How can we honor leaders like Ibzan who "judged Israel" in our communities? Learning from Ibzan’s brief but faithful record Judges 12:10 tells us, “Then Ibzan died and was buried in Bethlehem.” Though the Holy Spirit gives only three verses about him, every word is intentional. Ibzan’s seven-year judgeship, his large family, and his final resting place in Bethlehem all testify that God raises up real people to govern His people for real seasons. Honoring modern leaders begins by recognizing that pattern. Why honoring leaders matters • God Himself appoints governing authorities (Romans 13:1-2). • Respect for leaders reflects respect for God’s order (1 Peter 2:13-17). • Grateful support frees leaders to “labor in preaching and teaching” (1 Timothy 5:17). Heart attitudes to cultivate • Gratitude—thank God openly for the men and women He raises up. • Humility—submit to legitimate authority unless commanded to sin (Acts 5:29). • Discernment—test everything by Scripture while resisting cynicism (1 John 4:1). • Hope—trust that God can use even flawed leaders for His purposes, as He did throughout Judges. Practical ways to honor leaders in church, home, and civic life 1. Speak well – Guard your tongue from gossip (James 3:9-10). – Publicly acknowledge leaders’ labor (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). 2. Pray consistently – Intercede “for all who are in authority” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). – Ask God to grant wisdom, courage, and integrity. 3. Offer tangible support – Provide resources and time that lighten leaders’ loads (Galatians 6:6). – Encourage sabbath rest; Ibzan’s burial in Bethlehem reminds us leaders are mortal and need renewal. 4. Emulate their faith – Follow leaders as they follow Christ (Hebrews 13:7). – Let their obedience spur personal obedience. 5. Participate, don’t spectate – Serve alongside leaders; Ibzan’s large family suggests shared responsibility. – Use your gifts to advance the mission (1 Peter 4:10). 6. Provide loving accountability – Confront sin biblically and respectfully when necessary (Matthew 18:15-17). – Uphold leaders who discipline themselves under God’s Word. 7. Preserve and retell godly legacies – Record testimonies; teach children about faithful leaders of the past, including Ibzan. – Celebrate anniversaries and milestones to keep gratitude alive (Joshua 4:6-7). A vision worth pursuing Honoring leaders like Ibzan is not mere courtesy; it is obedience that blesses the entire community. When believers practice gratitude, prayer, support, imitation, participation, accountability, and remembrance, they strengthen today’s leaders and prepare tomorrow’s—ensuring that, long after any individual is “buried in Bethlehem,” Christ’s kingdom work continues with power. |
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