March 17th

Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9

Moses continued giving instructions before Israel’s invasion of the Promised Land. He covered several important topics, such as organizing a justice system, the inheritance of the Levites, abstaining from the demonic activities of Canaan, cities of refuge, laws of landmarks and warfare, and, finally, how to deal with mysterious murders.

Also in Moses’ message, there were included two prophecies. First, Moses mentioned a day in Israel’s future when it would be led by kings; he alluded to prideful sins kings should not do (which will be done by future kings of Israel, namely Solomon). Second, Moses foreshadowed the coming of a great Prophet whom God would raise up from among the people, a prophet in whose mouth would be the very words of God. Of course, this prophecy is about Christ, who, in the New Testament, is linked to Moses’ description (Luke 7:16; Acts 3:22).

As I considered today’s passage, I was tempted to follow several leads; but the verses that challenged me most were those related to kings and their knowledge of the Scriptures. “When he sits on the throne as king,” God said, “he must copy these laws on a scroll for himself in the presence of the Levitical priests. He must always keep this copy of the law with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of the law. This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way...” (17:18-20).

It is clear that God expects leaders to know His Word, so that they might fear Him, follow His instructions, and influence others to do likewise. In a sense, everyone is a leader. Leadership is influence, and everyone has influence; therefore, everyone is a leader. Each of us influences or leads in some way, positively or negatively. We lead our families, our churches, our workplaces, and our relationships with friends.

Whatever the case, here is the formula for successful leadership: read and know the Scriptures, fear the Lord, and influence others
to do likewise. Years ago, I discovered this to be one of God’s purposes for my life. I was challenged by the example of Ezra, the High Priest, who “set his heart to study the law of the Lord, to practice it, and to teach it among the people” (7:10). Christ-centered influence and life-changing leadership begin with God’s Word. Read it, know it, and live it. Others will take notice and follow your lead.

Daily Reflection

Who are some of the people or groups whom you lead or influence? List them here.

You have influence. How do you wish to use it?

BiAY.org | Day 76 — 289 Days to Go