JESUS – EASY, RELAXED LEADERSHIP

We often focus, quite rightly, on the words of Jesus when we read the gospels. His words were (and are) life to all who will hear. But we can also learn from the way He interacted with His disciples.

For example…

In John 11:7, a few days after learning that His friend Lazarus was sick, Jesus says to His disciples: “Let us go to Judea again.” This comes across not so much a command as an invitation. It’s obviously more than a suggestion because we can see that going to Judea was His firm intention. But His leadership here is exercised in an easy, relaxed manner.

Genuine authority does not have to be exercised harshly or condescendingly , as one vastly superior speaking to ones vastly in-ferior. Jesus led by relationship, with warmth and respect.

In v8 it’s worth noting that the disciples felt comfortable enough with Jesus that they could question His wisdom. “Lord, are you sure about this? The people down there tried to kill you not so long ago!”

How many times, in our walk with the Lord, do we feel that His leading doesn’t make sense? We question His wisdom and look for excuses to disobey. Are you absolutely sure, God?

Does Jesus get upset when His disciples question His wisdom? Not at all. Rather than rebuking them for asking questions, He simply explains enough to give them assurance that He knows what He is doing.

Martha does a similar thing in v39 when Jesus commands that the stone be rolled away from Lazarus’ tomb. “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.” Again, Jesus simply calms her fears and reaffirms His command.

There are many other examples of this in the gospels. And I confess that I’m no better than these earliest disciples. I have often questioned God about what I felt He was saying to me. But, without fail, He gently reaffirms what He wants from me.

We can learn a great deal from Jesus and His easy, relaxed leadership style. He is not offended when we check (and double-check) His leading in our lives. He invites us to go with Him into exciting (sometimes frightening) new situations.”