Leadership: Embrace the Process
Leadership is a journey of growth, not a fixed state. As Christian men, we are called to embrace this sanctification process, constantly becoming the people God desires. From Abram to Abraham, baby Moses to the man sending Joshua off to victory, Saul to Paul, etc. Scripture shows us transformation through obedience to Christ (Galatians 6:19 and 5:17). We are new creations in Christ, anchored in Jesus' Holy Spirit baptism (John 1:33). We must continue to grow.
This morning, as we head to church, let’s thank God for His abundant grace (John 1:16). God orchestrates, tests, and refines our character, demanding obedience. He uses real people, capable of choosing right or wrong, leading families and sometimes armies to execute His flawless plan. Embrace the call to grow into godly leaders, desiring to reflect Jesus and serve in the body of Christ.
Human nature turns away from God, chasing after evil (Romans 1:24). Ruthless men like Sisera, the commander of Jabin’s army, wield power oppressively, much like modern tyrants (think Ceaușescu). Yet, they are mere men, building fleeting empires. God’s people, however, often wait until desperation to cry out to Him. Instead, we should daily seek God with gratitude, praise, and petitions.
Deborah, Lappidoth’s wife, shines as a judge and prophet during Israel’s 20-year oppression in Judges 4. She, like Barak, is a hero of faith in God (Hebrews 11). When Barak hesitated, lacking courage, Deborah clarified God’s call for him to lead. She boldly obeyed God and encouraged Barak to lead and battle Sisera's seemingly invincible forces. God hears us when we cry out. And God gives honor to His men when we act righteously and obey His way (Judges 4:9). This truth endures: wicked rulers rise, but our eternal God is greater. He hears our cries and honors righteous obedience.
Even in dark times, warriors like Barak rally. God leads. But He requires men to step up. Barak, with Deborah's encouragement and faithful vision, led 10,000 men to fight Jabin's army. God demands that men lead and battle the forces of evil. We fight for our families, communities, and countries, but ultimately, we fight for God.
Men, reject weakness and worldly fear. Lead as Jesus commands, boldly, righteously, obediently. We have free will to follow God’s path or stray. Let’s honor Him by embracing the process, stepping up, and executing His will.
Lord Jesus, thank you for your abundant grace. Thank you for the process of becoming more like you. Help us not to resist the Holy Spirit, but to embrace the process of becoming who you want us to be. Amen.
Meeting my son-in-law, Tyler, for the first time, 2016, Lynchburg, VA (he took us shooting).
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