How can Isaiah 51:18 inspire us to seek God's wisdom in leadership? Verse in focus: Isaiah 51:18 “Among all the sons she has borne there is none to guide her; among all the sons she has reared there is none to take her by the hand.” The void of guidance exposed • Jerusalem is pictured as a mother whose grown children fail to step up. • Absence of leadership leads to aimlessness, sorrow, and continued judgment (see Isaiah 51:19–20). • The verse highlights a desperate need for godly direction rather than merely human strength. Lessons for leaders today • Position alone does not guarantee wisdom; the “sons” existed, yet none could guide. • True leadership requires a readiness to “take by the hand” — personal involvement, sacrifice, responsibility. • God measures leadership by service and care (Mark 10:42-45). Why God’s wisdom is indispensable • Wisdom originates with the Lord: “For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6). • Human insight is limited: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5-6). • God’s Word equips leaders: “All Scripture is God-breathed … so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Practical ways to seek His wisdom • Daily, humble Scripture intake—start leadership planning by opening the Bible before opening the calendar. • Consistent prayer for discernment—“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God” (James 1:5). • Surround yourself with godly counselors—“Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety” (Proverbs 11:14). • Obedient response to known truth—acting on what God has already revealed invites further insight (John 7:17). Assurance from God’s character • The Lord does not leave His people leaderless forever (Isaiah 40:11). • He promises to guide the willing: “Your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it’” (Isaiah 30:21). • When earthly leadership falters, Christ remains the unfailing Shepherd and Wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24). |
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