I am a history buff.  I love reading about the successes and failures of the past to learn from it.  I am particularly intrigued by courageous leaders who left an imprint in history to make our world a better place to live.  Combatting injustices and fighting for freedom especially captivates my heart. The sacrifices such leaders made, the love they had for humanity, and the humility which they walked in leaves me feeling grateful for their contributions.  But it also inspires me to lead with such passion.

There are many leaders who come to mind that fit this description.  One, in particular, is Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. He was a pastor and well-known for being a civil rights activist.  What distinguished his approach was he did so through nonviolence and peaceful marches. It was one thing for me to learn about him when I was in school.  But it was quite another thing for me to sit in the pew of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia where he ministered and listen to recordings of his sermons.  There was determination, loyalty, and passion all exhibited by a servant of God. Although what he believed in cost him his life, segregation in the United States ended.  The church I attend is as diverse as Rev. King had dreamed and I am eternally thankful.

Leadership is not an easy or glamorous task.  But we can learn a great deal from the ones who embraced it and were successful at it.  

An example of such a leader found in the Bible is Gideon in Judges chapters 8 and 9.  We read how he did so through a myriad of challenges: Gideon was able to pacify the Ephraimites who were offended.  He was victorious in battle against the Midianites. Gideon corrected the men of Succoth and Penuel … to name a few.  When the people recognized his valuable contribution, they requested him to rule their government, but he declined and said the Lord would rule over them.  As a result of his successful leadership, the country was at peace for forty years and he died in honor.

Being a leader requires vision, being able to guide and motivate, and make tough decisions.  But these examples of successful leaders demonstrates that with God’s help, it can be done and impact countless in life-changing ways for His glory.  

Praying you are encouraged today should you find yourself in a leadership role.  As Dr. King said, “The time is always right to do what is right.”
~Joyce