God's Three Positions of Leadership With Us

 

This is Chuck Rapp with a word of encouragement for Village Church Planters.  Several months ago, I shared a series of messages on Three Positions of Leadership.  These are different dimensions, or different ways, in which God uses us as leaders. 

Sometimes we are called to the “in front” leader.  We set vision and direction for those who follow us.  We first point the way, and then we lead the way. 

Secondly, we are to serve as mentors, or alongside, leaders.  We walk through life with others, authentically sharing our lives with them.  We teach others based out of our experiences, both the good and the challenging or unpleasant. 

Lastly, sometimes we are the type of leader who follows behind a fallen one to lift him or her up and to restore them. 

All three of these positions of leadership are important and valid in our Kingdom service. 

Recently, the Lord showed me that He asserts each of these positions of leadership in His relationship with us as well.

In Front – Psalm 37:23 promises us that “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way.”  Isaiah 30:21 encourages us that “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."”  These assurances from God’s Word are for those who are abiding in Christ as we recently discussed.  As Leader of our lives, our God shows His ways for us.

Alongside – The Holy Spirit of God dwells within us as His children.  Jesus encouraged the apostles and us in John 14:26 that the “Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”  In the Greek New Testament, the word paraklétos means “comforter”, “helper”, or “called to one’s side”. 

Behind – The Old Testament prophet Hosea spoke about this in 6:1. “Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds.”  Psalm 23 reminds us that “He restores my soul”.  1 Peter 5:10 assures us that “the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”

Just as we serve others in 3 positions of leadership, God works in similar ways in our lives as well. 

This has been a word of encouragement for Village Church Planters.