The Lord, Our Example…

Nearing the end of Psalms we find a poetic passage that highlights several areas about the Lord, declaring why He is worthy to be praised. He is…

Creator of heaven and earth.
Executor of justice for the disadvantaged.
Provider of sustenance for those in need.
Healer of the afflicted.
Exalter of the downtrodden.
Compassionate to the upright.
Protector of strangers.
Supporter of the orphan and widow.
Frustrater of wicked ways.
Ruler of all.

These ten words are laced throughout the Bible and provide strength to the weak, comfort for the discouraged, and protection for the vulnerable.
Leaders understand and practice the same.

Self-aware Leaders…

David often expressed the impact of his actions on his relationship with God. He acknowledges his failings and the division it caused with friends, family and enemies.

In the midst of his penitent suffering, David says of his enemies, “They oppose me, because I follow what is good.”

David exemplifies a leader with self-awareness and reliance upon God.

Godly leaders face many challenges. They often fear people leaving, speaking against them, and facing opposition. Remember to follow what is good, even in the midst of the most difficult challenges.

David concludes, God will not be far away. He is salvation and deliverance.

Fearless Trust…

Throughout many of the Psalms, David writes about his fearless trust in God.

Leaders need a relationship with God that exudes trust in Him to provide everything needed to fulfill His will. How does this develop?

In a word “seeking” Him.

Seek a dwelling in the house of the Lord every day.
Seek to behold the beauty of the Lord.
Seek to meditate in His temple.

If leaders seek these three areas, they develop a greater relationship with God and others.

Relying on the Lord…

David wrote, “My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.” This Psalm provides comfort, reassurance, and confidence.

The challenge is relying upon the promises and living by the hope provided.

We must learn to stop seeking, turning to, going for, or relying upon help based on our experience, education (formal and informal), or close friends.

These are good resources, but our first step should always be the Lord. Why? First, we have a personal relationship with our God. Second, He has authority over and controls all things in heaven and on earth.

He provides the help we need.

Leading with All my Heart…

Throughout Psalms we find the phrase “with all my heart.” 

The Psalmist identifies several key thoughts connected to this phrase.

The most common thought is that of giving thanks. Imagine the power of leadership involved in giving thanks with all their heart. 

The second thought is about seeking the Lord. Spiritual leaders cannot be effective without a drive to seek a relationship with the Lord.

The third thought involves observing God’s law or word. Again, the very foundation of leadership must be based on God’s word.

With all my heart is a study worth applying.