Your way or the highway!
We continue the story of Johanan and his rebellion against the word of the Lord. He not only rejects what the Lord has spoken, but his leadership also carries others with him into disobedience.
"But Johanan the son of Kareah and all the captains of the forces took all the remnant of Judah who had returned to dwell in the land of Judah, from all nations where they had been driven- men, women, children, the king's daughters, and every person whom Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard had left with Gedaliah the son of Ahikam, the son of Shaphan, and Jeremiah the prophet and Baruch the son of Neriah." Jeremiah 43:5-6
Johanan was leading the charge. He rejected the word of the Lord and used his influence and authority to take the remnant of Judah with him to Egypt, including Jeremiah and Baruch. Rather than submitting to the Lord's direction, Johanan was determined to go his own way. It was his way or the highway!
How do you lead?
We discussed something similar as a church while reading Philemon. We all have choices to make in how we use the influence and authority we've been given. Do we lead with a heavy hand and by compulsion, or do we lovingly appeal to and encourage those around us?
Of course, Johanan was leading people in the wrong direction, so that's out altogether for you and me! But the question still remains: How will you influence and lead others?
Our words, actions, and hearts should point others toward Christ, His kingdom, and the cross. Let's choose wisely how we use the influence God has given us.
It's not your way or the highway... it's always the Lord's way!
-To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.