20/20/20 Challenge Day #32

Today's Reading
Exodus 32
Acts 8:1-25

Exodus 32:25-26

Moses saw that Aaron had let the people get quickly out of control, much to the amusement of their enemies.  So he stood at the entrance to the camp and shouted, "All of you who are on the Lord's side, come here and join me."  And all the Levites gathered around him.

Observation

Aaron and Moses bring to us a contrast in leadership. Aaron's leadership seemed to be about the people, but in reality it was about himself.  Aaron was a people pleaser and although his decision seemingly had the people in mind it was steeped in a hatred for them.  This is evident in the fact that he was more concerned with his own reputation, then he was for their overall well being.  Letting them do whatever they pleased brought horrible consequences to all of them.

Moses, on the other hand, had a deep love for God's people.  This was demonstrated in two ways; first, when he interceded for them (even to the point of putting himself in the place of punishment vs.32), and second, when he was unwilling to play into their demands.  He wasn't concerned with their view of him, but rather their obedience to God, because that is what brings blessing or consequences.

Application

What a powerful reminder of how I am to lead.  Whether it's with my children or the church, I'm tempted to lead in a way that preserves my reputation and my proclivity to be liked.  But, this is not loving the people I'm called to.  Many times love means confrontation, discipline, and a determination not to bend, which doesn't lend itself to being liked.  I continually need the power of the Holy Spirit to guide me in this.  True leadership doesn't get easier over time, in fact judging from the life of Moses, it really gets harder.  Therefore, I must continue to be filled with the wisdom, power and the grace of Jesus to help me.

Prayer

Help me Lord, to be the leader you've called me to be; being obedient to your word.  May I always lead with wisdom, compassion, and love, and may my temptation to be liked not get in the way of the uncompromising conviction to your word and you truth.  In Jesus Name!