Leadership Void

The idols speak deceit, diviners see visions that lie; they tell dreams that are false, they give comfort in vain. Therefore the people wander like sheep oppressed for lack of a shepherd. Zechariah 10:2

People wander aimlessly due to lack of leadership, though they want to be led. They want to be led by loving leaders who listen to the Lord and listen to them. Look for leaders like Solomon, who petitioned the Lord on how to lead: “Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” (2 Chronicles 1:10). This is God’s design, for He has wired people to resist wandering and to want leadership. You are followers of Jesus Christ and followers of those He has placed in authority over your life. Yet, if someone who is in a position of leadership does not lead, there is doubt and confusion. People wander around, disconnected and disinterested, because they are unsure of where to turn. But eventually, someone will fill the leadership void by default.

Some ambitious soul will fill the empty shoes of leadership even if he or she is unable to lead effectively. A silent coup takes place when the responsible leader abdicates their leadership. An uncalled character, backing into leadership by default, is worse than no leadership at all. The followers can easily lose perspective and settle for less, because their hunger for a leader can cause them to use poor judgment. This happened to the people who begged Samuel for a King, then later regretted their request (1 Samuel 8:4-21).

Therefore, do not settle for anything less than God’s choicest servant as shepherd over His flock. Be prayerful and patient; God will send His called leader in His timing. It is better to have an open position of leadership than to fill it with the wrong person. It is expensive and emotional to extract a lackluster leader. Wait and work toward God’s best.

It may be a pastor, CEO, headmaster, administrative assistant, COO, or spouse that you need; so continue to trust God for His choice. Don’t just fill a slot for the sake of expedience. Make vitally sure their chemistry, character, and competence align with your culture. If you are already in a position of leadership, lead. A good motto is to “lead, follow, or get out of the way.” People expect you to lead, and they are confused if you don’t. What are you waiting for? You will not lead perfectly, but press on. Faithful followers are not looking for perfect leaders, they are praying for honest leaders who have passion and Holy Spirit-led persuasion.

Indeed, leaders who love God and people will never lack a following. Let go of your fear of leading, release control, and have faith that God has placed you in this position of leadership. He equips those He calls to carry out His assignment. You may just lead here for a season, so lead with abandon on behalf of the Almighty. Seek the Lord as the leader of your life, work, family, and ministry. Follow hard after God so you can effectively lead people. Ask Him for wisdom, and stay focused on the mission. Get your marching orders from on high, and then execute them down low. Effective leaders love to lead, and their Holy Spirit-infused energy engages others in shared goals. Perhaps the people are looking to you for leadership. Therefore, on behalf of your Lord, and by His grace, lead. Follow Him and lead them.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, lead me to follow servant leaders who love and follow You.

Application: What leader needs my ongoing prayers and encouragement?