Today’s Reading, Zechariah 8-14
Focal Scripture: Zechariah 10:3 “My anger burns against the shepherds, so I will punish the leaders. For the Lord of Armies has tended his flock, the house of Judah; he will make them like his majestic steed in battle.”
I have had the great privilege in my life to serve among some of the best pastors anyone could ask for during my time on staff at churches. I learned so much from these men on how to lead. I saw men who treated others wonderfully and fairly. Men who prayed diligently for their flock. Men who took time to pour into others even myself. Many times I was in awe of how these men lived and lead. It was a sight to behold. Every time God called me away from these men’s leadership it was difficult. Did I agree with every decision they made, absolutely not. Did I believe they sought the Lord, 100% yes. They were great leaders and I love and respect them more than they will ever know.
I have also seen bad leadership first hand. I have seen how it divides and destroys. This leadership will be judged by the Lord. That is where our reading takes us today. God takes leadership serious. Especially those who want to shepherd his people. God has a serious bone to pick with those who do not have a shepherds heart. That is what the Lord is telling Zechariah. These leaders will be held accountable and God will protect his people even though they are being led astray. Not for their glory but for his glory.
It has been wonderful to see great leaders in action but I am also thankful for the bad leaders. Why you may ask? It has given me a new insight into good leaders. It has also shown what type of leader I never want to become. Shown me the type of shepherd to stay away from in my personal life and ministry life.
So what is the application for this in your life today? Embrace good leaders. Leaders who are humble. Leaders who seek Gods face. Leaders who shepherd other people even when nobody is looking. Understanding that being a shepherd is a calling and not everyone is called to that task.
If you are a shepherd are you sticking to the biblical expectations? Are you a person who is worthy to be followed? Not because of your skills but because of your desperate need and reliance upon God. After all that is why the shepherds of Israel were singly judged. They relied on themselves and not the one who called them.
Have a high standard for your shepherds. God does and so should you. None of them are perfect but you should expect them to seek God in everything they do. After all leaders will be held accountable for how they lead.
Tomorrow I plan on reading Malachi 1-4
