READ: 2 Chronicles 9-11
THINK: A mild-mannered man was reading a book on being self-assertive and decided to start at home. So he stormed into his house, pointed a finger in his wife’s face, and said, “From now on I’m boss around here and my word is law! I want you to prepare me a gourmet meal and draw my bath. Then, when I’ve eaten and finished my bath, guess who’s going to dress me and comb my hair.”
“The mortician,” replied his wife.
King Rehoboam tried that kind of self-assertiveness and it turned Israel against him. When he came to the throne, the people pleaded for less oppressive taxation. His older advisors urged him to heed their request, but his young friends told him to be even more demanding than his father. As a result of listening to his peers, 10 of the 12 tribes of Israel seceded and formed a new kingdom (2 Chronicles 10:16-17)
Good leaders don’t rely on domineering self-assertion—not at home, nor in church, nor in business. Rather, they balance self-assertiveness (which isn’t wrong in itself) with the principle of submitting to one another (Ephesians 5:21). They listen respectfully, admit when they’re wrong, show a willingness to change, and mix gentleness with firmness. That’s submissive leadership – and it works!
The only leaders qualified to lead are those who have learned to serve.
By: Herb Vander Lugt in Our Daily Bread
PRAY: Confess the times when you haven’t listened respectfully, admitted when you were wrong, shown a willingness to change, or been gentle with those around you. Ask God to give you the wisdom and humility to be a servant to any and all people he has called you to lead.
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