LEADERSHIP IS RESPONSIBILITY

“For the leaders of this people cause them to err, and those who are led by them are destroyed.” ~ Isaiah 9:16

REFERENCE:

Isaiah 9:13-17

Many crave to be in positions of authority and influence, but most are not ready for such. They are attracted to the benefits of office but blinded to its burden. John Maxwell said, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” If someone aspires to be a leader, Maxwell implies that he will ultimately bring everything (people or resources) to his level; either they rise or fall.

Samaria would come under severe judgment because of the error of their irresponsible leaders. Their influence on the people was so bad that the people stopped seeking God but went after falsehood. The young men did not seek God; orphans and widows were so vile that God did not pity them; citizens became liars, hypocrites, and evil-doers. All these reflect our experience as a nation over the years. Subsequent incompetent leaders have turned the citizens into beggars, fraudsters, liars, robbers, and kidnappers.

Leadership is a responsibility for which leaders must give an account before God. Leadership with the wrong focus causes followers to err and leads many to lose focus in life and even shipwreck their faith. Under Aaron’s leadership, Israel went into idolatry, also with Jeroboam. But young King Josiah, at age 8, destroyed idolatry and led Israel back to God. Jesus said, “Whoever causes his ‘little ones’ to err will have a judgment worse than being drowned.”

You are a leader at some level; in your home, office, classroom, or on a project. Somebody is watching you, and their lives are affected by your words, actions, or inaction. Commit not to let anyone who follows you or serves under you err in life or suffer destruction. Take heed to yourself and those you lead; lead them with integrity and skill. Let your life be a message and a model to them. Be kind, courteous, exemplary in goodness, and believe the best about them.

Alphonsus, King of Naples and Sicily, celebrated in history for his leniency and mercy, was once asked why he was so lenient to all, even the most wicked of men. He said, “Because good men are won by justice, the bad by mercy.” Some later complained that he was too kind for a prince. He responded, “What then? Would you have lions and tigers to reign over you? Do you not know that cruelty is the property of wild beasts, mercy that of man?” (Biblical Illustrator)

You are not ordinary or just floating around. There are lives connected to you. Be responsible.

PHOTO QUOTE:

ADDITIONAL TEXTS:

II Kings 17:21-23, I Kings 3:7-10, Matthew 18:6-7 & Matthew 23:13

PRAYERS:

+ Lord, may my life be an aroma of life, peace, and godliness to all those under my influence.

+ Father, take away anything in me that does not look like You or that will cause those I lead to err. Help me bear the responsibility of leadership with all seriousness and gratitude to God.

+ I speak a blessing over all I lead – my family, team, staff, students, etc. They will not err. They will end up fulfilling their purpose and maximizing their potential in Jesus’ name.