Preparing Future Leaders

Steven’s Scribbles
“Preparing Future Leaders”
    
    In the Lord’s church, it is paramount that we prepare early and often our future leaders. In many organizations, it is only the individuals that possess “natural” leadership skills that excel to the top. While leadership is not a trait that is “natural” to some people, it is a skill that is necessary and must be cultivated in all individuals, not just those who show a propensity towards leadership. All christians are commanded to teach the Gospel (Matt. 28:18-20; 1 Peter 2:9) and therefore must have at least basic leadership skills in order to seek and save the lost. When looking throughout Scripture, there is absolutely an apprentice and master relationship with leaders and those who will be future leaders: Elijah and Elisha, Moses and Joshua, Paul and Timothy, etc. Furthermore, when there is a lack of apprenticeship, there are behavioral and doctrinal problems that arise (see Eli and his sons Hophni and Phinehas 1 Sam. 2:12-25). When looking at the example of Moses and Joshua, it is evident that building leaders is a long process, possibly taking decades. Joshua was present with Moses when traveling up Mt. Sinai when Moses received the Lord’s Law (Ex. 24:12-14). Joshua stood guard the tent when Moses went into the tent of meeting to communion with God (Ex. 33:7-11). Joshua had a strong faith in God, because he was just one of two men who gave a favorable report for Israel to take back the promised land (Num. 13 & 14). He put his faith in God, rather than allow the fear of those in Canaan to dissuade him (Num. 14:8-9). Even through all of this, when Moses died and Joshua took his mantle, he had to be reminded to be strong and courageous (Josh. 1:6-9). The same charge that Moses had given him prior (Deut. 31:6-8). Today, we need to be sure we invest in our future leaders. We guide them and show them early and often to have confidence in the Lord. We must seek future leaders to help further the cause of Christ. I love you all!


In His service,
Steven Hugley