How should believers respond to God's chosen leaders in their communities? Setting the Scene Samuel hears the LORD say: “At this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. You are to anoint him ruler over My people Israel. He will save them from the hand of the Philistines, for I have looked upon My people, because their cry has come to Me.” (1 Samuel 9:16) What God’s Choice Teaches Us • God initiates leadership. Saul is “sent” by the LORD, not self-appointed. • Appointment flows from compassion: “I have looked upon My people.” Leadership is a mercy, not merely an office. • Purpose is clear: “He will save them.” God raises leaders for the good of His people and the advance of His plan. Practical Ways to Respond to God-Appointed Leaders 1. Respect God’s Sovereign Selection • Romans 13:1—“There is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been appointed by God.” • Our attitude toward leaders reflects our attitude toward the One who placed them. 2. Pray Consistently • 1 Timothy 2:1-2—supplications “for kings and all in authority,” so that peace and godliness may flourish. • Prayer guards our hearts from cynicism and invites God’s blessing on community life. 3. Support with Obedience and Cooperation • Hebrews 13:17—“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls… so that their work will be a joy, not a burden.” • Practical cooperation frees leaders to focus on the mission God has assigned. 4. Honor Tangibly • 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13—“Acknowledge those who work hard among you… Hold them in highest regard in love because of their work.” • Encouraging words, shared resources, and patient understanding all express biblical honor. Balancing Submission with Discernment • Scripture never calls blind allegiance. Saul later disobeyed God (1 Samuel 15), and Samuel faithfully confronted him. • Acts 5:29 sets the boundary: “We must obey God rather than men.” • When leaders deviate from God’s Word, believers remain respectful yet anchored to truth, seeking redress through prayerful, biblical means. Encouragement for Today God still “looks upon His people” and provides leaders for their good. By responding with respect, prayer, cooperation, tangible honor, and Scriptural discernment, believers align themselves with the Lord’s purposes and become partners in His ongoing care for the community. |
    |