WEEK BEGINNING SUNDAY 12th MAY
David was an effective leader in Israel because of his deep-rooted desire to do things God’s way. He made mistakes for sure, but his heart was leaning in the right direction.
The whole issue of effective leadership is of profound importance in the life of a nation. It is also true in planning and organising Church life. It is this matter of becoming a leader with which we are concerned in our readings this week. Starting with David we move on to see what the New Testament has to say about this significant topic.
Read thoughtfully – but don’t think names and go on to criticise people. Then pray for Spirit-filled leaders in our churches.
v 3. Don’t put your confidence in powerful people;
there is no help for you there.
I’m not sure what ‘powerful’ means these days.
Is it the person with a massive Instagram or Twitter following, who can therefore spread ideas or information quickly and effectively?
Or is it the President with his finger on the nuclear button, ready to unleash devastating destruction on a nation?
Or is an internet entrepreneur who controls Facebook?
We will all have different ideas as to what constitutes a powerful person.
The point being made by the Psalmist is that a power-base founded on human wisdom or military might is worthless in the context of eternity.
After the resurrection of Jesus, Peter and John were put on trial because they ignored the instructions of the powerful Jewish leaders. Peter’s response was remarkable – he was putting into practice the words of this Psalm when he said “Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? We cannot stop telling about everything we have seen and heard.” They had an allegiance to a higher and more powerful authority than the Jewish leaders.
It was this same allegiance to God that motivated David. Whether he was facing the giant Goliath, or the murderous tantrums of Saul, or the huge Philistine army, David’s confidence and trust in God was unshaken.
That kind of quiet and unswerving confidence in our loving Heavenly Father will stand us in good stead in a dangerous and fast-changing world.