Many of us have or will face major challenges, obstacles, and opportunities in ministry. It is during these times we will feel a sense of inadequacy and uncertainty about what to do and how we will get it done. The eyes of those we have been called to lead are on us during those times.
Judges 7:15–18 takes us to a familiar Old Testament character, Gideon. It provides scriptural truths and principles on how to lead when we are overwhelmed.
Lead with Words of Exhortation
“And it was so, when Gideon heard the telling of the dream, and the interpretation thereof, that he worshipped, and returned into the host of Israel, and said, Arise; for the LORD hath delivered into your hand the host of Midian” (Judges 7:15).
Those we lead need to be exhorted that God is in control and He has already given us the victory we need. Every sermon should be a word of exhortation for our people!
Lead through the Act of Equipping
“And he divided the three hundred men into three companies, and he put a trumpet in every man’s hand, with empty pitchers, and lamps within the pitchers” (Judges 7:16).
Leadership should always be looking for ways to equip our people with the tools and resources they will need for victory. If we are seeking to build strong praying or soulwinning churches, how are we equipping our people?
Lead through Personal Example
“And he said unto them, Look on me, and do likewise: and, behold, when I come to the outside of the camp, it shall be that, as I do, so shall ye do” (Judges 7:17).
People do what people see. Spiritual leaders are always setting the right example, and they will seek to be examples in everything! Good followers will eventually ask the question, “What would my pastor do?”
Lead with Personal Exertion
“When I blow with a trumpet, I and all that are with me, then blow ye the trumpets also on every side of all the camp, and say, The sword of the LORD, and of Gideon” (Judges 7:18).
Great challenges and opportunities are avenues for us to exert effort. As the people witness how much effort we give, they will do the same. Hard working pastors produce hard working members.
God gave Gideon the victory in a marvelous and wonderful way. But along the way, this backward and intimidated young leader provides us with key biblical principles of leadership to help each of us when we encounter challenges.