Prov 8:16 [ESV] by me princes rule, and nobles, all who govern justly
We had such an array of different leaders in the children’s homes I was brought up through. Some were laid back, would listen, take time for one-on-one conversations and seemed genuinely interested in their role. Others were by-the-book, impersonal, unapproachable, stern, and judgemental.
As a young person in an institution you are already vulnerable (although you may not have ever said that at the time – as you thought you were strong, smart, and indestructible).
When I reflect on those experiences I notice that I would respond to the leadership style in kind. So to the laid back, listening, personal leader I would be laid back, open, and reachable. Whereas to the policy-driven, jobs-worth, all rules and boundaries – I would rebel, trample over their impositions, and rage against their micro-management.
The second approach got me into constant trouble, and there was a living tension between myself and these leaders. Their lack of care for me exasperated my already damaged self-worth and sensitivity to rejection. But as a young boy, there seemed no real way for me to understand this, rather I would simply react to the environment, without thought or care for consequences.
How we lead ourselves, and how we lead others is a key skill, worthy of investment, reflection, and upskilling at every opportunity – you may help define someone’s future.
KNOWLEDGE
The Gospel takes hold of us! Once we receive it, we are forever called to go deeper, to allow it to pervade every area of our mind, our body, our emotions and our spirit. The Gospel governs our outlook, our plans, our dreams, and our daily actions – what we do, and what we no longer do. We are under its authority day and night, and are willing subjects.
UNDERSTANDING
Let’s pick one word from this verse to look closer at and see if that can help us gain a deeper insight into how God would love us to live?
The word used for “govern” is pronounced as “sapat” in Hebrew, and carries the meaning of “to judge; defend; decide; vindicate,” also “to execute judgement”.
In the LXX the Greek is “κρατούσ” [kratous] amd is translated as “take hold”. It’s used forty-seven times in the New Testament, meaning “to take hold” which can be to take hold by the hand, or to seize into captivity.
WISDOM
Where can I develop a more generous spirit today?
STRENGTHS THOUGHT: The Gallup Strength of Command brings inspiration and leadership, don’t intentionally overshadow others who can contribute.
Allan’s Unauthorised Version – by me the princes of the provinces govern, and willing, generous officials and nobles, all who judge, defend, and vindicate with righteousness according to God’s standard.
by me princes –by me the princes of the provinces
rule, – govern,
and nobles, – and willing, generous, officials and nobles,
all who govern – all who judge, defend, and vindicate
justly – with righteousness, according to God’s standard.
PRAYER: Father, thank you for today. Help me to take my own responsibilities of protection and generosity seriously.
To chat to me as a professional coach/mentor – allan@theallankey.com
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