My title for this devotion is Leading vs Following.

I am a leader. Least they tell me that. Maybe reluctant leader is a better description. It has taken me many years to come to that point. For so long I wanted to be seen as one, but I’m convinced leadership is not about a title or a position, but influence. For years, I thought I was “entitled” to be called a leader because of my title and position (Pastor).  I had to realize leadership is earned by wise choices and decisions and experience.

I also need to follow. That may take more humility than being a leader does. Therein lies my conundrum. I truly want to be a follower of Jesus. But there are times I am, or appear to be, totally lost. How do I know He is leading me in a certain direction?

“Though none go with me still I will follow.”

“Where He leads me I will follow.”

“I’ll go where you want me to go, dear Lord.”

Lyrics from song sung in church when I was a kid. But how do I know? I’ve not heard Him speak audibly to me. Don’t even think that happens today. But I also can’t say I’ve gotten clear direction from His Word either. And people? Well, you know how fickle and fallible people are.

Following is not so easy in several respects. From the humility standpoint. From the knowing standpoint. I guess the advice I got from a friend years ago when I was unsure which direction to go in is good: “Bill, choose one.  If it’s not wrong or sinful-even if if is not the best-God will not abandon you. He will walk through it with you.” That really is good advice. Advice I cling to when making a decision or following (blindly) seems to be the only alternative.

“Father, following is not easy, especially when the way is not so clear. but help me to trust You in all things. Lead me. Help me-give me wisdom-to know how and where to follow.”