PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Deuteronomy 17-18
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“How can we know when a message has not been spoken by the Lord?” (Deuteronomy 18:21)
These chapters describe the leadership Moses puts in place.
Judges, priest levites, kings prophets – God will lead through them.
But how will they know if what the say or do is right or good?
There are several tests: character (17:16-17), the law (17:18-20).
There is also the test of the prophet: does what they say come true.
Consider the outcome of what they say and do, not just their position.
We cannot presume that everything a leader says or does is right.
These tests lead me to put my confidence in Jesus as my leader.
He demonstrated God-like character, as revealed in the scriptures.
And what he said about sin, grace and love still come true today.
Jesus did not have position, but he had all traits of a good leader.
You don’t have to take my word for it, put my words to the test.
Consider the life and teaching of Jesus (not the church).
Pay attention to what he say and does; in time you will see its truth too.
PRAYER
Lord, so many times your message has come true in my life. This is how I know you speak for God.
Reading the instructions for the King – the king must have integrity – not only be an officer of the law and faithfully practice it himself – there is a high standard here – even when it comes to marriage. This was given to Israel before they ever had a King! Being a leader does require integrity – there must not be hypocrisy! This is so true for leadership in the Church as well. Help all who lead Lord to strive to be humble servants that respect your ways! Help me Lord too to be subservient to your will – HS guide me so that I might lead well! WE also read Moses saying that God will provide prophets/leaders! Help those who lead – have integrity to lead well- walking closely/listening to the HS. As a follower help me to faithfully discern!
Rules for living, whether a political or religious leader or a believer. Do this and live.
I need to put first things first. God must be present in all I do and say. As He has blessed me I need to be a blessing to others in all I do and say in Jesus name – by my words and deeds. I need to ask the question, where do I see God in all of this. I am His and He in mine and in all I do and say I need to be living for Jesus doing His will. All for Jesus.
1 All that I am I owe to Thee;
Thy wisdom, Lord, has fashioned me.
I give my Maker thankful praise,
whose wondrous works my soul amaze.
2 Ere into being I was brought,
Thine eye did see, and in Thy thought
my life in all its perfect plan
was ordered ere my days began.
3 Thy thoughts, O God, how manifold,
more precious unto me than gold!
I muse on their infinity,
awaking I am still with Thee.
4 The wicked Thou wilt surely slay;
from me let sinners turn away.
They speak against the Name divine;
I count God’s enemies as mine.
5 Search me, O God, my heart discern;
try me, my inmost thought to learn;
and lead me, if in sin I stray,
to choose the everlasting way.