Follow The Leader

As children, we played a game called “Follow the Leader.” In this game, one child was selected as the “leader”. The remaining children followed the “leader” around the playground mimicking the actions and path of the “leader.” Anyone who failed to follow the exact movements of the “leader” ceased participating. As adults, we decide who we will follow. Will we follow the crowd? Do our own thing? Or surrender to God as a leader? So who’s the leader in your life?

The Story: 1 Samuel 23

In 1 Samuel 23, David heard that the Philistines attacked Keilah. David asked the Lord if they should pursue the Philistines. Although the Lord said pursue, the men in his army were fearful and requested that David inquire of God again. David asked and God confirmed their pursuit and that He would deliver the Philistines into their hand.

David and the army pursued, killed the Philistines, and saved Keilah. While the army rescued the hunted, Saul and his army sought to kill David. With the new threat, David inquired of the Lord regarding Saul’s pursuit. God confirmed that Saul would seek his life, but God would protect him. As a result, David would stay in one place and people would tell Saul. By the time Saul arrived, David would be safe in another place.

The Lesson

David had two opportunities to choose a leader. The first time involved the Philistines. Although He chose God as his leader, the army wanted to choose fear. Yet they knew that David followed God. With God as the leader, they overtook the enemy and saved the people. On the second occasion, David heard about Saul’s pursuit. Instead of leaning on his own desires, David knew that success relies on making God his leader and following Him accordingly. Following God as his leader became David’s consistent position.

So, who’s your leader? Who or what do you follow? Does the crowd sway what you do? Is God your leader? These questions endeavor to help you discover who your leader is.

Of course, many of us would proclaim, “God is my leader.” But He told you to start a business and you respond with all the reasons why now isn’t the time. He told you to relocate, but you can’t leave your family, friends, and the comforts of home. It’s easy to proclaim God as your leader when His words align with our desires. How about when He asks you to go places you don’t want to?

There’s hope to assist in your surrender to God. Psalm 143:10 ~ “Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.” Ask God to show you how to surrender to His will. When He unctions you, convey any concerns and comply. Ultimately, our obedience is a sweet-smelling savor to God and leads to His plan for our lives.