I DON’T LIKE MY LEADER
“Quiet!” Moses replied. “Why are you complaining against me? And why are you testing the Lord?”
Exodus 17:2b (NLT)
When we face trials and difficulties, it’s easy to complain about everything. We want someone to blame. And since we can’t see the spiritual battle going on behind the scenes, we usually aim our frustration at the people right in front of us. Maybe it’s your boss who’s driving you crazy. Maybe you’ve thought, If only my husband would get his act together, we wouldn’t be in this mess. Maybe you’re frustrated with your pastor or ministry leader because you don’t like how they’re handling something. And everyone today seems to be mad at one or both political parties and their supporters. And it’s not just that we disagree with them; they’re the enemy.
The Israelites had to do their complaining face-to-face. But today, with social media, our complaints can reach thousands in seconds. And sadly, too many Christians have adopted the mean-spirited tone of the world. Some even attack other believers in public forums for everyone to see. And the world is watching. The truth is that leaders are human. They are fallen individuals and messed up, just like the rest of us. Sometimes leaders are mistaken, inapt or wrong. Remember when Jethro advised Moses to delegate leadership because he was wearing himself out? Sometimes leaders need perspective. Sometimes they need correction. Sometimes they even need opposition if what they’re doing is ungodly or unjust. But knowing when and how to do that requires great wisdom and discernment. Most of the time, however, what good leaders need is encouragement.
God is the one who allows flawed leaders to lead. He has established institutions like the family, schools, churches, employers and governments for His purposes. When we constantly complain about our leaders, we may actually be complaining against the Lord Himself.
APPLICATION: Search your heart for resentment toward leaders in your life. Don’t complain just to vent. If needed, speak truth in love and humbly offer your perspective. And where you’re leading, be open to correction and be willing to listen. Encourage one another.
PRAYER: Lord, guard my heart from a complaining spirit. Teach me how to honor those in authority, speak truth in love, and trust that You’re at work even through imperfect leaders.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?