Power And Responsibility

Focus verses: Ezekiel 34:1-10

Those who aspire to political or social or economic power should read these words with trembling. If you are a leader, you become accountable for the lives of those you lead. In God's hierarchy, those who lead must serve the most.

Servant leadership is almost a lost concept in our day. People aspire to power - political, financial, social or religious - not for the purpose of serving, but for self-aggrandizement. This is contrary to God's purpose for leaders.

When Jesus came, He came to serve, not to be served.

Here God specifically says He will hold the shepherds accountable for the flock.

If you are a teacher, you are accountable to teach only the truth of God with a pure heart and gentle tongue.

If you are a preacher, you are accountable to preach the pure word of God without a spirit of judgment or vengeance.

If you are a political leader, you are accountable to keep all the laws of God and His justice as the core of your laws and justice.

If you are a business owner, you are responsible to behave in godly fashion toward your employees, paying a fair wage for the work they have done for you.

But if any of these leaders climb on the backs of the people and use their positions only to puff themselves up, it will go badly for him in the judgment.

Leadership in any arena brings responsibility more than power. It is the responsibility, and proper execution thereof, that will be the deciding factor when God judges.

Father, God,

Help us to seek, not so much to be served, as to be your servants. Teach us to hear Your voice clearly and inspire our immediate obedience to Your will in all things.

In Jesus' most precious name.
Amen.

My New Year Resolution

Last year was a mixed bag. There is nothing new about that. Seldom do we have a year that is all wonderful - or all simply terrible - although some have come very close.

In the worst of times, there is a small ray of light and levity. In the best of times, there is a shadow. That's just the way it is.

I'm asking my readers to hold me accountable this year. I've joined a LinkedIn group who will endeavor to read the chronological Bible this year. And I had the hare-brained idea to create a daily devotional based on those readings. This means that I will have to read - and write - ahead.

My mother used to tell me that my initiative was wonderful, but my finish-ative was abysmal. And she was right. I'm too embarrassed to let you know how many projects lie unfinished.

This, however, is one that I intend to see through -- with your help and encouragement. If you read these devotionals, please comment just to let me know that you've read it. It can be as simple as "I read it." - or "Present" - or "Hi." I just want a nose count.

If you have comments or suggestions, please feel free to post those as well. Just don't feel obligated to do any more than "check-in."

This will be my last post for 2008, so let me take this opportunity to wish you a blessed and fruitful new year.

Grace and peace to all.