FOLLOWING ORDERS. By Pastor Fernando

SCRIPTURE
The Levites and all the men of Judah did just as Jehoiada the priest ordered.
2 Chronicles 23:8

OBSERVATION
Jehoiada is one of those unknown heroes of Israel. His name is not usually mentioned and his work goes unrecognized. But this priest changed the history of Israel for good as he set the stage to crown king Joash, one of the best and godliest kings of Judah. Jehoiada came out with a brilliant plant to dethrone Athaliah, a self-proclaimed wicked queen. His plan included the full participation of all the commanders of the army, all the tribal leaders, and the levites and priests. His instructions were clear and comprehensive. Success depended in everyone following the plan. There was no room for disobedience, second guesses, or under minding. Not only their reputations were at risk, their lives were at danger, including the young king's. In this opportunity, everyone follow the instructions, Joash became king, and Judah experienced revival in their relationship with God.

APPLICATION
Sometimes we under estimate the value of following orders, especially in our culture where everyone has an opinion and people feel entitled to do whatever they want regardless of who is in charge. Sadly, things get worse in the church when influenced by a strong western mindset which elevates democracy as the perfect way of governance. God appointed leaders are reduced to people pleasers. Instead of speaking the truth in love, leaders pratice diplomacy. The value of ownership of the many has replaced the value of submission. No wonder why the church has lost its influence in this world. No wonder God's vision gets dilluted. And no wonder the church moves so slow in reaching the world with the Gospel.

Even though we must avoid authoritarian styles of leadership and value collaboration, at the end of the day there are people who are called to make decisions, and there are people that are called to follow them. I always loved the leadership model set by the tale of King Arthur and the Round Table. Everyone was equeal, but at the end of the discussion, Arthur was still the king. In church leadership, everyone is equal and we must respect each other's calling. But also we must respect each other's roles. Sometimes that is missing in the culture of the church! We can have both, a culture of collaboration and a culture of submission.

PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, please help me to respect people's callings as well as their roles in the kingdom of God. Show me where I undermind or second guess those who have a role of authority over me. Also, allow me to create a culture where people respect my calling and also my role as a leader. Show me how to earn the respect of those who are called to partner with me. Refresh my anointing as a shepherd in such a way that those who follow me don't struggle with my instructions or distrust my advice. Help us to advance your kingdom in effective ways. Amen!