Thursday, March 31

In today's reading, we find godly instruction through Moses on the desired characteristics for a future king over Israel. Notably, Moses urges that this king should not be "above the law," but rather that he should cling to the Law and keep its contents at the forefront of his mind.

God dictates several other key criteria for this future king. First, he indicates that the king should only come from among the Israelites. We may imagine that this command emanated from God's concern for the Israelites' safety and protection, as a foreign-born king might retain alliances to his native land. Looking deeper, however, we may perceive that his lack of connection to God's law would prevent him from upholding and establishing God's law through His people.

In addition, Moses explained that the king should be free from the spiritual distractions of too much gold and silver and too many wives. These factors would cause him to become unfocused on God's law and His people, and instead to become overwhelmed by worldly pleasures.

For us, we often struggle under others' authority, bristling at their faulty leadership and direction. In our vision, we imagine that everything might be better if we had more authority or power. When we think of that scenario, we may consider the blessings of "freedom" that come from power, but we may forget the responsibilities, such as those presented here. We could easily become led astray by seeking power to its own end, forgetting to serve God first and foremost.

If we are in leadership or in follower-ship, it appears that we may remain on the right path if we live out Jesus's commands to take up our cross. This self-negating lifestyle puts the Kingdom first, others' concerns second, and ours third. How may we exhibit these priorities today? What impact would it have on our schedule? Our wallet?

God really demonstrated his amazing love by calling for this example of godly leadership. As we have opportunity, may we bless others by serving according to this standard, pointing to our loving Father.

Lord God, thank You for giving us an example of godly leadership in Moses and through these commands for your people Israel. As we follow others' leadership, help us to honor You and to serve well. As we have leadership opportunities, give us the courage to put Your concerns first, others' second, and ours third. Keep us from distraction by worldly pleasures and ego boosts. To You be all praise, honor, and glory forever! In Jesus's Name, amen.