April 24, 2009 The Sacrifice of Leadership
Today’s Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 28–29; Psalm 109; Matthew 11
Scripture Focus:
Psalm 109:22 For I am poor and needy, and my heart is wounded within me.
Matthew 11:2–3 And when John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples and said to Him, “Are You the coming One, or do we look for another?”
Observation:
Two great men, David and John the Baptist, are struggling. They were chosen by God, and they’re doing what God asked them to do, but their circumstances are abysmal. Shouldn’t God keep them from such calamities and, instead, reward them for their faithfulness?
The truth is that almost every great leader you read about in the Bible goes through deep waters of the soul. Some, like David, finally reach an end to the suffering and take their place as the recognized and revered leader. Others, like John the Baptist, don’t make it out of prison with their head intact.
This deep suffering often leads to anguished prayers and feelings of doubt. It seems to be the crucible in which great leaders are formed.
Application:
God has called me to certain tasks and positions. Am I willing to suffer to accomplish what God has called me to do? Or do I opt for the easy way out rather than embrace the hardship that is the inevitable path to mature leadership?
Prayer:
Abba Father, may I not be one who looks back and wishes I had taken the easy route. Form in me the leader you want me to be for your kingdom’s sake.
