This morning in my Quiet Time I read from Exodus 1 where the Pharaoh is a wicked, wicked king who calls up the Jewish midwives then all of the parents to murder newborn boys.  I was stopped in my tracks at the power and influence one man could have over so many others … and in this case it was destructive.

I am humbled by my responsibility to lead my family and our church.  It sent me looking in the Message translation of Proverbs for wisdom and direction.  Here are the highlights of what I found:

A good leader motivates, doesn't mislead, doesn't exploit …Good leaders abhor wrongdoing of all kinds; sound leadership has a moral foundation. Good leaders cultivate honest speech; they love advisors who tell them the truth. (16:10, 12-13)

Love and truth form a good leader; sound leadership is founded on loving integrity. (20:28)

Good leadership is a channel of water controlled by God; he directs it to whatever ends he chooses.  We justify our actions by appearances; God examines our motives. (21:1-2)

Kick out the troublemakers and things will quiet down; you need a break from bickering and griping! God loves the pure-hearted and well-spoken; good leaders also delight in their friendship.  (22:10-11)

Like the horizons for breadth and the ocean for depth, the understanding of a good leader is broad and deep. (25:3)

A leader of good judgment gives stability; an exploiting leader leaves a trail of waste. (29:4)

The impact and effect of the leader on so many others is a sobering truth that I am dealing with today.  I so very much want for my leadership to provide shelter, nourishment, faith, stability and spiritual growth for my family, staff and church.  I pray God would meet the needs of my heart so I can meet the needs of those I serve.

Today, I sought the Lord and these were my prayers.  If you feel so compelled I would covet your prayers for me as well:

·                 I pray for wisdom.

·                 I pray for energy and enthusiasm.

·                 I pray for courage.

·                 I pray for humility.

·                 I pray for God-given inspiration.

·                 I pray for miraculous growth for our church.

·                 I pray for protection.

·                 I pray for God’s favor.

·                 I pray for whole-hearted devotion to Christ.

You are a leader , too, … you know that right?  It may be in a large or a small arena but we each exercise influence at some level and our leadership should always be “as unto the Lord.”  I pray each of us will be found faithful.

Blessings,

Pastor Paul