Loyalty to God - Kindness to All
Our development as godly leaders matters greatly. Many organizations permit and enable horrible and foolish people to maintain positions of authority. We see that in politics as well. Once power is attained, good luck getting people to relinquish it. I’m encouraged by companies that have effective practices to take swift action to address bad actors. The Founding Fathers of America built wise checks and balances into the Constitution to promote good governance. As a young securities lawyer and then as a Deacon in our church, I learned early on that Robert’s Rules of Order was designed to bring order out of chaos. Thank God for leaders willing to help others be disciplined and productive. Let's work at that this morning.
Whether you are a wily veteran or a green rookie, we must all hone our skills. You are never too good for the basics. God is gracious to the humble (Proverbs 3:34). We come by what God and the community think of us honestly. The Bible says that we earn the honor or shame associated with our name (Proverbs 3:34-35). You may say you don’t care. Well, I think it matters, that’s why I’m appealing to all Christian business leaders to take the good path, the straight path. Big or small, seek God’s way. “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand” (Zechariah 4:10).
God wants all people to learn to live disciplined and successful lives. The truth is, like sheep, we need a Shepherd. We need help to do what is right, just, and fair. We need God’s help as leaders to choose and serve wisely; and to earn the reputation God wants for us.
Contentment in Christ is satisfaction. We have the good life when we follow God’s way. But when we chase selfish ambition, when greed is our master, we achieve the opposite of our goals. Greed robs us of everything good - it robs us of life (Proverbs 1:19).
Let’s choose today to fear Almighty God who reigns in heaven. Choose to love knowledge and growth. Choose to heed God’s way and accept His correction. Be willing to ask a friend today for advice. What can we do better? Where does it appear I am rebelling against God's way out of arrogance or ignorance. Like a good friend, sharpen the wisdom of those who ask for help.
We need reminders because we are prone to forget. We drift. We daydream. But whether we are on vacation, shopping locally, working, presenting to an industry group, alone in a hotel room, or in the pew - in all situations we are to remain steadfast in God’s commands. We are to keep loyalty and kindness close at hand.
God is the Masterful Conductor. He writes, plans, and, orchestrates better than we could hope or imagine. As our God and Savior, Jesus is much more than our legal counsel. Yes, He pleads our case (Lamentations 3:58). But if we seek God, He will show us which path to take. He’s our leader, our example, our master. He's our LORD.
Jesus promised to return. He will. That’s great yet fearsome news. For Jesus will return and judge and reward all people according to our faith shown in deeds. Jesus commands us to lead well. And by our obedience, our wisdom or foolishness will prove true. I know these are troubled times. Yet I trust they are good and glorious times. For little is new under the Sun. We can and must trust in God. For it is Jesus who decides what share you and I get in the tree of life (Revelation 22:12-21).
Now is a time of great upheaval, but I pray also a time where the church shines for what she is meant to do and be. It's a time for revival and Kingdom growth. Jesus reigns. And He expects us to be those who explain with gentleness and respect the truth of His love and command for repentance and godly living for all people. We must reject what the world offers and depend on God alone. Prayer to our God and Savior for guidance and dependence on God is the constant key to our leadership success.
Thank You, Jesus, for this day and Your way. May we give glory to You by what we do today. Amen.
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