As I was reading this morning, I came across this verse: Jeremiah 15:1 Then said the LORD unto me, Though Moses and Samuel stood before me, yet my mind could not be toward this people: cast them out of my sight, and let them go forth. As I read it, my mind immediately thought of the well-traveled quote, "Everything rises and falls with leadership." While I have no problem with the rising part, I have often wondered about the falling aspect.
(On a side note, do not take this as a criticism of the one who originated the quote. I do not know the context of when and why he said it, but I do know how it is used today and disagree with it.)
One of the first people I always think of is Noah. By today's standards, he was a failed leader. Yet, God calls him a "preacher of righteousness." I've read some, but not all, of the leadership books that are out on the market today, and many have some good truths for us to learn. But, as Jeremiah points out to us, even a great leader, such as Moses and Samuel, will not be enough to change the direction of some people. Instead of focusing on results, we should focus on those things that we can control, like our spiritual vitality and work ethic. Don't allow the guru's or lack of results frustrate you and to minimize what you do for the Lord.
Let's remember, sometimes great "preaching" does not make for great "doctrine."
Speaking from the student-leader's point of view, we as leaders are only an example of the relationship with Christ that we want others to have. The individual's relationship with Christ is there own and they have to want to have that relationship with Christ. Right?
ReplyDeleteTalk about leadership -- God sent His own son and hearers failed to heed. Some still have ears that hear not and eyes that see not though the leadership is available. Others find "leadership" and accept it as doctrine. Good thoughts here.
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