Devotion back log

May 21, 2011
Loving Leadership
King Hiram said of Solomon, “It is because the Lord loves his people that He has made you king over them.” (2Ch 2:11) This is the true purpose of leadership; to communicate God’s love to his people. In biblical terms loves equals sacrifice. Who in his right mind would assume the mantle of leadership unless God had appointed him to do so? Certainly rank has its privileges, and many are motivated by wealth, status and power but these are poor compensation for the sacrifice that godly leadership requires. A true leader is one who assumes the position to bless (not fleece) those in his charge. A true leader is a servant and the service of leadership requires the life of the leader. Is it because the Lord loves his people that you are in charge, or is there something more sinister that is motivating you?

May 22, 2011
Blue collar blessings
It takes all kinds to build the kingdom. Huram was a noble craftsman. He was half Hebrew, and half Tyrian (2Ch 2:13), but his name means “noble born.” He was skilled in all manner of construction and he built the temple for Solomon (2Ch 4:16). It would have been easy for Huram to have an insecurity complex about his mixed breeding and his blue collar bent, but he didn’t. He applied himself to perfecting the gifts God had given him and he is ultimately recognized for his great contribution to the kingdom. Too often we try to make “cookie cutter” Christians. We need to believe what Paul writes in Romans 12:6-7 and 1Corinthian 12:4-7. There are many gifts, but one Lord. All gifts are for the common good. All should be appreciated. Don’t feel like a second class citizen in the kingdom because you can’t sing or preach. Use the gifts God has given you to his glory.