How do you make sure you hear God’s specific instructions to you? (104-5)

Burt Nanus wrote in Visionary Leadership, “Vision is central to leadership. It is the indispensable tool without which leadership is doomed to failure.” Read 2 Kings 6:8-17.

The king of Aram had pursued Elisha into Dothan, surrounding him with an army large enough to frighten Elisha’s servant. Elisha simply prayed that God would show the servant the true situation. Perspective separates leaders from followers more than any other characteristic. Leaders have to see things others don’t. Their vision must transcend the “what’s now” and enter into the “what’s next.” Seeing what’s next is part of what sets a person apart as a leader. A visionary leader can rise above the tyranny of the urgent and accomplish or focus on the really important.

Biblical leaders live with the conviction of a supernatural God. They believe God guides through prayer. They have an optimistic and realistic vision of what matters most. Biblical leaders aren’t waiting for some magical awakening; they don’t have an inside track on the future but the things to which they commit their organization’s resources will reflect belief in a sovereign God. Christian leaders know they are God’s stewards and realize that they are investing His resources.

Like Elisha and his servant, a Christian leader’s vision starts and finishes with the Reality behind the reality.

What is the vision God has given you? When was the last time you changed your strategy simply because of God’s leading? How do you make sure you hear God’s specific instructions to you?

Isaiah 50:7 Because the Sovereign LORD helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.