Friday, June 11, 2010

Spear-throwing Narcissism



I was reminded today just how dangerous it is to become self-absorbed, especially as a leader. When a leader becomes self-absorbed and narcissistic he begins to see everything that happens through the lens of egotism and that is an extremely volatile world view.

It is God that places us in positions of leadership. Romans 13:1 states  that everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. If that's true, then any position we have is God-given and He determines how long we will keep it. It is not ours to defend! David understood this, Saul did not. When Saul felt that his position was threatened, he reacted by throwing spears! David on the other hand, when he saw a threat to his throne, reminded himself that the throne wasn't his, it belongs to God! 

We have to choose: Will I be a Saul or a David? We've got to quit throwing spears at those we think may be trying to take our throne! Let God decide how long you will hold the position of authority you've been given. I know there are times when it looks like people are plotting against us and we think that political maneuvering might result in us being unseated. Do we really believe people have that kind of power? Do we really think God is helpless against the plans of man? Give me a break! If that were my view of God I wouldn't even bother with Him! God is bigger than people, politics or positions. So I've decided to let God be God. It is His prerogative to give positions and take them away. I want to humbly lead when He chooses and humbly get out of the way when He's done with me. Anything less is just narcissistic spear-throwing! 

6 comments:

  1. Incredible insight Pastor Jeff!

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  2. Jeff, let God be God, and quit trying to help Him out!

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  3. You have NO IDEA how bad I needed to read that. THANK YOU for that gentle reminder. I may have to bookmark it and come back to it often. Sounds like you experienced some spear-dodgeing. I quess it's all a part of the ministry.

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  4. Wow... Very needed on my part. Thanks Pastor Jeff!! :)

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  5. This is sooo good Pastor Jeff!

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  6. I'm just gonna have to print this out, cuz I just keep coming back to remind myself of this awesome truth!

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