Healthy Leaders Rest

Numbers 19; Numbers 20; Psalm 28; Mark 5

Scripture:
Numbers 20: 11 Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.
12 But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them."

Observation:
Moses frustration leads to sin and disobedience. He got so wrapped up with the complaints of the people that he forgot to point them to God and give Him the honor. Moses was tied of the people and his influence as a leader was being effected.

Application:
Leadership is not easy and Moses was one of the greatest leaders in the history of Israel. Moses grew wearing and lost focus on the authority and position of leadership God had given him. He began to lead out of his flesh and that disqualified him from the promise land. How about me and my leadership? Many times I fail. Many times I lose my cool, get frustrated and say things I should not. Most of the times this happens when I am running on empty. I too often get to this place because of long hours, stress and the lack of keeping my rocks in place. I am glad that
I’m going on a vacation this Sunday. I am excited, it is one of the first vacations in years that I am taking for myself and my wife. The sad question is what took me so long? Why did I not take more vacations. I have missed out on rest, quality time with my wife and fun. AS I look back, I realize my insecurities have stopped me from taking a break, not just vacations, but also honoring my day off. My insecurities, these to often rob me of my joy, peace and fun. Insecurities like the ministry needs me, I have to get the job done, if I don’t who will? All these suck the life out of me and effect my leadership ability. I know that I am in a new season. I feel that I’m asking the right questions and coming back to a place of balance, rest and healthy living. At the end of it all, my leadership influence and pointing people to God is the most important part of my calling. If I lose those, I will not be leading anyone!

Prayer:
Father thank You for the reminder today that leaders need to rest. I thank You for my upcoming vacation with Cindy and I ask You to bless our time. I pray for refreshing and fun. Go before us and work all the details. I pray that I would have some special moments with You too. I need to hear from You, to draw close to You and to be in Your presence. Forgive me for the times of business and stress. Forgive me for not leading well and for the frustrations and bad behaviors that creep in. I know that You have called and chosen me. I pray that I would lead well today and point others to You. Guide my steps today and help me to be effective. Thank You for all You are doing Lord. I love and bless Your Holy Name.
Amen.