Enjoy this post from the DeliberateU archives....
My mind is grappling with the reality of leadership in this lost and broken world. Twice this morning I listened to different leaders reflect upon very challenging circumstances: workplace bullying in one business and, in another business, a team member being abused in their personal world.
The reality of Jesus’ words in John 17 echoed in my mind as I listened to these leaders engage in the very real and present leadership challenges of their world.
Sobered by these circumstances, I paused and read John 17. As I did, I could sense His spirit renewing me…reminding me of what was true, right there in the midst of so many unresolved and challenging issues. I needed the REMINDING. Perhaps you do too.
What evolved out of my being “reminded” was this prayer for you and me. Will you pray with me?
Father, may we learn what it means to live with a full measure of Your joy in the midst of such a broken world. Help us to understand how to find our strength in Your joy rather than only relying on our own personal strength, intellect or will.
Help us to realize that our acknowledgment, our sense of value and worth does not come from the praises and accolades of clients, suppliers, team members, or our families and friends. Help us, as leaders, to find our hope in You and in You alone.
Protect us from the evil one. Help us to seek first Your kingdom and not listen to the taunts of our own flesh or of the one who is out to destroy us.
Father…help us grow in godly character. We desperately need to become more and more like Your Son. As our roots grow deeper into You, may the fruit of Your spirit--of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control--be how we are more frequently known to everyone we meet.
Father, transform our souls and our bodies to become more and more like You. Help us to be men and women who “no longer conform to the patterns of this world”!
Father, teach us the kingdom way of doing community. We confess that we sometimes don't do this very well. Show us our role in bringing Your hope into broken places. Help us become more “one” with You and with one another. We pray that Your message of faith, hope, and love will encourage and transform those around us… those You have brought into our businesses and families…those You have entrusted to us.
We pray that there would be generations of Christ-followers because of Your work in and through us! We trust You for those who will believe in You because of Your message being echoed through our lives.
Amen
Deliberate Application:
Would you stop to pray?
If not now, when will you do so?
Who will you share this with?
