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2 Samuel 8:15-18, David reigned over all Israel, doing what was just and right for all his people. Joab son of Zeruiah was over the army; Jehoshaphat son of Ahilud was recorder; Zadok son of Ahitub and Ahimelek son of Abiathar were priests; Seraiah was secretary; Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over the Kerethites and Pelethites; and David’s sons were priests.

David reigned fairly and competently over Israel.  Part of his success was his choice of leaders.  He chose people who were effective, had integrity, and sought to execute God’s justice and will. There was Joab, one of David’s nephews, who was in charge of the army, essentially executing justice against those who opposed the nation of Israel.  Jehoshaphat was the recorder, which means he chronicled all that went on with David’s administration, allowing future generations to see how they honored God.  Zadak and Ahimelek, as priests, were in charge of proper worship.  They were descendants of Aaron.  Seraiah, as secretary, would have assisted with the administration.  Benaiah, son of a priest and a military leader, oversaw the Kerethites and Pelethites, who essentially served as a private militia for the king.  Finally, David’s sons also served as priests.  This is somewhat strange, as priests must be from the line of Aaron.  Scholars think they may have served in a consultive role. 

Regardless, all of these leaders were trusted.  They were effective.  They cared about the will of God.  A nation, an organization, a church, etc. can only function well with good leaders.  Leadership matters.  We have all seen the results of poor leadership – things fall apart, the people scatter, the organization is damaged. 

The people who are charged with leading a church must be committed to the values of Jesus Christ.  In addition to the pastor, the leaders have they have the role of influencing and guiding the body, a huge responsibility!  Besides being competent, they must have integrity, they must care about the organization, and they must be mature in their walk with Jesus.  Leadership matters.

Please pray for the leaders of New Hope today.

Let’s pray…Almighty God, We pray for effective and Godly leaders for our church, our communities, and our nation.  We especially pray for our leaders at New Hope. Please give them wisdom, discernment, courage, and grace.  We also pray for a deeper bench of leaders.  Help us grow the next generation of leaders for your church.  In Your Name, Amen.