Go After God's HeartSample

The New Normal

When you step into God’s momentum, you’ll gain the adversity of people who are outside it. To lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ is to follow closely after Him yourself. This narrow path comes with God’s favor but also with your enemy’s disapproval. To be a leader is to walk toward struggle.

Between the years 1007 and 1009 B.C., David had gained favor in the eyes of the people and Saul’s son, Jonathan, due to his brave pursuit of God’s will for Israel. Yet, with each step David took toward integrity, King Saul grew with jealousy. David kept doing what was right, and he kept facing the disapproval of his earthly king. As leaders, we experience similar phenomena. Right when we think we might be doing exactly what God wants, all hell breaks loose. Sometimes we even question whether we’re in God’s will at all. Why would I be leading a marriage small group if my own marriage keeps getting attacked? Why am I trying to lead others when my own children don’t even seem to want to follow me?

Eventually, King Saul grew so hateful of David he ordered him killed. Yet, due to David’s obedience to God, Jonathan had grown to like David and was able to help avert his death. Later in 1 Samuel 19, David’s wife would do the same, and finally God directly intervened to protect David. We may not face death like David, but we will face difficulty. What we do with it will determine how well we can lead others.

Leader Tip: Adversity is the norm for leaders. Stick with what’s right, and you’ll develop both character and followers.