Friday 5/16/14
I have no idea if they still exist today, but way, way back when I was in middle school, some selected students were appointed as hall monitors. These positions were created because pushing and general horseplay in the halls had either caused injuries or else created fights and disturbances. I’ve noticed throughout the years that there is still a lot of pushing going around in many places, not just in school. Yet, I’m no longer referring to physical pushing, but rather the verbal type. I suspect leaders in many areas of life are convinced that this type of pushing brings results. And though the idea may work in some instances, I believe it does more harm than good. You see, most folks don’t appreciate being pushed in any way, shape, or form. Jesus portrayed his followers as sheep, and sheep do not react well when pushed. It is their nature to follow.
A good shepherd will lead and not push them. This is why Jesus said this about them: A stranger they will not follow, but will flee from him; for they know not the voice of strangers. (John 10:5) A good leader gains the trust of those who follow him. On the other hand, those who have no genuine love for them can push them as hard as they will, but the sheep will not willingly follow. If others follow you even when you don’t push them, it is pretty obvious the Lord has blessed you with good leadership qualities. Sheep are not the smartest critters around but they are wise enough to follow the right leaders. If we are still in doubt on the question of who to follow, a close walk with our Good Shepherd will give us all the wisdom we need. In fact, a good leader, in one way or several, will almost always resemble the Good Shepherd.
Memory Verse for the week: (Hebrews 10:23) Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.
