Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – July 1, 2016
So he sent for him [David] and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. 1 Samuel 16:12-13
An anointed leader is chosen by God, not self-appointed or randomly assigned to a position by man. An anointed leader knows they are called by God, not driven by selfish ambition or the desire to be great. Greatness is reserved for servants of the Lord, who quietly give themselves to purposes greater than themselves. If I strive to be seen or selected for a role—I miss a chance to grow my faith while waiting on the will of God to unfold. Entitled leaders feel the need for a job title so they seem important—while anointed leaders esteem others as more important.
David was minding his own business—being faithful where he was (to his call to shepherd well)—when the Lord called him to shepherd His flock. God’s choice was probably a surprise to those who expected a “better” resume, but infinite wisdom knew the wisdom of selecting a servant with a love for God and a fiery heart to defend and lead God’s people. So Samuel—the man of God—followed the Lord’s leading by anointing David in front of his brothers. Because of their faith, submission and obedience—the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon God’s anointed.
“I have found David my servant; with my sacred oil I have anointed him. My hand will sustain him; surely my arm will strengthen him” (Psalm 89:20-21).
Are you in waiting mode for an opportunity you think is just right for you? Or are you looking and praying for just the right person to serve with you? In either situation be patient, prayerful and opened handed. Trust Jesus and wait on His best—better to be in a storm with Jesus asleep in the boat—than to be on the shore without Him. At any moment Christ can calm the chaos and bring clarity to the confusion—so pray against getting ahead of God. You bring the most glory to the Lord when your joy and contentment are found in Christ, not your circumstances.
The power to lead is not primarily about position, but submission—which positions you for favor from your Savior Jesus. Submit to God’s Spirit to cleanse your heart, fill your soul and lead your life. Submit to the authorities in your life to validate your ideas, protect you from yourself and hold you responsible to steward well the organization’s mission. Anointed leadership leads out of weakness, while leaning into the Spirit for strength. Is your faith fatigued? Ask the Lord for a fresh anointing. Be prepared and trust God that in Christ you are anointed.
“Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come” (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I submit to You, bend my will to Your will and by Your Spirit anoint me for Your service.Application
What thorough preparation do I need—to grow into a leader at the next level?Related Reading
Isaiah 61:1; Zechariah 4:14; Acts 10:38; 1 John 2:20, 27Post/Tweet today
Entitled leaders feel the need for a job title, so they seem important—while anointed leaders esteem others as more important. #WisdomHunters #annointedleaderWorship Resource
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