Our source of commitment is also the source of our courage. God-driven men look to Jesus Christ in prayer for conviction and guidance. God is building our character. It takes time. Through God's guidance we prepare to lead. That is, we are granted His perspective as we prepare, assess risk and opportunity, and then embark on His campaign.
America needs courageous leadership. Nay, our families need bold, risk-taking spiritual leaders. We need more Calebs and Joshuas. I saw a post this morning by Elon Musk on the need for school boards in Northern Virginia to stop teaching gender ideologies in elementary school. It’s amazing who God uses to lead.
Many Gen Xers have been waiting a long time to lead. Elon, an Xer himself, got the memo early. I’m thankful for his guts and conviction. And I’m praying that he knows Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Lord Jesus, please use all of us to do Your will today!
The good news is that there is more than enough opportunity for all of us. Opportunity and responsibility at not the issue. Preparation and character are. In every man’s life there are stages of leadership growth and God's commission to go and lead well. God uses whom He wishes, but for certain tasks, He chooses utensils well made and ready for the special occasion (2 Timothy 2:20-21).
When the invitation from God comes to lead you’ll know it. I often think some of the toughest leadership roles are when we have to step into big shoes. Whether the shoes are big or small, I pray you are well prepared.
Joshua was a man of character. He was well prepared for the campaign. When Moses, one of the greatest leaders of all time, died, God said to Joshua, “....the time has come for you to lead these people, the Israelites, across the Jordan River into the land I am giving them” (Joshua 1:2). And Joshua was ready, willing, and able to lead well.
We are mentoring our young men to be ready for God’s commission. First, know that the battle already rages. We don’t have to wait for a declaration of war. Jesus rose from the dead, ascended to heaven where He reigns, and He is building His kingdom. And His enemies will resist until He returns. Whether we acknowledge it or not the game is on. We can waste time and be distracted and self-focused. Or we can get prepared and focused today. We must work on our self-control. Leadership is built on self-control. Without it, you are like a fortress minus the walls.
Second, never give in to your enemies. There are wicked men who seek the downfall of those who love God and the growth of God’s Kingdom. They strive to build their own kingdoms and to increase the grain in their granaries. Never give in to the wicked.
Third, remove the wicked from your teams. If you can remove wicked people from your team, do so without hesitation. If you don’t have that ability or authority do what you can to not associate with them.
Fourth, don’t expect or even desire wicked leaders to invite you to the table. You are light to their darkness and they won’t likely want you near their power and control. So don’t push for a place at the table. God gives us more opportunities than we need. Fulfill the responsibilities you have. Wait for God, for sooner than you think He will add to those responsibilities.
Fifth, be trustworthy, discreet, and hard-working. We give responsibility to those willing to fight and lead well. Be trustworthy and accountable with what you are given to lead now. If that is the role of a young husband, love and serve as best you can. Learn. Invite your wife to marriage classes, and counseling if needed. But work at your marriage. It is more than worth it. If you are blessed with kids then be the encouraging dad that your sons and daughters so desperately need.
Sixth, be patient and soft-spoken. Yes, God’s leaders are courageous and strong, but they have strength under control. There is no need to show off. God knows your heart and your motives. And He knows our capabilities. Jesus invites when He’s good and ready. And Jesus will be with us as we go.
Seventh, speak the truth in love. If you promise something - give it. Don’t wait. Timely wise counsel is effective and good. If you can help someone today. Do it.
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your church and how You build Your people. Please bless our nation with good, godly leaders. And please give us the courage and strength to lead well today.
Amen.
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