Slices
Prepare
Reflect on leaders that you know. Which qualities do you most admire in them? What is most important?
Bible passage
David’s last words
23 These are the last words of David:
‘The inspired utterance of David son of Jesse,
the utterance of the man exalted by the Most High,
the man anointed by the God of Jacob,
the hero of Israel’s songs:
2 ‘The Spirit of the Lord spoke through me;
his word was on my tongue.
3 The God of Israel spoke,
the Rock of Israel said to me:
“When one rules over people in righteousness,
when he rules in the fear of God,
4 he is like the light of morning at sunrise
on a cloudless morning,
like the brightness after rain
that brings grass from the earth.”
5 ‘If my house were not right with God,
surely he would not have made with me an everlasting covenant,
arranged and secured in every part;
surely he would not bring to fruition my salvation
and grant me my every desire.
6 But evil men are all to be cast aside like thorns,
which are not gathered with the hand.
7 Whoever touches thorns
uses a tool of iron or the shaft of a spear;
they are burned up where they lie.’
Explore
Much of my ministry has involved training people for Christian leadership. Although skills and competencies are vital, much more important has been encouraging them to develop a godly character. Ultimately it is this that matters the most.
We see this in these last words of David. The Spirit of God speaks to him about what true leadership looks like for God’s people (vs 1,2). Just as God is righteous and just (Psalm 11:7), so God’s king must display such character. Godly leadership is based on the fear not of men but of God (v 3).
I love the rich metaphors found in verse 4. What does godly leadership bring to the world? Light where there is darkness, warmth like sunrise on a cold morning, renewal and refreshment like rain to a thirsty land. Have you experienced leadership like this in your own church? In the nation?
David concludes by reflecting on the covenant God had made with him (v 5; 2 Samuel 7). God’s promises had been solid and secure. The Lord honours the righteous leader. Those, however, who endanger God’s people are like useless thorns. The day will come when they will be cast out (vs 6,7).
Respond
Paul calls us to pray for those in authority over us (1 Timothy 2:1,2). Name your leaders before God, that they may lead with righteousness.
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: Jeremiah 25,26; John 10
Pray for Scripture Union
Pray for Mission Partner Artless as they launch ‘Prodigal’, their boldest evangelistic project yet. Blending theatre, music and live cinema, it reimagines Jesus’ parable for churches, theatres and universities and will tour the UK. Pray that they will stay in tune with the Holy Spirit throughout the journey
