16 of the 50+ Leadership Lessons from Moses in Exodus 3

Leadership Lessons from Moses

1.     Leaders guide their organization towards God

2.     Leaders recognize and respond to God's prompting.

3.     Leaders are called and prompted by God despite our past transgressions: Moses committing murder (1:2).

4.     Leaders observe inquisitively, avoid unfounded premature assumptions, while appreciating and having awe when applicable.

5.     Leaders recognize we must turn, change direction.

6.     Leaders recognize the necessity of responding to the Lord immediately.

7.     Leaders observe details and inquire of the unknown.

8.     Leaders remain available, responding to those seeking them.

9.     God engages Leaders when we turn to Him, observe, and inquire.

10.  Leaders fear God. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom."

11.  Leaders listen to the whole message without interrupting (See Rick Meyer's blog post, "Do you finish God's sentences?")

12.  Leaders recognize and confess our inability to achieve significance on our own.

13.  Leaders worship God

14.  Leaders tell God they accept His assignments

15.  Leaders think and plan ahead of possible questions and objections from those they lead.

16.  When responding to God's call, humble Leaders expect God to provide the necessary answers--as God deems appropriate.

Coach Lyle Claussen

During last night’s visit about upcoming workouts, Coach shared how he as a substitute teacher in southeast Nebraska put the local all-star football players in their place during class (keep reading). This caused my reflecting on his many lessons over the years. Too many to cover here.

I first met Lyle when I moved to Kearney, NE after graduating from Kansas State in 1990. Before a local 5K in June he turned around and warmed-up with me, we have been friends since.

He transformed University of Nebraska—Kearney, then Kearney State College, from an average men’s NAIA cross country program to one of the nation’s best, regardless of division.

I once asked this member of the South Dakota Hall of Fame who has spoken at a multitude of Coaching Clinics across America, “Is there is a race distance or track event that you have not been asked to speak about at a clinic?”

“Yes, the javelin and the hammer throw. But those are easy, get out of the way…” Lol

As a coach, he modeled for his NCAA Div II teams with five top eight and three top four national championship finishes in six years little things such as to stand back from the luggage carousel at the airport until your bag has arrived. Many business people fail to understand this simple concept. It’s about awareness and respect of others.

He insisted that his top teams and All-American runners run absolutely no more than three abreast, preferably two abreast, keeping the pack in tight formation near the curb or side of the road while running down the streets and the roads facing traffic. It’s about awareness, safety, and respect for others.

Yesterday (Tuesday 08/29/2016), he stopped lecturing during class while serving as a long-term sub. He then stood in front of the class with his arms crossed. Most of the class focused their attention on him. The two star athletes continued visiting. He stood silent until they became silent.

“Have you two believed you’re deserving of special attention (or favor) all of your life or are you being obnoxious because I am a substitute teacher?”

They remained silent.

Coach continued, “Yes, I am a coach (he assists with cross country and track) and I like athletes. In fact, because I am a coach and like athletes, I have much higher expectations for those who are athletes in my classes. So far, you two have failed to reach the lowest standard for any student.” (May not be verbatim, yet close.)

The all-star athletes and the rest of the class were stunned.

“You should have seen some of their eyes and facial expressions.”

If you're a standout in any specialty, the more that is expected of you by your peers in all of life.

Choose high performance over highly arrogant and obnoxious behavior.

Effective Leadership Requires Humility

Effective leadership requires humility (James 1:9; 1 Pt 5:6). A leader with a humble heart demonstrates a discerning, hearing heart[1] as illustrated by Solomon’s request upon becoming king of Israel (1 Kings 3:8). 

The person with a discerning and hearing heart submits to and obeys the indwelling Holy Spirit residing in believers in Jesus Christ (Rom 8:11, 15:13). The Holy Spirit provides specific and general guidance with the humble leader through various modes such as promptings, circumstances, and other people.

Pride, arrogance, greed (2 Tim 3:1–5), complacency, and fruit of the flesh (Gal 5:19–21) contradict God. Leaders who demonstrate these qualities possess inaccurate hearing and discernment. 

These self-centered attributes increase leaders’ desires to speak instead of Christo-centrically listening to God and humans, as well as accurately evaluating messages within their proper contexts.

The heart humble before Christ (1 Pt 5:6) fully pursues God, who releases everything, in all dimensions, congruent with His will (Mt 6:33). Acknowledging and praising Christ, who possesses the entirety of creation and eternity, assures that one’s heart remains in Him (Lk 12:34).

Love-derived praise and obedience to Christ directs the synchronous leading of those whom God assigns to the leader to guide (Mt 22:37–40). The leader’s effectiveness highly correlates with receiving and activating the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22–23). 

The antithesis of effective leadership is the fruit of the flesh (Gal 5:19–21), leading others to darkness (Prov. 1:8–19) instead of to the light of Christ.   

Background

The person with prudence seeks the proper context of messages to assure accurate discernment. Social media posts reflect microcosms of leadership and society, including the inaccurate responses because of improperly defining the context. 

For example, social media posters highly criticized the blank facial expression of Eli Manning, the younger brother of Denver Bronco’s quarterback Peyton Manning, following Denver’s touchdown near the end of Super Bowl 50. 

The criticizers accused Eli of being jealous of Peyton, since a Denver win would enable Peyton to match Eli’s two Super Bowl victories as quarterback of the New York Giants.[2]

Yet Eli said people misread him; he was wondering only whether Denver should go for the two-point conversion. The criticism and conviction arose from arrogance, pride, and complacency preventing viewers and listeners from considering all factors to attain the situation’s full context.

Humility-derived submission, obedience, acknowledgement and praise of Jesus Christ directs one’s relationships with those whom God assigns us through His word and His will. 

Effective leadership requires humility, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to synchronously lead and serve God’s people with effective listening, discernment and seeking the proper context to always serve and glorify God. 

Therefore, the effective leader—individually and within the organization—creates and encourages a culture of humility before God. The effective knows the purpose of hearing and obeying is to serve and glorify the Lord Jesus Christ.

---

[1] Thomas L. Constable, “1 Kings,” ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 494.

[2] O'Leary, Daniel. Eli on Super Bowl face: I was thinking about going for two MSN Sports.

February 09, 2016. http://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl (accessed February 09, 2016).

Servant Zone

Life's great joys reside in the Servant Zone. Serve whoever God places in your path with skills to enhance their relationship with Christ Jesus.

Thursday night @ Denver International, a mother of three waited to board the plane to Salt Lake City (her kids remained with relatives). Less than two hours before, she receive a phone call revealing her husband, a professional race car driver, severely crashed--that is All that she knew.

She was grateful to receive my prayers and the prescription of scripture. I shared that I could not promise physical results, however God does promise inner-peace beyond human understanding when we know and trust Him. She already knew Him.

Last night, Jenny gleefully introduced me to her husband, Mark, as they deplaned in Denver. He wore a neck brace with no broken bones, yet in much pain.

The Holy Spirit often guides our timing while opening our eyes, ears, hearts and mouth to serve Him in serving His people. All glory belongs to the God the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit--one God, three persons, co-equal, co-eternal.

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve, Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com

Am I Applying the Greatest Knowledge?

Most of us have heard that knowledge is power, and ultimately we must apply this knowledge. Most of us have heard this enough times that we can repeat in our sleep.


I have previously written and spoken about the comparison of Potential and Kinetic Energy with Potential and Kinetic Knowledge. Both contain power, however kinetic (released or moving energy) produces results. Water behind a dam equates to potential energy while, released water equates to kinetic energy. Released water may produce electricity, move soil, run a mill, drive an old steam engine or a plethora of other possibilities.
Do you and I efficiently apply our knowledge? Prudence suggests you apply / live your most valuable knowledge, always. How do you rate your accumulated knowledge? You probably rank the most valuable knowledge as that which will make you the most money or provide the greatest enhancement to your life.


My greatest, most powerful, most valuable knowledge resides in the Lord Jesus Christ as my savior because of His death and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins. The knowledge includes the relationship with the other members the Godhead trinity, the Father and the Holy Spirit. This knowledge and relationship includes knowledge of the God's inerrant Word of the Bible—the Holy Scriptures.


If you or I value any of our other knowledge greater than the knowledge of God the Father, Son (the Lord Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit; then we place greater value in the other knowledge than in God and eternal life. Does anything in all of creation exceed God?


Knowing—believing—God the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit is the greatest knowledge anywhere in creation, anytime in eternity. Consequently, we should always apply our greatest knowledge; this knowledge includes prayer, worship, praise, studying and internalizing greater depth of God's word and living it every millisecond, always.


Please join me in craving the greatest knowledge, the knowledge of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. I invite you to apply this most powerful knowledge in all of eternity, every moment of your life.


See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ in the living your knowledge of Him!
Rick E. Meyer
www.rickEmeyer.com




 

Every day is Good

Always be positive. Every day is good, some are better. ~ Allen Schroeder

Last week I heard of my friend's death. For proper perspective on his frequently declared above statement, Allen's father died when Allen was in early grade school. He served in WWII and later achieved significant business success.

In my last visit with him and his wife Mary Ann in July 2011, I stopped by their home unannounced in route to the airport, Allen told of having a heart attack. The Doctor in Omaha approached his bed, "You're a Christian, aren't you."

"Yes, how did you know?"

"By your internal peace, Christians are always more peaceful when facing death."

 

Naturally, I remain grateful for he—at age 79—and Mary Ann driving 175 miles to my dad's funeral in December 2006.

As we journey through 2013, remember Allen's advice: Always be positive. Every day is good, some are better.

 

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!

Rick E. Meyer

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.

www.rickEmeyer.com

 

Leader Servant

 

Personal Philosophy of Leadership (Excerpt)

Leader Servant¹

The Mission

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ! Success is achieving Christ's will, through the Father by the power of the Holy Spirit for one's life, perpetually seeking and attaining the necessary wisdom, knowledge, and understanding (Mt. 6:33, 7:15-23; Jn. 5:30). God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are perfect—complete—consequently God's will for my life, and everyone's life, encompasses each aspect—membership, citizenship, relationship, endeavor—of one's life. God's Will creates and allows actions and consequences symbiotically interacting with everything according to His wisdom. Christ's will includes the will of the Father (Mt. 7:21), possessing God's full depth and breadth in our every thought, action, and interaction. I strive to remain humble before the Lord, trusting He will lift me up (James 4:10).

Leader Servant

The greatest among you shall be your servant (Mt. 23:11). 
   

The Leader Servant seeks submissive synchronization with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to help others achieve Christ's will for their lives (Mt. 6:33, 7:15-23, 22:37-39; Jn. 5:30).

My Leadership Philosophy seeks serving Christ by serving others, striving to represent God's image (Gen. 1:27). The Leader Servant responds to loving God with all of one's heart, mind, and soul, while loving others as much as one loves themselves by serving mankind (Mt. 22:37-39). Through this response, the Leader Servant recognizes the Holy Spirit as the one who influences people, while often using man's service as catalysts (Jn. 16:8; Acts 2; Rom. 9). People whom God places on similar courses with the Leader Servant favorably respond because God offers the greatest results, the richest fulfillment possible. People rebuke the Leader Servant if he fails to seek synchronization with Christ, thus he ignores or rebukes Christ or if the organizational members rebuke Christ (Jn. 15:18).


The Leader Servant recognizes the triune God--the Father, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit—as Creation's CEO. The Leader Servant grows through Bible study, prayer, fellowship, hardship, trials, tribulations and victories to the Spiritual Mature. As a Spiritually Mature Christian, the Leader Servant effectively becomes a Vice President of Serving in God's kingdom. His spiritual growth enables quick discernment and responsiveness to Christ's commands, possessing flexibility with a plethora of abilities, humility before the Lord, along with an abundance of trust and obedience. Ultimately, he recognizes the duality of privilege and responsibility of serving others with Christ. Serving includes continual teaching by example, written and verbal communication among the array of technology.

Leading

Jacqueline Harrill writes on Facebook (2 Dec. 2012), Let us believe: We are stewarding our blessings well, so that we may refresh and replenish the world! When God gives us extraordinary favor it is for the sake of those around us. As favor increases, so must our attitude of gratitude, otherwise the sense of entitlement will strip us of our character.


My leadership experience includes leading and winning numerous races over the years along with running with and finishing among the top ½ percent in several international races. Many similarities exist between leading races and leading organizations. People follow those with common purpose, goals, dreams and destinations. The runner leads because his ability, preparation and desire to lead exceed those whom follow. The organizational leader resides in the front, because he (or she) gives the greatest effort in the cause of the event or organization. The greatest effort typically results in the combination of preparation and willingness to exert in the prescribed period—months, years, or decades. Yes, we must steward our blessing of extraordinary favor well, for the benefit of those around us. David's preparation for killing Goliath included obedience to, confidence in, and reliance on God while developing skills in killing lions and bears, and perfecting his sling shot skills while herding sheep.


Preparation and love generated desire assures perpetually striving to serve those whom God places in our path, even if only to open a literal door. Jack Welch once observed, "Every conversation is an interview." Any conversation may affect, directly or indirectly, one's relationship of any nature. The examples of Moses killing the man when he believed he and the victim were alone, and David committing adultery with Bathsheba display that every interaction affects our ability to serve, along with the perception, results and consequences to and from those we serve. The Leader Servant becomes the aroma of Christ to the world (2 Cor. 2:15-16), this aroma attracts people because of the Holy Spirit in the Leader Servant.


Evangelism and ministering begin with serving. Pride, self-centeredness, saturates the market-place. In reversal, serving in the marketplace focuses on elevating the spiritual, emotional, relational, recreational, and financial positioning of those encountered towards the Lord Jesus Christ. Attracting others raises the servant as the leader of those possessing—or desire to possess—the performance, achievements and intangible attributes of the servant. Serving with love, forgiveness, and a burning desire for others' success, results in them inviting the servant to the front as their leader. Discover the heart of men and women by observing the heart of those whom they choose to follow—their leader. Watching the success of those I assist offers amazing joy and fulfillment, equaling or surpassing the joy of personal achievement.


Helping people achieve Christ's will for their life demands watering them with the Word of God, fertilizing with prayer, fellowship and necessary associations. Necessary associations recognize that as iron sharpens iron, so one Leader Servant sharpens another Leader Servant (Prov. 27:17). Considering Christ's command to love others equally as ourselves, I strive to share, teach and grow each success attribute I internalize and apply as Leader Servant with those whom I serve based on their specific needs in the appropriate moment. This assistance includes evaluating and measuring—as best possible—the tangible and intangible attributes of those served. We compare these to the necessary attributes for success in the area where one feels led. The Leader Servant works with the served in developing a plan to move and improve in the called direction. The Leader Servant assists with discernment regarding necessary commitment level, the duration of pursuing, and other options to include or elevate one's success.

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickemeyer.com
  

Dr. Stanley D. Toussaint, Class Lecture Fall 2012, BE106B Acts and Pauline Epistles, DTS
² (Toussaint n.d.)
³ (Leadership Observations in the Life of David 2012), (Leadership Observations in the Life of Nehemiah 2012), (Leadership and Moses: Exodus 3:1-13 2012)
⁴ (Meyer, Leadership Observations in the Life of David 2012)
⁵ (Welch and Byrne 2001)

Leadership Observations in the Life of Nehemiah

Nehemiah

1. Nehemiah consulted with his brothers and other men from Judah (1:2)

Leaders consult with peers, which may include family.

2. Nehemiah inquired of the Jews who escaped and survived captivity and Jerusalem (1:2)

Leaders are concerned of others well-being.

Leaders are concerned about foundational and symbolic cities and/or geography.

Leaders are cognizant of other's circumstances—(surviving and escaping).

3. Nehemiah learned of the wall of Jerusalem being broken and its gates burned. He wept, mourned, fasted and prayed for days before God (1:3-5)

Leaders understand the significance of physical structures:

1. Spiritual – The wall in those days signified the strength of one's god. Thus a destroyed and burnt wall reflected poorly upon God.

2. Geographical

3. Societal

4. Political

5. Emotional

6. Relational

Leaders wholly, authentically invest themselves in others' lives—weeping and mourning for days

Leaders submit themselves to God (Nehemiah uses your servant (NASB) eight times in the first chapter in referring to himself, the Jews and Moses)

Leaders pray to God

Leaders fast before God

Leaders seek God in recognizing, acknowledging, and speaking God's awesomeness

1. Nehemiah reminds God of His covenant and loving kindness for those obedient to Him (1:6)

Leaders understand the consequences of disobedience to God.

Leaders understand the significance of obedience to God.

Leaders seek God's attention when praying

Leaders Know God's Word, and Character--as much as humanly possible--which is a lifelong, perpetual gaining and growing.

1. Nehemiah confesses sins of sons of Israel and himself (1:6-10)

Leaders confess personal sins

Leaders confess corporal sins

1. Nehemiah approaches the King, and was afraid (2:2-3)

Leaders appropriately acknowledge their fears

Leaders appropriately avoid confessing their fears, unless and until necessary.

Leaders are honest, even when honesty could result in ridicule or death from the superior (in this specific case, the King).

Leaders are humble and respectful before their superiors.

1. Nehemiah prays to God while conversing with King Artaxerxes (2:3-5).

Leaders humble themselves before the Lord (James 4:17)

Leaders recognize and acknowledge human inadequacy apart from God.

Leaders rely on God

Leaders inquire of opportunity

Leaders oppose those who oppose God

Leaders are bold

1. Nehemiah responds to the Kings inquiries with specifics (2:6-8)

Leaders plan diligently

Leaders effectively deliver their proposal to the necessary people.

Knew and provided a definite duration of the journey

Summarization of Leadership Principles

Nehemiah serves in upper management with King Artaxerxes, as his cupbearer. Consequently, a self-centered leader would lack concern for others, especially those who lack adequacy to aid one's secular gain. Conversely, Nehemiah's God-centeredness immediately illuminates as he inquires of his brother and peers regarding the status of the Jews who survived and escaped captivity and about Jerusalem. Nehemiah deeply grieves for days over the destruction of Jerusalem's wall because of its spiritual and societal implications. He recognizes this results from disobedience to God, the vulnerability of the Jews without the wall, and the symbolism of God appearing weak to society. Nehemiah responds with fasting and prayer, along with confession of sins of him and the Jews as a whole. He pleads to God, reminding God of the covenant, including God's promised response of the Jews obedience and disobedience. Nehemiah diligent planning included prayer while speaking to the King, this also provided God's favor before the King. Nehemiah responded to the King's questions with specific plans, including the necessary approval letters of others in authority over his route to Judah. Nehemiah's leadership displays the significance of loving God, including his people (Deut. 6:5; Mt. 22:37-40). His leadership and vision relies on knowing God's word, the necessity of obedience, preparation and prayer.

Admirable skills/principles noted before engaging the King

1. Nehemiah is concerned about the Jews and Jerusalem
   1. Nehemiah records specifics of month, year, and location of inquiry (1:1)
   2. Nehemiah consults with peers and experts (1:2).
   3. "I asked them concerning the Jews who had escaped and had survived the captivity, and about Jerusalem. (1:2)
2. Nehemiah responds to destruction and disobedience with grief for days, before God.
   1. Sat down
      1. Lack of physical strength caused from deep mourning
      2. Displays long duration of events
   2. Wept
   3. Mourned
   4. Fasting
   5. Praying
3. Nehemiah submits to God
   1. "I beseech You, O Lord God of heaven the great and awesome God" (1:5)
   2. Acknowledges God's covenant for those who obey
   3. Seeks God's ear
   4. Confessing personal sin
   5. Confesses organizational sin
   6. Acknowledges consequences of disobedience
   7. Acknowledges God's character in stating God's past use of power and deliverance.

 

Admirable skills/principles noted while engaging the King
 

1. Despite being afraid (2:2), Nehemiah responds with honesty
2. Humble and respectful before the King, his earthly superior.
3. Clearly articulates his concerns to the King
4. Prays to God during the dialogue
5. Specifically states his request of and desire to rebuild the Jerusalem wall
6. Provided the King a definite time of duration for the journey
7. Specifically requests the necessary letters of governors to allow his passage into Judah
       

Personal Application

Nehemiah's God-centeredness begins in this passage with him caring about the Jews who escaped and survived, as well as Jerusalem. The power of this is amplified when recognizing Nehemiah's lofty position of cupbearer for the King. Self-centeredness responds with, "Why care about others as long as I have it good?" I, like Nehemiah, need to focus on my relationship with God as this internalizes the instinctive concern of God's people and property.

Nehemiah verifies his authentic concern of the Jews, Jerusalem, and the destroyed wall's causative perception of God by responding in weeping, mourning, fasting, and praying for days. False concern(s) endures briefly at best. I strive to follow in Nehemiah's example of response by grieving and praying over the hurts of peers, and the world's perception of God's kingdom.

Additionally, I seek to follow Nehemiah's example of prayer, including confession my sins, and the sins of the organization. Nehemiah provides a terrific example of knowing current application of God's word, character, and past actions, including responses for disobedience and obedience. I also seek to follow Nehemiah's example of offering myself and the organization as servants to God.

 

Nehemiah's faith continues shining when confronted by the King, as he risks his ego and possibly his life in honestly answering the King regarding his sad face. I hope to continue speaking honestly in all circumstances.

 

Honesty has positive and negative consequences. Nehemiah powerfully shows and reminds me that the benefits of serving God with honesty far exceed any perceived false benefits of dishonesty. Nehemiah continues his Godly leadership example of being respectful of the King and silently praying during his dialogue with King Artaxerxes.

I, like Nehemiah, need to remain respectful of superiors and silently pray during conversations, especially with high stakes at risk. Nehemiah reminds me to diligently plan, have precise details ready to the best of my ability when meeting with decision makers. This includes the task's duration and any necessary documents. I will seek to boldly state, when appropriate, my desired tasks, as Nehemiah did when declaring his intention of rebuilding Jerusalem's wall.

Nehemiah encourages me, as a leader, to love God, care about others, grieve for others hurts, pray, confess personal and corporal sins, know God's word and character (as best as humanly possible), boldly and honestly face superiors with respect, continually praying during the dialogue, diligently plan, articulate details of my intentions, seek the appropriate documents, etc and praise God for the favor of his good hand on me.

 

In consideration of economic uncertainty and spiritual depravity, American Christians should follow Nehemiah's example of mourning, weeping, praying, fasting (if you feel so inclined), confessing of personal and national sin, remember God's word, and seek obedience to God. We, like Nehemiah, will diligently develop and implement a Godly vision and plan, serving God despite dangers, risk, inconvenience, and discomfort.

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve with Christ!
 

Rick E. Meyer

See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com

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Leadership Observations in the Life of David

1. 1 Samuel 16:23 ̶ 17:45 (Overall through 1 King 2:11)

1. David played the harp causing the evil spirit to leave Saul, refreshing and making him well (16:23)

• Leaders serve others in response to God's love

• Leaders love others

• Leaders comfort others

• Leaders strive to make others well

• Leaders are concerned about the spiritual wellbeing of others

 

1. David woke-up and left the flock early in the morning with a keeper, allowing David to take supplies to his brothers as his dad Jesse commanded (17:17,20).

• Leaders respond to parents, elders, and superiors in obedience to God.

• Leaders act with urgency

1. David inquiries what will be done for the man who kills Goliath who taunts the armies of the living God (17:26).

• Leaders inquire of opportunity

• Leaders oppose those who oppose God

• Leaders are bold

1. David offered his willingness to fight the Philistine to Saul (17:32).

• Leaders volunteer their talents

• Leaders seek opportunity

1. David explains his experience, preparation and God Confidence (Several years ago, I created a God Confidence Bible Study) (17:34-37).

• Leaders recognize the preparation for future endeavors in current everyday adventures

• Leaders receive confidence from past successes

• Leaders recognize God's existence in the adventurous preparation and successes

• Leaders recognize God's deliverance (17:37)

  
   

1. David took off uncomfortable and out of place armor (17:39)

• Leaders avoid peer pressure to conform in normality of life's battles

1. David took his stick / sling and chose five stones (17:40)

• Leaders use tools and skills of familiarity

• Leaders use tools and skills with which they are trained and confident

• Leaders choose and carry extra stones
  

1. David told the Philistine, I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted. (17:45)

• Leaders prepare physically and mentally within their human domain, yet know, confess, and act in the name of the Lord of hosts.

• Leaders are repulsed by those taunting God

• Leaders respond to and battle for God, rather than on selfishness, ego, and human ability.

1. David repeats these principles through-out his life, with the exception of lust for Bathsheba and arranging for husband's, Uriah, death. (1 Samuel thru 1 Kings 2:11)

• Leaders repeat successful principles

1. David inquires of or seeks the Lord at least eight times (1 Samuel 23:2, 4; 30:8; 2 Samuel 2:1; 5:19; 7:18; 21:1; 24:17)

• Leaders seek the Lord's wisdom and guidance in prayer, rather than relying on self.

 

Summarization of Leadership Principles

David has just begun his leadership after God selected him as a king for and by God following Saul's disobedience in sparing Agag and the Amalekites' spoils. The Spirit of the Lord resided with day from the day of his selection forward, God calls David a man after his own heart. Consequently, David recognizes and honors God's presence, blessings and power. David receives favor with men, women and in battles. When the people exalted David over Saul, David remained humble. Although, his affection for Bathsheba leading to placing her husband Uriah in battle to be killed results in the only stated occasion of God's displeasure with David. Lacking coincidence, David failed to inquire of the Lord in matters of women—specifically Bathsheba. As a leader, David exalts God's anointing of Saul and all lives in Godly favor. David's leadership reveals and reminds the significance of great leadership resulting from God's choosing and receiving his Spirit, along with our obedience.

 

Admirable skills/principles noted before battling Goliath the Philistine

1. God sends Samuel to Jesse's house for His selected King
   1. "God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." (17:7)
   2. "Now the Spirit of the Lord departed mightily upon David from that day forward." (17:13)
2. David serves Saul, including comforting his torments from "an evil spirit from the Lord" that torments him.
   1. Playing the Harp
   2. Attending him
   3. Inviting him to feast with the nations' leaders
3. David preparing for battle
   1. Delivers food to the front lines in obedience to his dad, Jesse
   2. Angered by Goliath taunting the armies of the living God
   3. Inquires of the award for the one whom kills Goliath, thus defeating the Philistine armies
   4. Angered by Goliath taunting the armies of the living God
   5. Reflects upon experience of shepherding and God leading him to victories over lions and bears

Admirable skills/principles noted while fighting Goliath

1. Relies on God
2. Relies on proven methods for David, remaining true to the person God created in him
   1. Selects Stones
   2. Embraces weapon—sling / stick
3. Boldness in approaching the uncircumcised Philistine
4. Confesses his approach in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel
5. Confesses victory because the battle is the Lord's
6. Moved quickly
7. Fired—slung rock—confidently
       

Personal Application

David, like all God's selected leaders, received the appointment without applying for the job, or establishing a marketing plan. As Dr. Lanier Burns states, self-marketing is a pagan ritual as it places one's selfish ambition and reliance ahead of God's desires. David's marketing plan consisted of serving God, through whole heartedly serving his dad and family sheep business. David recognized and relied upon God's strength, power, and protection while battling the lions and bears amongst the sheep herd as well as when fighting the uncircumcised Philistine—Goliath. David also devoutly served Saul. David continued his Godly love for Saul after Saul continually tried to kill David, because David honored God's anointing of Saul. David possessed legendary leadership qualities!

First, David confessed and honored God's provision in everything—all of his successes. Amazing leadership qualities! Secularism says, "Look at me." I need to continually strive to recognize and honor God's presence in my life, including the victories. This includes recognizing that when victories lack, God is preparing us for victory as a coach prepares his athletes. This leadership lesson is one I must remember for myself and communicate with those in my organization. Secondly, David avoided the peer pressure of wearing Saul's armor for battle once he realized the armor conflicted with David's comfort, style, and experience. As a leader, I need to remember to remain true to my strengths in Christ, even when normal appears to offer greater security.

Leadership and Moses: Exodus 3:1-13

Leadership Observations in the Life of Moses

1. Exodus 3:1-14

Moses led the flock toward Horeb—Empty Place—the mountain of God (v. 1)

• Leaders guide their organization towards God

• Leaders serve creation

• Leaders serve in business—flock

• Leaders do not seek leadership

• Ulysses S. Grant stated in his memoirs, that anyone who seeks leadership shouldn't be a leader because self-seeking includes seeking selfish gain. I am paraphrasing as I lost this book in my move to Dallas last year.
  

• Leaders do not always know in advance that they are being called to Leadership

• Leaders recognize and respond to God's prompting.

• Leaders are called and prompted by God despite our past transgressions: Moses committing murder (1:2).

• Leaders respond to God and seek his presence, which may appear as an "Empty Place" by the world's standards.

The Lord, "The angel of the Lord," appeared to Moses (v. 2).

• Leaders are approached by the Lord

• Leaders are enabled to recognize the Lord

Moses observed the burning bush with inquisitiveness, appreciation, and awe (v. 2-3).

• Leaders observe inquisitively

• Leaders are descriptive, yet concise, "the burning bush."

• Leaders avoid premature assumptions

• Leaders respond with appreciating and in awe when applicable

Moses confessed his need to "turn aside now" (v. 3)

• Leaders recognize we must turn, change direction.

• Leaders respond with a humble mind and spirit

Moses confessed his need to "turn aside now" (v. 3)

• Leaders change direction when prudent and/or necessary.

• Leaders respond immediately to the Lord, "now."

Moses observed the bush failing to burn-up (v. 3)

• Leaders observe details

• Leaders inquire of the unknown

Moses responds to God's calling his name (v. 4)

• Leaders remain available, responding to those seeking them

• Leaders are known of God by their first name

• Leaders respond to God

God spoke to Moses when he "turned aside to look" (v. 4)

• God speaks to Leaders when we turn, observe, and inquire.

Moses responds, "Here I am" (v. 4)

• Leaders state their position.

• Leaders respond affirmatively.

• Leaders respond in first person.

• Leaders respond respectfully

• Moses avoided saying, "Uh, yeah—What do you want?"

Moses possessed Godly fear (v. 5-6)

• Leaders fear God.

• Leaders possess wisdom, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom."

• Leaders are humble, especially before the Lord

Moses listens to God without interrupting (v. 7-10)

• Leaders listen to the whole message without interrupting (See Rick Meyer's blog post, "Do you finish God's sentences?")

Moses recognizes and confesses his inadequacy apart from God (v. 11).

• Leaders recognize and confess our ability to achieve on our own.

Moses receives notice of God's accompanying him (v. 12)

• Leaders receive God's presence when responding to God's assignments.

Moses receives instructions of God's sign that He sent him (v. 12).

• Leaders receive signs of God's calling and presence.

Moses is told by God that the sign, "worshiping God at this mountain" will occur after he brings the people out of Egypt (v. 12).

• Leaders worship God.

Moses is told by God that the sign, "worshiping God at this mountain" will occur after he brings the people out of Egypt (v. 12).

• Leaders are sometimes presented with God's signs after completing the task.

Moses tells God that he accepts the assignment of "going to the sons of Israel" (v. 13

• Leaders accept God's assignments.

• Leaders tell God they accept His assignments.

Moses says that he will state to the Israelites that God sent him to them (v. 13)

• Leaders tell their organization of God's assignment and that God sent us.

Moses considers possible questions from the Israelites (v. 13).

• Leaders think and plan ahead of possible questions and objections from those they lead.

Moses asks God of His name, an unknown answer for Moses to a possible question (v. 13)

• Leaders research unknown answers of possible questions, including asking God. Leaders pray in preparation of possible questions and unknown responses.

Summarization of Leadership Principles

Moses receives a major leadership promotion in this passage. He does not seek the position, rather he responds to God who initially speaks to him through inner promptings that direct him to lead his flock toward Horeb. He was inquisitive, amazed, fearful and in awe of the Angel of the Lord who appeared as a non-consumable fire in the bush. Moses recognized this negated man's understanding of the Laws of Physics. Moses affirmatively responds to God, "Here I am," and listens to God's instructions. Prudent leaders listen before responding. He verbally accepts the position and responsibility; leadership mandates their coexistence. He then considers possible objections and questions, followed by seeking the proper response. Moses seeks wisdom, from the creator and source of wisdom—Leaders seek God's wisdom. Moses, while receiving instruction for one of history's greatest assignments, remains humble.

Admirable skills/principles noted before arriving at Horeb—the mountain of God

1. Moses recognizes and responds to God's inner prompting
   1. Moses guides his flock toward God's presence
   2. Leaders serve creation
   3. Leaders serve in business—flock
   4. Leaders do not seek leadership

    

Admirable skills/principles noted after God's appearance

1.    Moses is inquisitive
2.     Moses recognizes God
3.     Moses possesses fear of the Lord

4.     Moses is humble

 

Admirable skills/principles noted after God's introduction

1. Moses listens without interrupting
2. Moses hears and accepts that God will remain with him
3. Moses accepts the position
4. Moses plans ahead
5. Moses asks follow-up, clarifying questions
   
    

Personal Application

It seems, based on this passage alone, that the initial prompting to lead one's flock toward Horeb—Empty Place—defies human logic. In reality, Moses encountered God at the world's Empty Place. Often the initial prompting and direction in leading people or an organization towards God defies human logic. Moses fears the Lord, is humble, inquisitive, and amazed regarding the unknown fire that fails to consume the bush. This openness to the known allows him to recognize, interact and receive instruction from God. Moses avoids ignoring God in the initial prompting, and he avoids reducing God's presence in the fire to human knowledge and understanding about fire.

 

Do I remain God fearing, obedient, and inquisitive of God's presence and action in my life? Do I, like Moses, respond, "Here I am"? Do I, like Moses, listen to all of the instructions without interrupting? Do I, like Moses, remain humble in recognizing and confessing my inadequacies of leadership? Do I, like Moses, prepare for leadership by considering possible objections and questions from those God asks me to lead? Do I, like Moses, prepare for leadership by seeking the Lord's word, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding for the proper answers?

 

I continually improve in each of these areas, while recognizing further development remains necessary the remainder of my life.

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve Leadership with Christ!


Rick E. Meyer
See, Believe, Achieve Inc.
www.rickEmeyer.com

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Is Your Development Noticeable?

I see my nearly four year old nephew every two to three months. I am continually amazed how much he develops between each visit. Wyatt's speech continues rapid improvement in articulation, vocabulary, and wit. His mobility and thinking perpetually increase.

Do you notice this significant cerebral growth in the kids amongst your family and friends?

When I last saw Wyatt two months ago, I commented to my mom if people notice as much personal, professional, and spiritual change and development in us, in adults, every two to three months.
If not, why not?

At what age do we deem appropriate to discontinue massive spiritual, personal and professional growth?

• Should we ever stop growing?
• Should we ever, while on this earth, declare "I have arrived!"?
• Do you agree that prudent adults pursue personal and spiritual growth their entire life?

Will your family, colleagues, and friends notice your spiritual and emotional growth between visits? How are you Growing, today?

See Christ, Believe Christ, Achieve and Grow with Christ!

Rick E. Meyer
Running On Faith Ministry, Inc.
www.rickemeyer.com

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Daily Running thru the Bible : $9.97 USD - monthly Weekly Running thru the Bible : $4.97 USD - monthly