April 16, 2016: SOAP #2326:

Scripture: 1Samuel (NIV) 18:6 When the men were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out from all the towns of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing, with joyful songs and with tambourines and lutes. 7 As they danced, they sang: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.” 8 Saul was very angry; this refrain galled him. “They have credited David with tens of thousands,” he thought, “but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?” 9 And from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David.

Observation: What a classic mistake for a leader—to be jealous of the accomplishments of someone who serves under their authority. Instead of being their greatest cheer-leader, they undermine their subordinate’s accomplishments and claim they are of little importance. They feel threatened thinking that the subordinate will someday take their position.

Application: Instead of dominating others, I need to see myself as the soil in which the next generation of leaders is planted and growing. Their accomplishments speak well of the soil in which they were planted and grew. My goal is that the future be in good hands.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, direct my thoughts and input into future leaders. May you get much praise from their ministry! Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!