What can we learn about leadership from the actions in 2 Chronicles 35:9? Setting the Scene King Josiah is restoring the Passover. The priests and Levites have been positioned, the sacrifices prepared, and now certain Levite leaders step forward with remarkable generosity. Key Verse “Conaniah, along with Shemaiah and Nethanel his brothers, and Hashabiah, Jeiel and Jozabad, the leaders of the Levites, provided 5,000 Passover offerings for the Levites and 500 bulls.” (2 Chronicles 35:9) Leadership Lessons Drawn from the Verse • Lead by giving first – These six men didn’t wait for others to supply resources; they initiated generosity. – Genuine leaders shoulder personal cost before asking others to sacrifice (cf. 1 Chronicles 29:3–5; John 10:11). • Provide for those you serve – The offerings were “for the Levites,” ensuring the workforce had what was needed. – Effective leadership anticipates and meets practical needs (Acts 6:1–4; Philippians 4:18). • Act in unity – Note the repeated phrase “along with… and.” The leaders stood together. – Unity among leaders strengthens the whole body (Psalm 133:1; Philippians 2:2). • Model faith-filled obedience – The Law prescribed sacrifices; these men responded literally and abundantly. – Obedience to God’s revealed Word anchors leadership (Deuteronomy 5:29; James 1:22). • Mobilize resources proportionate to the task – 5,000 lambs and 500 bulls match the nationwide scale of Josiah’s Passover. – Visionary leaders size their contributions to fit God-given assignments (Luke 14:28–30). Supporting Scriptural Echoes • Proverbs 3:9—“Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • 2 Corinthians 9:7—“Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion.” • 1 Timothy 6:18—“Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.” Practical Takeaways for Today • Begin every project by asking, “What can I personally supply?” • Budget for ministry the way these Levites did—generously and specifically. • Cultivate unity among leadership teams; linked arms inspire wider participation. • Anchor every decision in Scripture, treating God’s commands as literal marching orders. • Match resources to vision; small goals invite small giving, but God-sized goals stir God-sized generosity. |
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