteronomy…
- “so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.” God promises that we will possess the land. We will inherit the promise. We will pass the test. When we serve and give sacrificially, when we love and resist retaliation, when we faithfully give all that we are for Him…HE WILL FULFILL HIS PROMISE!
Friend, I know godly leadership often feels lonely. I know at times it seems as if you are the only one serving or following Christ…BUT…DON’T GIVE UP!
Galatians 6:9-10 reminds and encourages us to“not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” (NIV)
God has great plans for you. Your life counts. You have unlimited potential!
Father, may Your love consume us, fill us, and empower us to live in such a way that we honor you with our every breath!
From the very beginning, God planned for us to be leaders–leaders after His own heart, not leaders by the world’s standards. And that means living HIS principles in our daily lives.