Today in Mathew’s gospel (23:1-12) Jesus tells the people to do what the Pharisees tell them for Pharisees know what God is asking of His people. However, Jesus warns them not to follow their example. He says “For they preach but they do not practice”. Jesus is telling the people that Pharisees know what God is asking of his people but they do not do it themselves.
Here again is an example of the Bible teaching us about solid leadership. Have you ever worked for, worked with or been on a team with someone who is a “do as I say person”? What kind of feelings did you have towards that person? Were they someone who brought out the best in you? In the times where I have been in this situation I found it hard to respect this person.
According to Jesus the Pharisees “tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them”. The people who act in this way generally frustrate other team members and kill team morale. Good leadership in my experience is about setting the example.
It is easiest to follow those that know where to go and lead the team from the front. The best team leaders are those that are not afraid to stand alongside other members and pick up the slack.
I have been the “do as I say guy” and witnessed the results on morale. I often fall short because it is easy to get complacent and just give orders. This is not what Jesus is asking of me… “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted”.
When working with or leading others remember to be humble enough to help carry the load.
GVW4U 