When in charge, take charge

God held Eli, the priest, accountable for his failure to lead. He knew that his sons were abusing their positions of power by robbing the people and seducing young women (1Sam 2:22). He rebuked them, but he never removed them. His nepotism caused him to honor his sons more than he honored God (1Sam 2:29). Ultimately, God judged Eli and his family because his sons were blaspheming God and he failed to discipline them (1Sam 3:13). Failure to lead is a serious offense. God expects us to use our influence to bring glory to him and to minister to his people. Certainly, the sons’ overt sins deserved judgment, but God also held Eli accountable for his passive response. “Since we all have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly…he who leads, with diligence.” (Rom 12:6-8)