It is recorded of Jehu: "2 Kings 9:20 "Again the watchman reported, he has reached them but hasn't turned back, Also the driving is like that of Jehu the son of Nimshi - for he drives furiously!" Jehu was a man with a prophetic gifting on his life and also divinley appointed by the prophet to be king over Isreal for a time - specifically to depose Ahab and deal with his coniving wife. The happless watchman involved in this story is observing Jehu approach from a distance, and obviously Jehu had a reputation for being a man of passion! Yep thats Jehu alright! look at the way he is driving that chariot up on one wheel! - it seems that passion was evident in this leaders life.
Our first principle of influence is PASSION. As a leader you will have to get a 'fire in the belly' for your God, your ministry, your life and for people. It records in the Gospel that as Jesus was going bezerk in the temple - whipping, slapping, pushing, kicking tables over 'escorting people off the premises' with shouts, yelling and much gusto - the disciples were looking on (I can just see them with mouths open - in the corner of the room) they remembered that it was written "the zeal of God thath consumed me" John 2:17 Where are the leaders consumed with a passion for the 'House of God'? Where are leaders whose lives are defined by passion? - Like Jehu, when people observe you from a distance - they know when your chariot swings by, things are going to get a bit messed up! We must however make allowances for leaders of differing temperaments, maturity and confidence; You may be the 'strong, silent type' - but are you ministering our of a passionate heart for God? I hope so.
Passionate leaders
> Initiate care for God's people - have their eyes/ears/hearts open to the needs around them; move quickly and act practically.
> Will be seen at prayer / worship /services - try and keep them away! they will be heard as well!
> Live out of a passion to support / build / defend / God's house.
> Live generously, dangerously, intentionally, inspirationally, for God.
> Are influencing others around them / drawing them along in their wake!
Is it any wonder when the disciples came to Thessalonica that they were described as the "Ones who have turned the world upside down have come here also!" Acts 17:6 They had been with the one who had so influenced them with His passion - that they became world changers. Stir it up leaders! live from the' fire in the belly'. See how many people you can 'ignite' for God.
Next week: PURPOSE
No comments:
Post a Comment