Leadership is a vital and anemic trait in our society that has been corrupted by the evil that resides within the human heart. Evil that demands decisions and choices based on self; one’s personal agenda, perspective, ideology, etc. It is the condition of the human heart. It is impossible to escape the impact of insecure leaders, diseased systems, and poor leadership. We face this issue in every area of our lives (politics, religion, community, etc.). Trust me I have overcome some horrendous leadership abuse and learned the value of a changed heart and a thriving culture.
A changed heart has received the cure, the anecdote for the sin that dwells within; by offering the Lord a humble spirit and a contrite heart (Psalm 51:17). Through the presence of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit a heart of stone is replaced with a heart of flesh and compassion, empathy, and love are born.
As leaders of our home we have a unique ability to begin the process of leading well. Spiritually guiding our family beyond the condition of the heart (self/sin) and into the cure and change that leads to life abundant and everlasting. Life that moves beyond corrupt leadership, uncertain circumstances, difficult storms, and deep valleys. The Shema (Deuteronomy 6) gives us the roadmap as spiritual leaders within our homes. The deeper we press into and depend on God’s word to strengthen and exercise our heart, the greater the overflow into our families. The moments along the way of everyday living that we intentionally talk about our faith and share where our hope comes from not only renews our mind but lays a foundation for our family. The moments that we restrain from venting about the poor leadership we are exposed to and set the example, by loving the Lord our God with all of our being and then loving others, we have led well.
This is a difficult season for so many of us. As a nation we have walked many devastating and challenging chapters in history; however, this one in unique in it’s own way. Little eyes and ears are watching and listening. Here is an opportunity to anchor that foundation, the foundation of faith, that goes beyond the things of this world, and when we do, we will lead well! So here’s to raising them up, spiritual champions, that will learn what it means to anchor their faith, humble their spirit, and lead through the lens of love!