Master Your Spiritual Discernment to See Right as a Leader

“[2] … Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” [3] When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. — Matthew 2:2 - 3 NIV

Being in leadership for years, I’ve had the privilege of seeing some people grow from infants in Christ to maturing and mature Christians in the faith. I’ve encountered and counselled several ministers who were so secure in their position that they didn’t think training a successor was needed. Meanwhile, it’s something very essential in leadership.

As a leader, when you’re so filled with yourself and relaxed in your position, you’ll not see the need to raise the next generation to continue the vision. And by that happening, it becomes a nuisance to see a future in the upcoming generation. And that was the case of Herod.

When the Magi (wise men) visited him to show them where Jesus (the King of the Jews) was born, he was troubled. Yes, indeed, Jesus’ kingdom isn’t from this Earth. So by saying “The King of the Jews,” Matthew referred to Jesus being the captain of all believers’ salvation (see Hebrews 2:10).

Therefore, it was baseless for Herod to be disturbed. But I don’t blame him because he lacked spiritual discernment.

Herod thought Jesus came to replace him on the physical throne. Meanwhile, Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost (Luke 19:10). So His throne wasn’t earthly. But Herod didn’t know. And sadly, the scribes didn’t also understand Micah’s prophecy about Jesus’ birth (see Micah 5:2) well to explain it to him.

All of Herod’s attempts to kill Jesus failed. In fact, he ended up dead because he wanted to terminate the life of the one God had chosen.

As a leader, you must master your spiritual discernment to see right in situations and people’s potential. If you don’t, you’ll make wrong decisions and pursuits contrary to the vision God gave you, which can cost your life as Herod’s own was.

Don’t mess with the people God has appointed, lest you jeopardise your life. Welcome them in the fear and admonition of the Lord. And contribute to their growth. God will reward you for that labour.

You’re a blessing.

Prayer:

Father, help me see people as You see them. So that, by discernment, I’d be intentional about treating them well regardless of their background. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

Devotional Code: KGD – 2023 – 353