When I was younger, growing up on a farm in the country, one of the things I liked to do was play in the woods. It was either playing war with some friends or hunting or exploring, finding new places and imagining that we had to survive off the land and the things we could gather. (Only a country boy would understand) Even when I got a little older and my likes changed more to motorcycles and four wheelers, I still liked to get out in the woods and blaze some new trails and explore new areas. The only bad thing about these times, and one of the things that stands out the most, was that the person that lead the way always took the brunt of what was coming. He usually got a face full of spider web, and then came the feeling that the spider was crawling all over. Also any briars etc would get him first and thus he would clear the way for those that came behind. This was usually a point of argument to see who would be the one to go first.
This same phenomena can be seem when it comes to leadership and leading people into new uncharted territory. The one who is out front is the one who has to take the yucky “spider webs” and briars to the face. Often, it is not a pleasant position to have, but if you are going to accomplish things that others have not, and take people there with you, then that is the reality, not that is your calling. It is called leadership and while it has it’s difficulties and challenges it definitely has it’s rewards. So what are some things that can help us continue in spite of the difficulties?
1. Keep your Destination in Mind
When a marathon runner feels the pain of his fatigued muscles and his mind is telling him to quite, it is the finish line that keeps him going.
The difficulties of the moment can easily distract and discourage us but we must look beyond those things to where we are headed.
2. Think of the Rewards
The Bible says that men run in a race to receive a prize or crown that is corruptible but our prize or crown is incorruptible.
At the end of our race the finish line brings a much greater reward than a trophy or medal. It is the hear those words, “Well done thou good and faithful servant”.
3. Realise that God has Equipped Us
It is in those difficult times that we think we can’t go on or the fear that we are not capable of leading the way. It is in these moments that we should trust in the providence and guidance of the Lord.
He has promised that he will not lead us into anything that He will not give us the capacity to overcome and accomplish.
So the next time you are called or have the opportunity to take the lead, don’t let fear get in your way. Step out and trust God and see where He will lead you.