Testy Critics and Dull Disciples
In his sermon on Matthew 16:1–12, Pastor Chuck Swindoll helps you avoid dullness and deception in your journey so you can be spiritually whole.
Vision, integrity, articulation, courage, and a thick skin—all are the basic requirements for leadership. Other requirements could be added; for the follower of Christ, godliness is essential. Whether in government, business, education, ministry, or the home, these six traits form the foundation of successful Christian leadership. These qualities do not come through osmosis but through disciplined study and practice, often marked by failure. However, the greatest leaders are not deterred by hardship and failure. Theirs is a high calling with deep responsibility.
If you are in a position of leadership—and chances are good that you are—you may need to sharpen your vision for the future, strengthen your integrity, and find new sources of courage. Insight for Living, by introducing you to godly leaders of the past, is committed to encouraging you in this pursuit, as well as challenging you to grow in godliness.
In his sermon on Matthew 16:1–12, Pastor Chuck Swindoll helps you avoid dullness and deception in your journey so you can be spiritually whole.
When you accept Christ as your Saviour you have someone who is always your advocate; always in your corner. And when you forgive those who hurt you, you model Christ. And you become a little more like Him.
Do you remember a great teacher you had? When people are given the space to make mistakes and grow at their own pace, it makes a lasting impact.
Strong Leadership is essential. If you’re in a position of influence, consider the example of Christ. He came not to be served but to serve. Strong leadership is servant leadership.
God offers to each of us at least two great moments in life: the moment when we were born—though we might not wish to dwell on the number of birthdays from that day to this—and the moment we realize why we were born.
Rebellious; selfish; litigious: each an apt description of modern society. Gone are the days, or so it seems, of teachable spirits, humility, and respect for authority.
History is replete with the power of one; with those who owned the rare commodity of moral courage—those daring individuals who were “willing to brave the disapproval of their fellows, the censure of their colleagues, and the wrath of their society.” Esther was one of those.
Nehemiah was known and respected for his diligence as a contractor and builder, while his contemporary, Ezra was a dedicated scribe and priest.
Today’s workplace demands much from us: creativity, leadership, ideas, and enthusiasm. Oftentimes we’re tempted to give our workplace the best of us. If you are drowning in a lack of energy at home, you are doing too much outside to stay afloat. Learn to say “no.”
We all have a desire to be important. But life isn’t about satisfying our desires. It’s about leaving a legacy of a well-lived life. And God has made it plain how to do that.