“A word well spoken is like apples of gold set against a silver background” (Proverbs 25:11 NKJV)
We all need a little wisdom from time to time, and the most reliable source of wisdom is God’s Word. The beauty of Biblical leadership is that it teaches people Biblical truth, helps them see through the lies of the enemy, and make spiritual breakthroughs.
Here are some more powerful benefits of Biblical instruction.
In the name of Jesus we unite
“Where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am with them” (Matthew 18:20).
Whenever I meet with women, whether online or in person, I begin by assuring them that Jesus is with us as we gather together in His name. I know that every problem, every struggle, every topic is left to the Lord, and He sees and hears. As Jesus said in John 14:13-14, “Whatever you ask in my name, it will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in my name, it will I do” (NKJV).
This kind of confidence is the key to helping people trust God in all things. A solid leadership program brings people together to fulfill God’s desire to seek Him with one heart and mind. Psalm 133:1 says, “How wonderful and joyful it is for God’s people to live together in unity!”
As we seek God’s will and ways, the Holy Spirit leads us to greater peace by reminding us of all that Jesus taught. (John 14:26) Life’s problems become more manageable when brothers and sisters carry each other’s burdens. This is the beauty of Biblical instruction in the holy name of Jesus.
it realizes God’s order of things
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).
Although it is tempting to live independently from others, we were never designed to live alone. Biblical instruction provides an opportunity to fulfill our God-given mission, develop each other’s faith, and provide encouragement along the way.
iBelieve contributor Christina Patterson shares her experience, saying, “[My mentor]earned my trust because she was open about sharing her strengths and weaknesses. No matter what questions I had or what advice I wanted, she always answered. She was a true friend, and she still does, who taught me the importance and importance of mentoring. She is a true example of older women inspiring younger women to godliness, just as we are taught to do in Titus 2:2-3.”
She cites a passage from Titus that says, “Older women…must behave in a godly manner…teaching what is right and good and encouraging young women to love their husbands and children tenderly.”
No matter how old (or young) you are, you have a purpose in the body of Christ. Biblical leadership is one way to fulfill God’s call on your life and walk collaboratively with others. As 1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Do not let anyone despise you because you are young, but set an example for believers in word, in deed, in love, faith, and purity.”
Paul’s encouragement to Timothy reminds us that God puts young and old together for a reason. Both have something to offer, and this is a beautiful representation of what Biblical instruction is all about.
it gives us clarity
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12 ESV).
Whenever believers open God’s Word, they can expect to find the answers they seek. The Bible is not just a book of information, it is a book of living transformation. Biblical instruction is based on God’s Word and puts the Bible at the center of everything that happens.
The advice of trusted leaders is always consistent with Scripture and represents God’s will over your own. Those who seek wise counsel will come to understand what is true, as Proverbs 18:15 states: “The heart of a discerning person acquires knowledge, and the ears of a wise person pursue it.”
Ultimately, the beauty of Biblical guidance is the clarity it brings to difficult situations. What may have seemed impossible to those in need of guidance becomes possible through God’s wisdom and insight.
As the psalmist said, “Lord, teach me your statutes, that I may obey them to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your laws and obey them wholeheartedly. Lead me in the path of your commandments, in which I will be glad. Set my heart on your statutes and not on self-interest” (Psalm 119:33-36).
If you are considering Biblical instruction, consider the following:
• A good leader listens and allows you to share what’s on your mind without interruption.
• They always point to God and His Word and align everything with the Bible.
• They do not claim to have all the answers, but instead provide ongoing guidance through sincere prayer, Biblical wisdom, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
If you need wisdom for your journey, I highly encourage you to seek guidance from the Bible. Many churches offer free programs to help people deal with difficult issues. I hope you will consider this as your next step. May God bless you as you gather together in the name of Jesus, gaining clarity for the days ahead and receiving the blessings of Biblical guidance as God intended.
Pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for your faithful leaders who are committed to leading others in your direction. Help me to accept wise counsel and resist the temptation to take matters into my own hands. Please let me know the exact leader you envision, someone who will listen well, pray with me, and provide insight from the Bible. And if I end up mentoring others, give me the right words at the right time. Thank you for leading me to your truth. In the name of Jesus, I give everything to you.
Additional resources for Bible instruction:
Are you feeling discouraged in your faith and life?
The power of Christian leadership
10 ways to be a mentor when you don’t have much free time
Photo credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/fstop123
Jennifer Waddle is the author of several books, including Prayer WORRIER: Turning Every Worry into Powerful Prayer, and a regular contributor to LifeWay, Crosswalk, Abide, and Christians Care International. Jennifer’s online ministry is EncouragementMama.com, where you can find her books and subscribe to her weekly post, “Disappointment Can’t Win.” She lives with her family near her favorite place on earth, the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
