10:12 For we dare
not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But
they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among
themselves, are not wise. 13 We, however, will not boast beyond
measure, but within the limits of the sphere which God appointed us—a sphere
which especially includes you. 14 For we are not overextending
ourselves (as though our authority did not extend to you), for it was
to you that we came with the gospel of Christ; 15 not boasting of
things beyond measure, that is, in other men’s labors, but having
hope, that as your faith is increased, we shall be greatly enlarged
by you in our sphere, 16 to preach the gospel in
the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s
sphere of accomplishment.
17 But “he
who glories, let him glory in the Lord.” 18 For not he who commends
himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
The Bible says Moses was chosen to lead Israel because he was
the most humble man available. The Bible also says when you are choosing a
leader he should be a man who manages his own household well. Those two
qualities alone will take you far when assessing whether or not a leader or a
person seeking leadership should be trusted.
I happened to be in the United States last fall leading up to
the election on a work trip with my brother. One of the breakout sessions I
attended was on body language and how to assess people using non verbal clues
and how to conduct yourself so as not to send the wrong non verbal messages.
She knew her subject well and when it was over I couldn't resist asking her (I
told her I was Canadian and it wasn't 'my election's) what she thought of the
two candidates based on what she had presented to us. Beyond her direct answer
to my question she made a statement I will never forget. She said historically
the strongest alpha (dominant) male always wins and based on that she predicted
Trump would win no matter how many blunders he made along the way. Turns out
she was right.
We follow those we perceive to be strong. God says that isn't
the measuring stick. Choose the one who is humble and can manage his own
affairs. Paul was meek (humble) even by their own assessment in Corinth and he
had a proven track record of successful servant leadership. Why then after all
this time and evidence was his leadership being questioned?
The answer is simple and sobering. He had things to say that
needed to be said that they didn't want to hear. Also others were coming along
telling them exactly what they wanted to hear.
Do you know what the Bible says the church will be like at
the end of time, just before Jesus returns? It says the people will gather to
themselves teachers who tell them what they want to hear. Just like ancient
idol worship the people will be looking for puppet leaders who never disagree
with them. Love is not like that. Love tells the truth even if it hurts because
only the truth has positive long term effects. Would you go to a doctor who
tells you what you want to hear instead of what you need to hear? If you would
you are a fool.
Choose truth. Choose honesty. Choose integrity. Choose
humility. Choose the people of influence who have proven over time they aren't
out for themselves and have your best interests at heart. "You will know
the truth and the truth will set you free" – Jesus
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