OCTOBER 12 – SERVING TEACHES

 And the many began to ask him (John), “So what, then, should we do?” He answered, “If you have two coats, give one to someone who has none. If you have food, do the same.” (Luke 3:10-11)

                   Do you give your people practical opportunities to participate in God’s kingdom work? At times, behaving in a way that models your values; especially when providing service unselfishly to others, can open a person’s heart to the love of Christ. As they experience God’s presence in the work and the healing power of hope, people have an opportunity to see a different possibility for their own lives.

                   John encouraged his listeners to understand that God’s judgment is certain, and that He will not accept less than a life lived well; for His purposes. To that challenge, the people asked the question most would consider, “How then do I please God?” Humble repentance in faith, such as these people showed as they sought to be baptized is desired by God. But, Scripture repeatedly explains that selfless love and mercy is the answer to what really pleases God.

                   Words are powerful, but actions are powerful too. Give your people opportunities to learn through action. Let them participate with you in God’s work in your community. Serving others will teach them about God’s love.

OCTOBER 11 – TEACH THE OLD WAYS

 Christ has one Body and one Spirit, just as each of you was called to the very same hope and faith. One Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all. He is over everything, through everything, and in everything. (Ephesians 4:4-6)

                   Do you value each of the ways that the Lord has given you to relate to Him? As your people grow and come to be receptive to the Lord, do you introduce them to these opportunities? The old ways; loving relationship with God, prayer, listening for His voice, reading Scripture as you pray, fasting, and worshipping, are all valuable gifts from God. They will enrich your life and the lives of all your people who practice them.

                   Paul explains there is one way – God. Even as you recognize that people are unique, they are the same in at least two ways. First, each is created by God, and is accountable to Him. God is God over every person and activity. Second, He is “in everything.” This means He has made Himself available to each person.

    Sometimes you want to be relevant, or current, and you may look for new methods. God may lead you to them. But, don’t abandon the old ways He has given you. These ancient paths to relationship with God hold great value for you and your people.

OCTOBER 10 – TEACH THE TRUTH

 But the time is here. Real followers will worship the Father, God in Spirit and in Truth. That is the people the Father wants. (John 4:23)

                  Are you willing to always tell the truth? This is one of the hardest things to do, but – especially as you lead others – you can’t pursue God’s calling without being truthful. That includes not only being careful with what and how you teach, but also that you be truthful with your people as they move forward. As you are always teaching these you lead, their actions may tell you they are lying when they tell you they have adopted the vision and values as their own. Teaching truth means that you must require their words and actions to be consistent. You must require them to be honest with themselves, with the Lord, and with you.

                  Jesus here mentions truth is a characteristic of genuine worship; the kind that God is looking for. “God is not a man that He should lie (Numbers 23:19).” Lying, deceit, false balances, flattery are all characteristics and actions that God says He despises. As you pray, asking that the Holy Spirit show you where you must change, ask that He reveal places where you are being dishonest with yourself and with others. Listen to the Spirit prayerfully as you observe and speak with your people, asking that He show you where you and how you should speak the truth.           Truth is hard. Your people need you to speak and model the truth as you lead them.

OCTOBER 9 – TEACHING IS VITAL

 Go and replicate yourselves in the other nations, and baptize them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teach them how to follow in all that I taught you. And listen, I am with you every day; all the time, until the completion of this age. (Matthew 28:19-20)

                   Does your plan for your people include ongoing teaching? Is teaching imbedded in your processes? Is it a responsibility of each leader to be teaching and growing others whom they lead? Repetition is important. Recognize that new people enter the groups you lead and relate to, and that someone must be charged with teaching them as well.

                  Jesus left His followers here with three clear, direct mandates; replicate, baptize, and teach. Replication is the product of transformation. Baptism is the clear communication of the changed life. This includes both the intentional act of the transformed person to say, “I have been changed, “and the public witness he or she gives to that transformation. Teaching brings maturity, forming the new life that grows each day when it is nurtured. God has chosen to do the work of teaching and nurturing partly through His people just as people share in helping others come to faith in Christ. He intends for you to include your people in this work of teaching and nurturing too.

                   Embrace the opportunity that Christ has given you to teach and provide for ongoing instruction of His people. It is vital to His work and yours.

OCTOBER 8 – BOLD PERSEVERENCE

 But Christ was faithful as the Son over the House of God, His Father. We are His house if we persevere boldly to bring glory to Him with our firm hope always to the end. (Hebrews 3:6)

                  Are there times you don’t feel like celebrating God’s goodness? Have you experienced the place where the work you have done and the processes you have initiated to follow Him seem to be yielding nothing? Were you tempted to use your mind, and the proven ways of the world to turn it around? You should never choose the world’s way.

                  The writer observes, “Jesus was faithful.” He did what God wanted Him to do – period. Then he says, “If you are His house (where He lives)” – in other words – “If Jesus really is your Lord and lives in you,” then you will do the same thing. You will persevere boldly through difficult times if Jesus lives in you. He includes strong adverbs for emphasis. He says to persevere always, every day to the end. Be bold in speaking truth even to those who don’t want to hear. Do the work because you have hope (believe) in God’s power to accomplish His will and purposes in the world. Living this way means you never stop celebrating God; never give up on Him and just do what other people would do.

                  Persevere boldly, with great hope in the Lord God alone, and do it firmly to the end when He completes His work in you.

OCTOBER 7 – ROUTINES ARE CRITICAL

 And everything; whatever you do and every word, action, and all your work – do it in the name of the Lord, Jesus. And, in all of it, give thanks to Father God through Jesus who gives us this life. (Colossians 3:17)

                  What are the daily routines of your community? Have you thought about the customary, default activity and reasoning process of your people? Routines are important tools in the formation of a culture. The decisions your people make should be tested against the vision and values you have communicated and defined. Processes to care for people must be part of your routines if your community is to be connected and prospering. Each of your routines should be measured against God’s vision and values for your people.

                  Paul stresses that everything matters to Jesus. He says a lot in this short statement. Everything that you do that you call work and everything you say, are done in Jesus’ name as you live your life in the Spirit. As you move toward that desired reality, you begin to form personal habits of attentiveness to Christ. These are your routines. They are vital to your Spiritual growth. Similarly, as you recognize the patterns, you can establish processes – ways of being and ways of doing things – for your people to follow. These “ways of being and doing” will be vital to the growth of the people in your community.    

   Routines aren’t routine. They are the mark of excellence. They become the way for your people.

OCTOBER 6 – CELEBRATE – GROW HOPE

 Let this new song be sung; everywhere – to the ends of His earth. Go to the sea, take it to the islands and all their people. Even out in the far wilderness, and from the tops of the mountains they will sing, shouting praises. They will all give glory to the Lord God singing His praises in all the islands. (Isaiah 42:10-12)

                   Are your words full of hope? Or, do you sometimes forget from where your hope comes? Do you speak in ways that convey your fears to your people? Each celebration is an opportunity to show and inspire a hope that sustains confidence in the future. To say, “God loves,” is what enables you to love (1 John 4:19); not just to love Him, but also to love His people. In like manner, celebrating God’s work enables hope for those who are gripped by fear.

                   Isaiah delivers God’s promise that the songs that praise His work on earth will connect to the future. This means, if you sing His songs everywhere, always, to the ends of His earth, then others will inhabit this new life! In still other words, if you are faithful in praising the Lord, God, His earth will be filled with hope-giving celebration and praise.

                   So, speak optimistically, as God leads you. Be careful that your words are filled with His hope rather than with fear.

OCTOBER 5–CELEBRATE–GROW PARTICIPATION

The Holy Spirit of the Father, the Lord God, is covering me; my life. The purpose; the reason He placed that Spirit in my life is to tell the great news to the poor. The captives are now free, those who have been stumbling around blind can now see, and I bring real liberty to the oppressed and enslaved. (Luke 4:18-19)

                  Do some of your people need re-charging? You don’t celebrate just to introduce and invite new people to respond and join the effort. Celebration also promotes and grows participation for those already engaged. Remember that what you talk about as the leader is what your people will do. Your words will have a desire-shaping focus. If you stop talking about vision and values, and you stop telling and celebrating the stories of what God is doing, they will notice. Your actions and words, or your inaction and silence are watched very carefully.

                  Jesus said the Spirit was placed upon Him; “covering His life (completely),” so that He would be constantly telling and celebrating the good news. Every day brought an opportunity to shape focus on God, encourage participation, and grow people together in community. His whole business, and yours, is to replicate workers who will in turn bring more transformation.

                  Let your life be covered with the Spirit. Keep on telling the good news. See the transformation God promises as you allow Him to work through you every day.

OCTOBER 4 – CELEBRATE – GROW COMMUNITY

 When God’s people talk with each other about all He has done, the Lord, God listens. Even He makes note of how they have worked and what has been done through their work because they honor Him and put all their hope in Him. (Malachi 3:16)

                  Do your people have time and opportunity to simply be “us” together? Have you established, in your times of celebration, opportunities to focus on and celebrate the “we?” When you make room for time to appreciate what has happened because God brought you and your people together, it encourages unity. This time of celebration provides opportunity to grow in understanding the common vision and to care for and encourage each other.

                  Malachi urges, “Even He notices” when there is such community. Talking with each other about what God is doing, and seeing the work as His, is the beginning of faith. People become open and receptive to God’s provision and care. Think of all the Israelite feasts. Each one had a purpose, and common to all was that each was a reminder of God’s work in them as a people. Altars and pillars of stone dot the Israeli countryside from times that leaders memorialized God’s great works.

                  Leave your peoples’ memorials as you celebrate what God has done for “us,” the work He has done through “us.” Build a united community where the pronoun is “we.”

OCTOBER 3 – CELEBRATE – GROW OWNERSHIP

 Come, listen – if you want to know what God has done, so I can tell you what He has done for me! (Psalm 66:16)

                   Have you given your people opportunity to listen to God’s vision for you and for them, and to the values He has given you to teach? That work is very important, but it is also important for them to hear the stories of how the vision and values look when they are lived. As people hear how God has used others in their community for His purposes, they will begin to see themselves in those stories. They will understand how to show integrity in living the values and pursuing the community’s shared vision, rather than just talking about them as ideals.

                   Again, the writer focuses on what God has done. It is important that this topic dominate your words, too. When your people listen to – and celebrate - the stories, and they hear, “this is how you have lived,” and “this is how you have participated in pursuing God’s purpose,” they will begin to take ownership. The vision becomes “our vision,” rather than simply the words you have spoken. As the importance of the values become evident, they will be adopted too.

                   Speak in ways that will help your people to hear what God is doing and to embrace that work as their own.

 

OCTOBER 2 – CELEBRATE - GROW AWARENESS

 Sing, show delight, and great joy all who belong to the Lord, God. It is right for you to praise God for what He does. Praise Him using every instrument. Sing with your voice and heart your gratitude for all the new work He does. Give it your best! (Psalm 33:1-3)

                   As you notice the work God is doing in and around you, there is opportunity to help your people share in the celebration you lead to recognize God’s prosperity. Think of the many ways you can provide evidence of Jesus’ work, and call attention to Him as well as the culture He is calling you all to inhabit. You will be teaching them the patterns of worship each time you speak, “We celebrate!”

                   Here, the Psalmist says, “It is right for you to praise God for what He does.” He encourages a full-throated celebration – loud with lots of instruments and joyful gratitude. The encouragement to give it your best, and to be grateful for everything - all of what the Lord does - eliminates any doubt about the importance of this celebration. Clearly, your voice is critical to God’s plan for you and your people.

                   Celebrate loudly, publicly, and give it your best. Bring awareness to God’s purposes and His work in and through your people!

OCTOBER 1 – COMMUNITIES CELEBRATE

 The Lord, God took this man Adam, and He placed him at rest in the place that would be his workplace, Eden’s garden, so that he could work it and make it be what God had planned for it to become. (Genesis 2:15)

   Do you see your work each day as worship? Do you celebrate what the Lord, God is doing through you and your people? If you do this; working as God’s word tells you is His way for you to live, you’ll find that even the smallest details of your work will have real and lasting meaning.

   Adam was placed in the garden with a specific purpose. He and his work were an essential part of God’s plan for the world He had created, and for mankind. Notice too, the work was to be such that he could rest in it. God’s plan was to do the work that would accomplish His plan in and through Adam. Work was not intended to be hard or oppressive. It was because of sin that work is harsh (Genesis 3:17-19). Because of Jesus, work can again be restful and joyful. If you work with Him; do only what He plans for you, each day can be a day of celebration and worship as He uses you for His purposes.

   Embrace the rest Jesus offers. Pursue only His plan as your life and work has always been intended. Lead your community in celebration as you see God’s work being done.

SEPTEMBER 30 – LIVING IN THE STORY

 Nothing else matters. The only thing important is that the story is told. When that happens, I’m elated because I know my story. With your prayers and by God giving me the power of His Spirit, my ending is assured. I just hope and pray that I’ll always be courageous enough to live in Him; exalting Him. You see, for me, my story must be the story of Jesus Christ and even if I die that will lead to a great ending. (Philippians 1:18-21)

                  What does it mean to live in your story? Actors sometimes “step out of character” for a moment. This is a time when they will stop acting their role. For that period, they are no longer a part of the work to present the story. Is there a parallel for you? Do you ever “step out of your role” as leader? Do you ever fail to act consistently with your character? Are you ever too tired, or too distracted, or too worried about yourself to do what you must do to be true to your calling as the leader?

                   Paul’s one, fervent hope as he awaited trial, punishment, and even possible death, was that he would be true to the call of Jesus Christ upon his life. He wanted to be strong, and to live his life faithfully all the way to the end.

                   When you understand the story you have been given to live, it becomes the way you see the world. You will live a story each day. Be sure that Jesus is the center of that story as you face whatever your story provides.

SEPTEMBER 29 – IT COULD HAPPEN TO ME

 The disciples asked Jesus, “Why tell stories?” Jesus answered, “God has given you understanding of His truth, but these people have not yet received it. You know the one who has will be able to take in more, but the one who has not, will even lose what he has. I tell them these stories, so that they may begin to understand. Until now, they have seen and heard God’s word, but can’t understand it.” (Matthew 13:10-13)

                  Jesus told powerful stories. He introduced them in ways which held the attention of his listeners by telling stories about the things of everyday life; things in their lives. He painted a vivid picture of what the kingdom of God looked like, but he used stories instead of paints. These stories helped His listeners see through eyes that could now imagine that kingdom to be possible, and they became more open to hearing further truth from God.

                  You have these interesting, powerful stories too! Each day, as you look around where you are, some of your people will be living the reality of the vision God has given you for your community. As you observe these people living the values, doing the work of making the vision become reality, take advantage of this great opportunity. Share their story with others of your people as examples of the future you are pursuing together. Paint the picture for them.

                  Why will you tell stories? So that your people will understand and will be drawn to fulfill God’s plan for their lives. Tell them stories.

SEPTEMBER 28 – THERE IS POWER IN STORY

 But Jesus would not let him (the man He had healed) sail with them. Instead Jesus said, “Go back to your people and tell the story of the great things God has done for you, and how He showed mercy to you.” (Mark 5:19)

                  Your people know you well. They may not know about your past and your struggles, but they know you well enough to see a change in your life. Are you willing to be transparent with them – honest enough – so they may be encouraged by the story of the Lord’s work in your life? Telling your story is powerful, but it costs you something. That cost is part of your investment in your people; giving your life and your foregoing your privacy, so they may know God.

                   You can understand this man’s desire to stay with Jesus. He had been tormented by demons, and now they were gone. Think of the profound gratitude you feel when someone relieves you of a significant problem. This man truly loved Jesus, and he wanted to show that love. But, consistently, Jesus told people to show their love for Him by giving their lives away to other people. For this man it was no different.

                  Understand that this is the way for you too. Your work will often be to tell your story of God’s powerful work in you, even when it is hard to tell that story. Do that work, and so model transparency for your people.

SEPTEMBER 27 – PRAYER CHANGES PEOPLE

 The man answered them saying, “You know this is an amazing thing. That you Pharisees don’t know about him, yet He healed me! Everyone knows God only answers the prayers of those who do His will. He doesn’t do the bidding of unrepentant sinners.” (John 9:30-31)

                  Do you believe that prayer is an effective action? Do you see evidence that the Lord, God hears and responds to your prayers; changing you and the lives of others for whom you pray? The Bible tells the stories of many who have seen God’s dramatic answers to prayer. Jesus, and others, gave assurance that God answers the prayers of His people. Yet many people will say, “All we can do is pray,” as if prayer is an ineffective, last ditch response to a difficult challenge.

                   The formerly blind man in this story puts this question to the Pharisees in a very direct manner. He said, in effect, “For me – seeing is believing.” In other words - he explained, “It is obvious to me that God acted to change my life in response to the prayer Jesus prayed in faith. Doesn’t that tell you what you need to know about Him?”

                   As the writer of James said, “The prayer of a person in right relationship with God is powerful and effective (James 5:16).” Live seriously, knowing that other people are changed by your relationship with God and your prayers for them.

SEPTEMBER 26 – RECOGNIZE THE LEAD

 Understand – what we talk about is Jesus as the Lord, God. We’re serving you for Him; His plan. You see, God who said for light to come out of darkness, has made Jesus, the face of the Glory of God, to shine out of our hearts. So, we understand that we containers of clay have this treasure within us, showing us this great power is from God, not us. (2Corinthians 4:5-7)

                  With all the communicating; talking, showing, encouraging, explaining, that you must do, are you careful to remember that it’s not about you? In fact, one of the quickest, most certain ways to recognize you are heading for a dangerous place, is when you notice your language is dominated by the words, “I” and “me/my.” God’s leaders will speak to their people about the “we” which recognizes that God is in the lead, and that their people are important partners in the work rather than subordinates who are to serve selfish desires.

                  How interesting it is that Paul brought to the reader’s mind the imagery of God creating light in the beginning (Genesis 1:3). Also, he made the same reference to clay pots that he used in a letter to Timothy, making it clear that the flesh that carries God’s light; Jesus, is not honorable and doesn’t deserve any praise. Rather, it is the stuff that must be shed if a person is to be used by God.

                  Recognize as Paul did, that your life, your work, and even your identity is no longer about you. Let your life show only Jesus.

SEPTEMBER 25 – CAST THE PLAY

 If the house is big enough, there will be containers that are made of gold and silver, but some will be made of wood and clay, and some to work that brings great good, and some shame. If a person will stay away from such dishonor, he or she can be used for good purpose, set aside for profitable work for the Lord; remembering He prepared the work.      (2 Timothy 2:20-21)

                  Have you ever considered your work to be like that of a casting director; one who finds the appropriate role for each “actor” in your community? As you lead your people, God will help you to see each individual with His discernment. But, to do this, you must insure that each person has a relationship with you or one of your leaders who can relate to God in that discernment. Are your people being led by someone with a gold standard? If not, are you moving toward that reality each day?

                  Paul explains to Timothy the importance of carefully considering the nature and character of each person around him. He encourages Timothy to go for the gold, and further explains that he must understand that each person must strive for a right relationship with God if he or she will be used for God’s purposes in His ongoing story.

                  Prayerfully consider your people’s actions. Encourage each one to pursue the things of God so they too may be part of God’s “play.” Help those who struggle with the things that lead to shame and dishonor to overcome those things.

SEPTEMBER 24 – KNOW YOUR ROLE

 You – as my maker - you know the extent of me. You made me and wrapped me in my mother’s womb. You are my God, because you alone made me uniquely. That work was wonderful – I know it still is! You know me to my core, as you alone know the secrets of who I am. And as you put me together, you knew and made me for the life you would give me to live. (Psalm 139:13-16)

                  King David loved the Lord, God. He likely had a lot of time to consider God’s plan for his life after he was told he would be king. As he watched over his sheep, he must have wondered about himself, his own character, and his very nature; wondering what would have made God choose him to be king. In that meditation, he may have come to the realization he expressed here. God created David uniquely, and He did so with the expectation that he would fulfill an important role in the history of the world.

                  Do you realize that you were created by God just as uniquely and specifically as David? Have you considered your own nature, your character, and your values, as you think of the roles God has called you to fill? Knowing yourself is important if you are to lead your people well. Not only must you articulate a vision, but you must also share the values that will be important elements of the culture of your community as you work toward that vision.

                  These values are your values. Your role is to live and teach God’s truth with those values that form your character. Know and live your role authentically.

SEPTEMBER 23 – LEARN THE STORY

 To your revealing – showing your will and desire – we have looked and waited on Lord, God. As we have struggle and suffer we wait on you. All night long my soul wants you; my spirit seeks you. Because your arrival will bring the world to right-living. (Isaiah 26:8-9)

                  Augustine said, “You (God) have made us for yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.” Do you now recognize this in your life; that your proper role in life is to be that part of God’s story which He made you to fulfill? Do you live in that reality, explaining life to your people in those terms, and encouraging them to find their place in God’s plan – their story?

                   Isaiah has relayed God’s promise to His people. He explained that God’s day of judgment is coming. A day when he reveals Himself to all mankind as God, making everything right and justice becomes reality on the earth. Here, he explains the emptiness that each man and woman feel when they are separated from God. Isaiah speaks of a knowing sense in each person that longs for God, and that hasn’t changed. What has changed is that Jesus’ atonement made it possible for men and women to relate to God again. God will show you your part of His story. He will make clear to you the role you are to play in that story.

                   Learn your story. Live in and teach from that place and encourage your people to join you in it.

SEPTEMBER 22 – BEING REALLY HUMAN

 And God said, “Let us make mankind, our very image and likeness, to manage all this – fish, birds, and other. And, so God did it. The Lord, God made male and female; the very image of God. He blessed them, so they would multiply, and fill the earth to accomplish the work He gave them to do. (Genesis 1:26-28)

                  Do your people understand how special they are? Do they know what it means to be fully human and the amazing life they were created to enjoy? One of the first tasks for any leader who will help their people to grow, is to help those people to see and become all God intended people to be. Without taking that step, how will they ever understand the rest of the Lord God’s truth?

                  Through this explanation of creation, God provides you with the identity and the role for you and each of your people. People are created to be a reflection; a copy; an expression of the Lord God in His world. That is each person’ s identity. Sin damaged that perfect creation. To accomplish the work of God, the identity and relationship must be restored. Each person must be recreated by the work of God’s love before that person is able to receive and accomplish the purposes of God for his or her life.

                  Help your people find the restoration of relationship with their God that will enable them to be His image in the world today. Help them learn to be authentically human.

SEPTEMBER 21-FOLLOW EVEN WHEN IT’S HARD

 Hear me when I (Jesus) tell you (Peter) this. When you were younger, before you met and began following Me, you made the plans, you prepared, and then you did life your way. As you grow to completeness in Me, you will simply stretch out your hands and reach for Me, and you will willingly go wherever I lead – even though you don’t want to go where I’ll take you. (John 21:18)

                  Peter experienced a very challenging three years with Jesus. It was marked by soaring highs and dramatic lows, as he always seemed to be one of the more serious, passionate disciples. This passage immediately follows an exchange between Jesus and Peter where Jesus allowed him to both be restored in close personal relationship, and to gain new understanding for his way forward.

                  Do you struggle against this expectation of Jesus? Do you think of great plans; big projects you can do to make up for the times you may have failed Jesus? You must understand, these desires, without the kind of complete submission Jesus describes to Peter, will lead you down the broad way of destruction. Hear Jesus tell you today, “Your work is to feed My sheep; love my people. Just stretch out your hands and let me show you the way, even if that way doesn’t make sense to you.”

                  Learn the truth of following Jesus. Understand and accept that it means you give up control. Trust the way Jesus shows you, even when you don’t understand.

SEPTEMBER 20-FOLLOW-BEING LED IS DYING

 After Jesus received the vinegar, He said, “It has been completed;” then bowed His head and released His spirit. (John 19:30)

                   How often do you say, or allow others to say about you, (or at least feel – inside) that, “you deserve ___” (some benefit or honor or recognition)? The ultimate work of Jesus was to die. Do you understand that He was saying that your work is to be the same?

                   Earlier in the book of John, Jesus is speaking with His disciples (John 12:23-27). He explained that neither He nor they could be faithful to God the Father, and His purpose for them, unless they were willing to give up any claim they have upon even their own lives. People whose expectation for their life is that they will live it as if they are already dead to what they want or need, do not feel they deserve anything beyond that death. The language was much more direct in the book of Mark (8:34). There, Jesus said explicitly that His follower must, “deny himself and take up their cross.” Your desires to get what you have earned by your good works or your faithfulness must die if you wish to follow Jesus faithfully.

                   Refuse to feel entitled and die to your selfish desires so that Jesus can use you to bring others to new life in Him.

SEPTEMBER 19-FOLLOW-DON’T SEEK CONTROL

 If I could speak eloquently in every tongue, whether of men or angels, if I don’t have love it is just noise; no meaning. If I could preach and could know and teach everything, even having all the faith to move mountains – bot not love – I am nothing. Even if I give away everything I own for the poor or give my life as a martyr, if I don’t have love, it won’t help me at all. (1Corinthians 13:1-3)

                  Chances are good that you are quite capable. Decisions may come easily; almost as second nature, and people whom you lead may look to you every time there is a difficult challenge. Having such capabilities often leads men and women to believe that they have responsibility for outcomes rather than obedience. This belief can grow stronger, even to a place where leaders determine the desired outcome for others. Then they may use coercion or deception, allowing the ends to justify the means.

                  God didn’t give you gifts of capability so that you can control the decisions others will make. He speaks through Paul’s words to make it clear that the object of His gifts to you is the benefit of another person. His desire is that you will use those gifts to show the love that you and He share for them as His people – and yours – by using them in the way His Spirit leads you. Power is God’s to exercise. Your tool is love, as He expresses that love in power through your life and all your capabilities.

                  Your gifts are wonderful creations of God. Let Him use them creatively to love others each day.

SEPTEMBER 18-FOLLOW-NEVER PLAY POLITICS

 Just as a file of iron is used to make the iron axe sharp, one person is an instrument used to sharpen the face of another. (Proverbs 27:17)

                  King Solomon also gives insight into the relationships of a healthy community of faith. He explains that people are to sharpen and improve the effectiveness of each other as they rub against and challenge each other in relationships each day. This is in sharp contrast with the way of the world. There, every interaction is framed as a self-serving, competitive battle in the arena where there must be winners and losers. In God’s economy, each day’s business can result in benefit to each person.

                   Do you view your daily interactions as battles to be won, or do you see those events and activities as opportunities to find God’s purpose and his will for each of you whom He brings together? Living with partners; doing business God’s way, means using your relative power to influence and encourage submission and obedience to the Lord and His will. It is not to be used as a political lever to be used for leverage to win the day.

                   Living with partners in community protects you from the temptation to manipulate others. Also, a broad, inclusive view of community encourages you to follow Jesus and His will for each relationship to which he leads you.

SEPTEMBER 17–FOLLOW–FIND YOUR PARTNERS

 Is any one of you sick? If so, call the elders to have them anoint you with oil in the name of the Lord, God, and then pray over you together. Faithful, believing prayers will heal the sick; the Lord will heal. If they have sinned He will forgive. So, confess to each other and then pray for each other, so you all may be healed. The prayers of one who lives in close relationship with God are strong medicine. (James 5:14-16)    

                  The author of James paints a colorful picture of a community of faith that depends not only upon the Lord, but upon each other as they relate to God together in community. Sharing in the burdens of sin and its effects on the fragile, valuable lives of brothers and sisters in Christ is God’s expectation for His children. The pride that will tempt you to feel that you must be a perfect role model, free from temptation and error, is not from God. While you may not confess every stray thought to everyone of your people, you need strong, faithful partners for accountability and help.

                Who are your partners in the work? Are you looking for those God will lead your way to help in the work? The Lord will lead you to the community of confession and prayer and healing He has prepared for you if you will ask Him to do so.

                   Look for your partners as you follow Jesus each day.

SEPTEMBER 16 – FOLLOW – NEVER SHOW OFF

 Satan said (to Jesus), “If you are really God’s child, throw yourself down (from the rooftop of the temple). You know it has been written about you that he will send angels to protect you from harm.” But, Jesus replied, “It is also written – never presume upon God.” (Matthew 4:6-7)

                   As you look around, do you see the markers of success? Are the revenues high, are the profits trending up? Are more raving fans coming into the ranks? If so, is it because you are especially talented? Of course, you will say, “No!” Humility would require that. But, do your actions testify against you on that question? Do you charge ahead, pursuing the rational course that brought you to this place of apparent success without conferring with God each day? Some people become so successful they simply don’t have time to consider God’s will. Is that you?

                   Jesus warns against presuming what God wants. Particularly, He cautions not to expect to have somehow earned special treatment and protection from poor or selfish decisions. Satan wanted Jesus to choose the spectacular. Jesus chose to be faithful and obedient. So must you if you will follow Him and lead effectively.

                   Remember that God participates in and blesses the work He authorizes. He’s not a guaranteed rescue for those who use His name to show off.

SEPTEMBER 15 – FOLLOW-NEVER WALK ALONE

 He who lives where the Lord, God shelters him, lives in His very shadow all day. I will live there and say, “He is my safety. He is my strength and my protection. My God is my only hope, and he is who I will always be trusting.” (Psalm 91:1-2)

                  Do you find that the old axiom, “It’s lonely at the top” Is true for your life? Does it get lonelier, the higher you go; the bigger your responsibility? Loneliness is an experience shared by many leaders. It seems harder to connect with other people as many subordinates are intimidated, and the leader may struggle to be transparent or authentic with others, feeling he or she must be nearly perfect.

                   The author of this Psalm recognized that the Lord, God is the true friend. He is the one who accepts you as you are, loves you, and helps you to grow to be the person and do the work he created you to do. Jesus is the best friend for any person; every person, not only the isolated leader. So, the logical, reasonable decision for each person who follows Christ should be to “live where the Lord, God shelters him.”

                   Live in God’s shadow, all day, every day. Allow him to work through your life to love others into that relationship of intimacy with yourself and Him. Never walk alone.

SEPTEMBER 14–FOLLOW–JESUS, THE EXPERT

 Jesus responded to her (the Samaritan woman), “Everyone who drinks this (well) water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water I will give will never again thirst. The water I provide becomes a living well; life that brings new and everlasting life!” (John 4:13-14)

                   Think of all of society’s needs; the things that threaten people and destroy their lives in the world around you today. How can you know the answers? Experts are everywhere. Science studies every problem, seeking solutions. But, these problems are varied and they are interrelated in complex patterns. Jesus says these words to explain to the Samaritan woman that God has the best answers for human needs. Also, God desires the very best for His people. That is the expertise that people in the world around you need if they are to prosper.

                Recognize that – apart from God – human answers are short-term, limited responses to your peoples’ needs. Knowing that the Lord has the answers people need and that He wants each of them to find the life that is best for them, listen to Him for your guidance. Send your people to Him when they have needs.

                   Recognize that the Lord God is the true expert for all of life’s concerns.

SEPTEMBER 13–FOLLOW-FOCUS ON THE LIFE

 So, which is the easier thing; to say, “Your sins have been forgiven,” or to say, “Get up and walk?” (Matthew 9:5)

                   Physical needs, financial concerns, health issues, and social concerns are so important. These problems are the issues with which most leaders are engaged. The world around you will rate various of these needs as primary. Which of these are most important to you? Where do you focus your attention each day?

                   Jesus gives evidence here of His focus. The harder thing; the important thing is the sin that separates men and women from the Lord, God. The focus of Jesus’ life – His purpose and work – was the restoration of that relationship. His business was – and is – life, spiritual life. He made a way for people to live as God intended. If you are following Jesus; if in fact He is your life, will that not be your focus too? The world’s material health and social needs are practical problems worthy of address. Be the one who brings the Lord’s spiritual answers to those problems.

                   Help your people; those God sends to you, to see that Jesus is the bread they need for life that matters (John 6:35). Like Jesus, let your business be bringing life to other people every day.

SEPTEMBER 12- FOLLOW-BE THE BACKGROUND

 And I, if I may be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto myself. (John 12:32)

                   Self-esteem, self-promotion, self-reliance, self-assurance, self-determination… Are these the phrases others use to describe you? Are these characteristics the traits that you value? If so, how do you reconcile them with your role as one who follows Jesus; one who is completely submissive to His will for your life?

                This simple statement of Jesus provides a vivid picture of the proper focus of your esteem, promotion, reliance, assurance, and determination. For a follower of Christ, to live and work is to reflect His image. You will be the background music; the canvas on which His love is displayed (lifted up) for others to see. When that is your life, Jesus will draw others to Himself, and they will experience His transforming work in their lives. You are probably more comfortable relying on you, but that is not God’s way. His way is a relationship where every movement is motivated by Him, and you depend entirely on Him.

                   Have the courage to simply be the follower. Rest in Christ, and just be you as He leads.

SEPTEMBER 11 – DETAILS…. WHO ARE WE?

 And this – This is His will (the Father, God) – that I will not lose any person he has given to me. They are mine, and I will raise them up on that last day. (John 6:39)

                   You are a child of the Lord, God. He has called you to a life of following Jesus Christ; to be a part of the story of His work in this world today. That is your identity. You are a Christ-follower. You do not have to waste time trying to find yourself, nor figure out your purpose in life. That identity and your purpose have been given to you by God. Will you give this identity; this purpose to your people? Or, will you allow them to struggle and search for it in an effort to find themselves?

                   Jesus understood His role. He says clearly in this passage, “God has given me a people to save, and I will deliver them safely home.” With Christ living in you – consuming your thoughts and controlling your actions – this is your work with the people He has given you as well. God has promised that he will complete the work in and through your life. This is a promise to every believer. When you know this, you can find rest in the Lord. You can know who you are!

                   Lead your people to understand their identity as followers of Jesus Christ. Help them to walk each day in the confidence of His love.

SEPTEMBER 10–DETAILS...COUNT THE TOUCHES

 Put my words in your hearts. Repeat them to your people diligently; whether at home, traveling, and even when sleeping or rising. Have them always at hand, and always on your minds. (Deuteronomy 6:6-9)

                   Your vision; the work that the Lord God has given you to do, is the priority for you and your people. Do you repeat it frequently to them? Is it on their minds when they wake up? Do they go to sleep at night thinking about the values you have communicated to them frequently and urgently? When they make decisions at their work each day, are these concepts etched in their hearts?

                   Moses knew the value of repetition. He urged the Israelites to treasure, value, teach, and even obsess about God’s word for them. He knew that these were the words of life. Moses knew that God’s people must follow, in every detail – as their top priority, the word of the Lord God. The same is true today for your people; if they are to be successful, they must follow the Lord’s will for their lives. Repetition, constant and consistent, will help them remember to consider the vision and the values you have received from the Lord, and have communicated to them.

                   Touch them often with God’s words. Saturate them in the story of his work in your life, and His desire to work in their lives.

SEPTEMBER 9 – DETAILS…. CHECK THE MIRROR

 Another of the people following Jesus asked, “Lord first (Before I follow you), I need to go see to my father’s burial and affairs. He’s dying, you know. But Jesus said to him, “You follow me now. Come and work with the living. Others can deal with the dead.” (Matthew 8:21-22)

                   Jesus is counter-cultural. The world tells you to complain; to view events selfishly, and to follow the rules. Jesus says, “No! You have been given a unique opportunity to change the world!” Every moment of your life is brimming with the opportunity that comes from being one of the few who are really living. Will you seize each day, and attack with creative, imaginative energy? Will you use the entrepreneurial spirit that has placed you where you are to transform your people? When you look in the mirror are you serving Jesus, or are you serving yourself?

                   Jesus told this gentleman, “You are more!” And, before he could protest or question, Jesus explained to him that few have found real life, and those who find that life are in the business of helping others to find it. “Follow me – live with the living – help others find life,” He counseled.

                   Use all your creativity; everything you can imagine, and all that you know – every day – to follow Jesus, and to lead others to Him.

SEPTEMBER 8–DETAILS...SPEAK THE LANGUAGE

 If the speaker knows not the language of the hearer, and the hearer does not understand the language of the speakers, how will they relate? They will each be to the other as a deaf and mute person. They can’t relate or communicate.           (1 Corinthians 14:11)

                   Language is surprisingly complex. It is not simply words strung together into sentences. Language is a tool; complete with complex rules and methods, words, and even the “how.” Often, the medium – the how – becomes the message. You must decide what language should be used. What is the medium; the delivery method for your story and the message God has given you to communicate?

                   Paul speaks further about those who look to impress others, or to advance their own, personal cause or benefit. He argues that the purpose of communication is not to promote yourself, or even your message. It is rather to communicate the truth of Christ to your people. Otherwise, he cautions, you will impress only yourself. Your people won’t understand. They won’t benefit or be changed.

                   Learn the language your people understand. Communicate using the means, the methods, and the words they understand. Focus on their languages so they will understand the way to God.

SEPTEMBER 7–DETAILS… KNOW THE AUDIENCE

 If you don’t speak words your audience can easily understand, how are they to know? You’ll be talking to yourself. There are so many kinds of languages. Each one is important. (1 Corinthians 14:9-10)

                   People everywhere understand and enjoy stories. Stories communicate life. They relate deep truths in a comfortable way. But, stories must relate to the everyday experience of the listener or they do not communicate. Do you know your people? Do you understand how they view the world and their lives in that world? If not, how will you tell your story in a way they will understand? Visions, values, interpretations; all of these are important. They communicate truth. But, the stories you tell, and the way you teach these truths must be relevant to everyday life or they will just be words.

                   Paul is talking to people whom he suspects are trying to elevate themselves – become important in their church – by speaking in tongues. He explains to them that they are communicating with no one unless they speak in a way that their audience will understand.

                   Exert the effort. Do the work you must do to know your people. Understand their lives so that you can tell your story in clear and meaningful ways.

SEPTEMBER 6 – DETAILS…. KNOW YOUR STORY

 Now the man (from whom Jesus took away the demons) begged Jesus that he may stay with Him, but Jesus sent him away saying, “Go back to your people and tell them what the Lord God has done for you.” So, the man went and told his whole community all the great things Jesus had done for him. (Luke 8:38-39)

                   Have you considered what the Lord has done for you? If you are going to introduce other people to Jesus should you not have a clear, compelling reason to do that? What has Jesus done for you that you could not do for yourself? What change did that make in your life? How did it happen? The Bible is one long story that continues into our present day. Your experience with Jesus is another chapter of that Jesus story.

                   This passage relates a common desire you may have. When Jesus acts in your life, you may wish to stay with Him; to simply enjoy being healed by him. But, Jesus explains to this man that he must now take responsibility for the new life he has been given. He must begin immediately to live the mission. His job now is to live as evidence of Christ’s work in this world.

                   That is your work as well. Know your story! Be ready to share that story as a part of God’s work in His world when He sends others to you.

SEPTEMBER 5 – REMEMBERING TO MAINTAIN

 If your life is going to be fundamentally this way, you must live in constant relationship with the Lord’s Holy Spirit. If not, you may become conceited; even be competitive and envious about your spirituality. We’re in this together. Spend your time caring for your brother or sister who may be tempted, while guarding your own relationship with Christ Jesus. (Galatians 5:25-6:1)

                  People can lose their way at any time; even when you least expect it. Often, success that leads to power or position can insulate you and your leaders from the critical voices that remind you of your human frailty. Each person needs the connection with others that comes from community. Do you have people around you who insure that you maintain your focus on God? Have you established accountability for other leaders to be challenged regularly?

                  Here, Paul gives a principle, a warning, and a prescription for health. You will do well for your people to hear his words. First, Paul explains that there is ongoing work required if you wish to maintain a healthy organization. People must continually be directed to attend to their relationship with God. Then, he explains what happens if you don’t do that work. Finally, he gives a very practical, general process for how to be sure that you do the work to continue moving forward God’s way.

                  You know your people and their context. Let the Holy Spirit lead you to specific ways to live this counsel from Paul.