You read that passage right! After all the Israelites have been through first in Egypt, then the wilderness, then in captivity in Babylon, they might now get eaten! “Come, wild animals of the field! Come, wild animals of the forest! Come and devour my people!” Surely, I’m missing something. God must have been talking to the oblivious leadership. Right?
“For the leaders of my people—the Lord’s watchmen, his shepherds—are blind and ignorant.” I’m sure we’ve all known leaders that don’t appear to be the brightest bulb on a string of Christmas lights. If not ignorant, we’ve probably encountered leaders who are more interested in their own power and prestige often leaving those they lead unattended or unled. Apparently, God isn’t impressed by this type of leader.
It surprised me a little bit to see that described in such detail in the Bible. The description was brilliant though. I can just see the leaders blowing off their “duty” to go play and take advantage of their position of authority. It’s sad when we see leaders failing their people so blatantly.
We don’t see any flipside description of what good leadership looks like in this passage. However, there is mention of the godly dying young. I never realized that the old saying, “only the good die young” had Biblical roots. Did you know that? Billy Joel, Queen, and Iron Maiden, for example, have all written songs incorporating these words into their lyrics. These are secular musicians!
Whether I die young or in my old age, I want to have lived a life that is pleasing to God. I don’t want him to be disappointed in me. I know that my good works don’t get me into heaven or anything. I just want God to say, “Good job!” when I meet him face to face. I want to do my part to make sure there are more of us meeting up in heaven. Here’s another good reason: “For those who follow godly paths will rest in peace when they die.”
So what qualities would you identify that a good, god-fearing leader should possess? Patient. Strong. Smart. Adaptable. Talented. I’m sure you’ve thought of some great adjectives, too. Here’s a few tidbits I found in the Bible.
Set a Good Example (Hebrews 13:7) “Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.”
Be a Servant (Matthew 20:26) “But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant…”
Be Attentive (Proverbs 27:23) “Know the state of your flocks, and put your heart into caring for your herds…”
Be Capable and Honest (Exodus 18:21) “But select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten.”
I could go on and on, but you get the idea. The Book of Titus has a great passage about church leadership, as does Acts 6:2-4. Read Titus 1:7-14 here.
Read Acts 6:2-4 here.
What kind of a leader are you? What kind of a leader do you want to be?
Let’s pray … Lord, I thank you for being able to spend time with you in your word. Thank you for speaking to my heart. I feel like you have empowered the leadership part of my being and feel stronger each day. I know I am never alone. You are with me, cheering me on, showing me the way. Give me eyes to see and a heart to accept your direction. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
