In what ways can we ensure our leadership glorifies God as Tola's did? Setting the Scene “After Abimelech’s reign had ended, Tola son of Puah, the son of Dodo, arose to save Israel. He was from Issachar and lived in Shamir in the hill country of Ephraim. He judged Israel twenty-three years; then he died and was buried in Shamir.” In just two verses the Spirit paints a portrait of a leader whose tenure brought quiet stability after national chaos. Though Scripture records no spectacular exploits, the length of Tola’s judgeship hints at godly, peace-producing leadership. Marks of God-Glorifying Leadership Drawn from Tola • Stepping up when the need is clear – “arose to save Israel.” • Serving where God plants you – in Shamir, away from tribal spotlight. • Sustaining righteousness over time – twenty-three steady years. • Finishing well – no scandal, simply “buried in Shamir.” Principles We Can Practice 1. Embrace God’s call, not personal ambition • 1 Samuel 12:3-5 – Samuel’s transparent integrity. • Proverbs 14:34 – “Righteousness exalts a nation.” 2. Lead quietly but decisively • Ecclesiastes 9:17 – “The quiet words of the wise are heeded…” • Matthew 6:1 – serve for the Father’s approval, not applause. 3. Prioritize salvation and safety of those you serve • Mark 10:45 – the Son of Man came “to serve, and to give His life as a ransom.” • Nehemiah 2:17-18 – practical steps to “repair the wall.” 4. Cultivate consistency over flashes of brilliance • 2 Timothy 4:7 – fight the good fight, finish the race, keep the faith. • Proverbs 20:6 – faithful people are rare treasures. 5. Keep rooted in your community • Acts 20:28 – shepherd “the flock among you.” • 1 Peter 5:2-3 – oversight that is eager, exemplary, and local. Guardrails for Lasting Faithfulness • Daily submission to God’s Word – Psalm 119:105. • Accountability with trustworthy peers – Proverbs 27:17. • Quick repentance when sin appears – 1 John 1:9. • Regular remembrance of God’s past deliverances – Deuteronomy 8:2. Practical Takeaways for Every Sphere of Leadership – Parents: rescue children from spiritual drift by modeling daily devotion. – Pastors: labor for steady health of the flock, not constant novelty. – Employers: create workplaces where righteousness and fairness reign. – Civic leaders: enact justice that reflects God’s character (Micah 6:8). – Students or teammates: influence through integrity and quiet service. Tola’s understated story reminds us that leadership glorifies God when it rises to meet need, honors Him in the ordinary, and perseveres in righteousness until the final breath. |
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