“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." Luke 16:10 NIV
A healthy lesson for successful leaders is delegation. A leader who does everything without help may achieve goals in the short run but ultimately burns out. Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, advised him to appoint judges (Exodus 18:14-24), and the disciples selected deacons (Acts 6:1-6).
A leader's wisdom is displayed in identifying the right people as helpers. Some folks willingly seek new responsibilities for growth, while others, though not strictly dishonest, are complacent–they're there for the check. For the leader, this is the Biblical equivalent of sorting the sheep from the goats.
Once the eager are identified, the leader assigns lesser essential tasks to the new folks. The leader wants them to succeed, build their confidence, and groom them for larger, more critical items in the future. If the leader is fortunate, some have already demonstrated their abilities to work independently and do the job well. To them, the leader assigns greater responsibilities.
When we accept Christ, we become His workers. Sometimes, we may be that untested person taking on a new assignment for the first time. At yet others, we may be the experienced senior worker, ready to wade in rolled up sleeves. All tasks are essential! What matters is our willingness over capabilities–God provides the gifts and graces. One thing is for sure; there are no non-workers (no goats) and no sitting back collecting a check.
God, thank you for the work you've given us, sharing the good news and caring for others. Help us discern where, when, and how you desire to use us. Where we have timidity, grant us courage and, doubt, confidence. May our willingness to be workers be a fragrant offering to you. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
