LEAD ON!

March 1

LEAD ON!

David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.

Psalm 78:72

Are you a born leader? Who are the first people who pop into your mind when you hear the word leader? Got them? OK, now think about the term Christian leader. Who comes to mind now? Is this group the same as the one you thought of before, or is it a different one? If different, what is it that sets these people apart from each other? Is it just the word Christian, or is it something more?

David was known for his integrity. If your actions inspire others, then count yourself among the leaders. But if those actions inspire others to pray and read the Bible more to grow in Christ, you are a Christian leader. You don’t have to be a Joel Osteen, publishing book after book, or a Shannon O’Dell, pioneering the online megachurch with a multicampus ministry. Your actions can be as simple as reading your Bible in the break room at work or praying before you have lunch in your cubicle or on the construction site. People will notice these things! Not only will other Christians look to you for leadership; non-Christians will be drawn to your honesty and integrity. Some may even ask you about your faith. Be ready with an answer, as 1 Peter 3:15 advises.

Don’t be afraid to lead. Embrace each opportunity God gives you to show how a man of God can inspire and embolden the hearts of others to obey the call to action. ♦

PRAYER

Help me, Lord, to be willing to lead by my example …