SCRIPTURE:
“On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. They shouted, ‘This is the voice of a god, not of a man.’ Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.”
Acts 12:21-23
OBSERVATION:
As the king, Herod sure wielded his power in many ways and most definitely with persecution of the Christians and leaders such as James and Peter. It was an abuse of power based on leading by power, dictatorship and fear. As the people shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man,” I wonder if it was based on a true belief rather than wanting to appease him for his granting them peace and food; knowing his coveting recognition of his position, power and authority. Most importantly, his lack of recognizing the power and authority of the Lord, ended with his immediate death.
APPLICATION:
Given my relationship with the Lord and the call, leadership and responsibilities he has placed on my life; first may I not compromise what I know is right, fair and true to appease anyone. Likewise, may I not compromise and misuse my role and abilities as a leader to compromise and appease others’ agendas in order to be liked or to achieve a common consensus, but instead to do the Lord’s will. May I lead, love, and shepherd with vision, encouragement, grace, and support; rather than authority or power. Finally, as the Lord blesses our church in His faithfulness, promises, and hand upon us all, by meeting our needs and enabling us to bring His call to fruition; may I and we always give God the glory and not place ourselves in a place to receive recognition and accolades. We are the vessels and tools that He uses. May I and we not believe the press that might come our way, and not think that we are the reason and basis of success and influence.
PRAYER:
Lord please guide me to be humble in my leadership with what is true, fair and righteous. May I lead by vision, encouragement, grace, relationship and support. May I always give you glory, knowing that all things that are good come from you.
