As a new leader, it’s not uncommon to feel like Moses leading the Israelites through the wilderness, only to find your followers complaining and questioning your every move.
Stepping into a new leadership role can often feel like following in the footsteps of the prophet Elisha
who inherited his leadership from Elijah after he was taken to heaven in a whirlwind,
Elisha was faced skepticism and doubt from those around him
Why did skepticism and doubt linger among their followers of Moses and Elisha, undermining their authority and their vision?
As for Moses- one of the causes of mistrust from his followers was the negative influences that undermined Moses’ authority and vision, sowing seeds of distrust and rebellion.
As for Elisha- they had grown accustomed to Elijah’s leadership style and he had different personalities and approaches. Some of the other prophets preferred Elijah’s style and found it challenging to adapt to Elisha’s leadership.
Like Moses and Elisha, I also found myself in a similar position. being in a leadership position, I too faced doubt and uncertainty from a situation where I was to lead, which lead to rebellion and ultimately family division
What were the missteps in my leadership? Why did doubt linger, casting shadows of skepticism over my authority and my vision?
Like Elisha, each person will have their own ideas and ambitions that may not align with the leader’s vision or direction,
This is the essence of diversity
You are not me, and I am not you
We all possess distinct personalities, thoughts, and ideas, and there is nothing wrong with that.
The problem was: how it was handled
It’s in these moments of differences, we are faced with the true test of obedience to God
As both followers and leaders maneuver in disagreements, we need to do so with humility, love, and mutual respect outlined in God’s word and do so in a path that honors God,
In the middle of a disagreement, we need to align our hearts and actions with the teachings of Scripture
We needed a believer in the Lord to step up and guide us, yet none of us had the essential leadership qualities. We all lacked the leadership skills needed to guide us through the storm
It is important for everyone to enhance their leadership abilities so that, when confronted with challenges, we can address them effectively in a way that is consistent with God’s intentions.
Will we listen to the call and obey God by allowing Him to mentor us and lead us in strengthening our skills and knowledge, so that we may become individuals who rise to the occasion and guide others in the right direction during challenging times?
Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose
This verse reassures believers that despite the challenges and difficulties we may face, God is ultimately in control and can bring about good from every situation for those who trust in Him
He can bring about good from every situation, even those that seem difficult or painful.
View your challenges as blessings, opportunities for us all to mature and draw nearer to God
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything
Let us be that individual who rises to the occasion and guide others in the right direction during challenging times
Join me on my journey paved by God’s guidance – I invite you to join me and find inspiration in the remarkable ways God moves in our lives (echosofmyfootsteps.com)
