John Stanko

“Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy and say to them: ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Woe to you shepherds of Israel who only take care of yourselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock?'" - Ezekiel 34:2.

God was upset with the leaders in Israel because of their misguided values. Instead of taking care of their followers, the leaders were taking care of themselves and God was not pleased. God places leaders in the Church and over other entities like business and governments to take care of people and meet their needs. When this doesn't happen, leaders tend to use their power, which was given to empower others, to grab what is most important to them—money, position, prestige, or ego-inflating projects. One interesting point to notice in today's verse is that God is watching leaders and holds them accountable for the attitudes and values they have—or don't have.

LEADERSHIP STEP: Your Step today is to once again revise or develop your leadership values, especially regarding how you relate to others.. First, determine what kind of leader you will be, preferably before you start leading anything. Then explain in 2-3 sentences how that value will be expressed as you lead. Then put those values in order of priority and attach a Bible passage that epitomizes that value. Finally, review those values regularly to hold yourself accountable.