As you read through the book of Exodus you can’t help but notice how difficult and ungrateful the community of Israel was. The behavior and responses to Moses and to God was just shameful at best. After all, God cleared so many hurdles, provided for their every need yet they continuously complained and murmured. I’m not throwing stones at them that haven’t already hit me smack between the eyes. But, as I re-read the account in account Exodus 15 and 16, I saw a fresh picture of spiritual leadership that frankly convicted my own heart. As a leader, it is easy to focus on the behavior of those we lead, but today as I looked at God’s leadership of His people I see just how much I need to grow in the way I lead.
Exodus 15:13 captures God’s approach well. It shows us how “Love” leads. You see, in spite of their attitudes – love drenched God’s every response towards them.
Exodus 15:13 HCSB
You will lead the people You have redeemed with Your faithful love; You will guide them to Your holy dwelling with Your strength.
When love leads:
- Complaints are heard and valued, even when expressed in a personally offensive manner. (Ex 16:2)
- The leader may be charged with enmity, yet never treats his followers as an enemy but keeps their best interests at heart. (Ex 16:3)
- In the midst of loud complaining and outright disobedience, love still offers stability and redemption to those who will receive it. (Ex 15:13)
- Though people deserve less, love remains faithful to offer more. (Ex 16:11)
Love will always bring strength to our leadership if it has an opportunity to lead. Will those we lead consider 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 as a picture of our leadership? I think it’s a good mark to shoot for. My prayer is that God will help me to be a leader that grows in allowing love to lead!
Pastor David,
It warms my heart to hear your feelings about leadership! You embody what a good leader “knows”.
Today I read in my Study Bible a note on Exodus 18 which says, “Proper delegation can multiply your effectiveness while giving others a chance to grow.”
I see you as a leader who is not only effective, but also has enough love for others that you want to raise them up as well. Thanks for the 100s of hours of Christ-like love that you faithfully use for God’s Glory!