Dealing with and Being a Leader

(Prov 20:2 MSG) Quick-tempered leaders are like mad dogs-cross them and they bite your head off.

This morning we continue in the book of Proverbs – As we study the scriptures in this book we are walking in the Wisdom of God."

Other translations say, "Kings" where this one says, "Leaders." If you’re in my life group you will know that many times I like to use the Message bible translation as it is really is an easy way of understanding what the scripture is saying. So for this message I am using the Message bibles translation as I like the verbiage for this teaching.

Understanding the king's power, especially in Solomon's time, was extremely important because it was absolute. If the king was in bad mood, everyone could suffer. If the king was unhappy with you, for whatever reason, he could have you put to death. There were no checks or balances, no restrictions of power, and no term limits. A king, being a sovereign, was a supreme ruler of his territory - period. This power could be used positively or negatively; with dramatic results either way.

Back in chapter 16 Solomon said, "An angry ruler can put you to death. So be wise! Don't make one angry" (v.14). While it would be nice for every leader to be a Godly leader, the fact is that we will encounter leaders who are NOT humble, loving, caring, compassionate, or peaceful. Many leaders are irritable, short-tempered, and moody. Dealing with moody leaders today is bad, but in Solomon's day it was exceptionally risky because they could have you killed. It's dangerous to deal with someone who yields exceptional power without constraint or control. So if you have to deal with a moody leader walk cautiously and carefully, pray BEFORE you deal with them, and also pray FOR them. You can find peace in knowing that you have Godly protection and that their poison cannot stop God's purpose in your life. But if you allow Him, God can use you to bring about a positive change in your in leader and in your environment.

But just like an irritable, short-tempered, and moody leader can bring down the atmosphere that he or she oversees, an upbeat, positive, and pleasant leader can establish an encouraging environment that will benefit all those under their sphere of influence. Never underestimate the difference a positive leader, with a positive countenance, can make in an organization its people. In other words, never underestimate the influence YOU can have as a Godly leader. Whether it's at home (over your family), at work (over your subordinates), or at church (over the LORD's flock), the countenance of the leader will set the environment for the led.

In our office our CEO was in the military and he was a commander in the Air Force and as a result we have learned a term for this that they use in the military it is call the "Command Climate." The Commander sets the climate for those under his or her command, and if the climate is negative, rest assured the command will be negative and people will be apprehensive about presenting new ideas, in fear of being 'shot down' (or in Solomon's time, killed). Once you stifle creativity, it's just a matter of time before your organization's productivity diminishes and progress is brought to a standstill. However, if your climate is positive and you foster an environment where creativity is welcomed and rewarded, you will have an organization that is inventive, ingenious, and industrious.

So what does this mean to you? Two things:
1. When dealing with your leader: If you have to deal with a moody leader God can give you the wisdom to go in out and before them unscathed and the influence to bring out positive change in your leader and organization. A 360-degree leader does not require the title to lead.

2. When you are the leader: If you are a leader, you must remember the importance of preparing yourself to lead. Spend time in prayer BEFORE you spend time with your people. Cast your cares and concerns on God; receive His joy, peace and wisdom, and enter each day ready to make a difference. If you do you will lift your subordinates UP TO YOUR LEVEL.

Father, I thank for giving me the insight to be able to lead up, across, and down. I am a 360-degree leader who can lead from any place in my organization. I make a positive impact everywhere I go. I will spend time with YOU BEFORE I spend time others, so my time with others is more effective. As I walk with You, You help develop me into the exceptional leader You desire for me to be. I have a genuine care and concern for my superiors and subordinates and since my sincerity comes across in my words, disposition and countenance. I am able to establish a positive climate every day! In Jesus' name. Amen!