Sunday I taught on Titus 1:5-9 on the qualifications of church leaders. I knew that “leadership” in general is a difficult topic in an environment where ‘independence’ is king. Not many of us like the idea of submission and obedience. We don’t like to turn over our rights to allow someone else to tell us what to do, or to give us direction without input. Ours is a very ‘democratic’ community where popular opinion and the voice of the people is what directs our way.

Clearly, nothing is wrong with democracy, or group-think, or team-work. But please don’t misunderstand God’s clear teaching on leadership. There’s leadership in the family, the government and yes, the church.

In preparation of leading our church through the study of Titus 1, I first of all looked at a few other scriptures to give us a sense of God’s standard of leadership for the church. Among the passages was Hebrews 13:7 and 17.

“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” And later in 17… “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”

Honestly, I rather thought this a hard teaching, due to the times we live in. But, I soon discovered that people are hungry for leadership. They’re hungry for direction. We all need encouragement on the things that are right, on things that God has already established and put into place. Things like leadership. Leadership in the home, at work, and yes, even within our church.

Leadership: it’s not really a hard thing. It’s the right thing. Leaders, go ahead and lead. No apologies, no hesitations. Step it up. People are counting on you.

Okay, here’s a swing at blogging. I know I’m a little late on the scene, but it’s worth trying. I’m experimenting with a blog on google and this one on wordpress. I’m thinking I may have one that’s for leadership and pastoring, and another that’s more personal, a place to spout off. Not sure it’s good to try to keep both. My guess is, they’ll converge into one mess. Any bloggers out there with some free advice? Let’s give this a shot.

In 1 Samuel 23:1-5, you get 4 great leadership tips in the first 4 verses. At this point in his life, David is “the King w/o a Throne”, or better, “the King on the Run”. When “they” told David about an injustice, we learn just how David took the right actions. You can see some basic principles in leading.

1. Ask God specifically. (v2) What’s up with the “God bless my ministry” or the “God, please, please, please give me direction” kind of vague prayers? David brought the exact need to God. Be specific in what you’re asking for on behalf of those you’re leading. This might be the most convicting part for me.

2. Listen for clarity. (v2) Really, how often do we ask, then cut and run on our own before ever hearing from God? We’d all like to think that God answers within just a few moments, sometimes He does…sometimes not. Wait and listen, for the sake of those you’re serving.

3. Don’t let your followers distract you. (v3) Yep, they have a serious faith issue, but they’re also being honest enough to say, ‘no, we don’t think so’. He didn’t bull his way through without giving them a voice, but neither did he stop short of leading them. The plans didn’t change because of timid followers.

4. Bring fears and doubts to God for confirmation of the call. (v4) This is real life. Stuff happens, doubts, fears, agendas, they all can muffle the voice we thought we heard. Isn’t it great that God allows us…no, He invites us back for the confirmation of the call?