Prudence: noun \ˈprü-dən(t)s\1: the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason. 2: sagacity or shrewdness in the management of affairs. 3: skill and good judgment in the use of resources. 4: caution or circumspection as to danger or risk.
Origin of PRUDENCE
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin alteration of providentia — see more at providence (i.e. divine guidance or care) First known use: 14th century.
Synonyms: alertness, care, carefulness, cautiousness, chariness, circumspection, gingerliness, guardedness, heedfulness, caution, wariness (Websters online dictionary)
I believe one of the crowning glories of leadership is the attribute of 'Prudence' - this is more than just good decision making or managment savy - But as we can see from Webster's definition, its roots are closley linked to the latin concept of 'providentia' or providence, which is also defined by Webster's as 'divine guidance or care' The 'prudent' leader taps into God's wisdom & seeks divine guidance to lead & care for God's people.
In 2 Chronicles 1:1-13 we find Solomon, King David's son assuming the leadership of Israel, after David has passed away. The scriptures record that he 'strengthened his hold' on the Kingdom; (organised and solidified) 'Spoke to all Isreal;' (communicated & guided) 'Went up to the tent of meeting to inquire of the Lord;' (led by example) 'Offered sacrifices in the Lord's presence;' (sought God's blessing) All of which are tremediously insightful actions in themselves. (I will let you ponder each of these yourself)
That night God appeared to Soloman and got out heaven's 'chequebook' licking the end of his pencil, God says; 'hit me!' What should I give you? - WOW this is a defining moment in Solomon's life! Read his response to God and God's response to him in 2 Chronicles 1:8-13 to paraphrase 'I need your wisdom to lead your people' God's says RIGHT ON! You will get exactly what you have asked for - and i'm writing a personal cheque for all that you didn't ask for! Oh this is gold! are you ready for this? the Hebrew word 'chokmah' (H2451) translated as 'wisdom' means; a) skill (in war) b) wisdom (in administration)c) shrewdness, wisdom d) wisdom, prudence! (in religious affairs)e) wisdom (ethical and religious)(from Strong's Hebrew lexicon)Solomon felt the enormity of the task before him and knew that his greatest need was for 'chokmah' - God's prudent guidance to guide others. As leaders we cannot rely on reason alone, we cannot trust logic by itself, we fail if we trust human managment or corporate principles - if all of these are not subjugated to Divine prudence. Have you prayed? Fasted? inquired of the Lord as Solomon did? waited on God? sought Godly council? If we want to have prudent & powerful infuence as a leader and take people along the path to their destiny, as Proverbs says we will need to: "Get wisdom(prudence) get understanding" Prov 4:5. I remember reading that Billy Graham would read the book of proverbs every month (31 chapters!) as he recognised that without spiritual wisdom residing in his soul he defaulted to schemes, programs, human logic, feelings, peer pressures and this led to flawed and carnal decision making - the impact and damage being the Church & God's people being led away from God's purposes to lesser things.
I trust we will all seek prudent God-provided wisdom in our responsibilities as leaders, and grow in our reliance on this crowning attribute of leadership.
Ps Rhett bids you well!
Next week: The final 'P' of leadership influence = Perserverance
Coming soon new series: 'Developing a Pastor's heart' - Studies from John Ch 10
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