Sunday, December 19, 1999 This Week's Lesson:
In this week's lesson, which came from Proverbs 14:28-31, we learned about having self-control and about not being a respecter of persons. Solomon wrote that a king is blessed when a large number of people are willing to follow him. Conversely, he said that a leader is undone when people will not follow him and/or if his or her people have needs that cannot be met. Being an effective leader begins with being a good follower. Those who follow the Lord are best able to lead others. They can lead others to Christ, and they can also be strong anchors when times are tough. Having one's temperament under control is an important commodity for those in positions of authority. A hothead will not be able to handle the pressures of their position, plus they will not be able to maintain a strong sense of loyalty from those in their group. Jesus is the leader of those who follow Christ, and He is worthy. He was sent from above to die on the cross at Calvary for our sins and to bring all people unto Himself. Isaiah 55:4 says, "Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people."
Controlling one's anger is very important. Leaders especially need to control their temper, but it is good for anyone to have himself or herself under control. According to Solomon, one who becomes angry too quickly lacks understanding and also exalts folly. Anger is an indication of one's foolishness. It is also an indicator of the condition of one's heart. A sound heart is like a breath of fresh air, but the heart of one who is envious of others or easily angered by others is full of rottenness and bitterness. Hence, the steps for being under control and being able to lead others are to follow the Lord, to not be easily angered, and to maintain a pure, sound heart. Proverbs 4:23 says, "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." In addition, one should not be a respecter of persons. It is wrong to show greater respect towards those who are more affluent, better dressed, and/or more powerful. James 2:1-4 says, "My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?"
In conclusion, Solomon said that the wise person would be one who is under control at all times. To that end, we should conduct our lives in a godly, orderly fashion and be the right kind of person with others. In the coming week, try to reflect on the elements of Christian leadership and also try to be the person that God wants you to be.
Tom of Spotswood"He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." (I John 5:12)
"And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:13)
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