ESOCS Devotional 3 May 2022
TEXT: JAMES 3:13-18
MEMORY VERSE: “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds.” James 3:17 KJV
0 And the apostles, when they had returned, told Him all that they had done. Then He took them and went aside privately into a deserted place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. 11 But when the multitudes knew it, they followed Him; and He received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who had need of healing. 12 When the day began to wear away, the twelve came and said to Him, “Send the multitude away, that they may go into the surrounding towns and country, and lodge and get provisions; for we are in a deserted lace ”
Are you a Church leader or true Christian? Do you have true wisdom, and understand God’s ways? Then prove it: by living an honourable life; doing good works, with the humility that comes from divine wisdom. In this context, Apostle James highlights the wisdom of good Church leaders. They manifest godly conduct in life and ministry work. It is also a proof of those leaders who have taken Christ’s yoke upon themselves. Those who have truly learnt of His meek and lowly ways (Matt. 11:29). They lead with meekness. Ever ready to answer everyone with humility and godly fear (1Peter 3:15). Such will certainly inherit the earth (Matt. 5:5).
In contrast, the hypocrite and ungodly leader manifests strife and division. These are contrary to the teachings of Christ. Moreover, such unwise and ungodly character can only promote envy, strife and tension in the fold.
Wise leaders must lead by being slaves to the needs of others (1 Cor. 16:15-16). Wise leaders do not live as military commanders, but by submission to the needs of others (John 13:1-17). One cannot claim to have true wisdom, unless he brings his life into conformity with the truth of God’s Word (3 John 3).
Note that the divisive conduct of those leaders whose hearts were ungodly, will ever stand against them as witness before the Lord. Every leadership that promotes selfish ambition and division in the ministry, does not originate from God. It is a product of earthly wisdom. It is carnal and demonic (Phil. 3:19). It is after the nature of Satan. Let’s be guided.
- Take an assessment of your leadership style. Does it portray godly wisdom? Or is it characterized by selfishness and fleshly ambition?
- Holy Spirit Divine. You are the perfect teacher of the truth. Direct my steps on the path of true wisdom.
Read Other ESOCS Devotional here
FURTHER READING: 2 Samuel 23:8-23; Jeremiah 37:11-21; Mark 14:53-65
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ESOCS Devotional 3 May 2022
