Today’s Reading, Ezekiel 13-15
Focal Scripture: Ezekiel 14:3 “Son of man, these men have set up idols in their hearts and have put their sinful stumbling blocks in front of themselves. Should I actually let them inquire of me?”
Whom you pick to lead has profound consequences on the people that are following that leader. In a country the leader will determine the temperature and the direction of finances, culture, policy, and reputation. In a church they will set the tone for the authority of scripture, missions, and how people will be treated. In a home the leader will determine the climate and how their spouse and children view life, marriage, and children. Leadership comes with great responsibility. Leadership is a privilege. Leadership is part gift and part skill that has to be developed. Leadership sets the course for decades to come.
In today’s reading we see how the leaders of Israel decided to put idols in their hearts. These idols became sinful stumbling blocks. It was so bad that the Lord wanted to know if they should actually inquire of him because of what they were worshipping. The point of this statement was to show that what leaders worship doesn’t just effect them it effects everyone who follow them. If the people in charge have idols in their hearts how much more will the people who follow. Idols replace God. Idols cause pain and bring destruction. Idols lead to false leadership.
If you are in any type of leadership you have to ask yourself if you have any idols in your heart. Because, if you do, your leadership will not be successful long term. A leader who has idols is not focused. How do I know that? When a leader has their eyes set on something other than God and the people they serve it will lead to destruction. When a leader is focused on their own agenda they will lose the heart of the people. When a leader is focused on future success, they will miss living in the present. When a leader is looking to the next position their heart will not be involved.
Idol worship causes suffering. So much suffering that it can destroy any good that happens. For a season things may look good but cracks will surface. It will be evident in the leaders speech. It will be evident in the leaders attitude. It will be evident in the problems they keep running into as they lead. Idols are a stumbling block to what God desires for your life.
Search your heart today for idols. If you find any trace of one, tear it out with prejudice. As Christ follower idol worship is offensive. It also creates a culture of excuses. Be passionate about tearing away idols as you are being successful. Good leaders know what is in their hearts.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Ezekiel 16-17
