The early church experienced some growing pains as described in Acts 6. The Greek speaking group complained that their widows were not receiving a daily distribution of food. The twelve Apostles gathered everyone together for the first church council and they discussed the situation. They showed true leadership by admitting the issue had caused them to neglect their main focus of prayer and the Word of God so they agreed to appoint seven (The first Deacons) to take on the food distribution responsibility.
There are priorities we all have to set and for many, this is the toughest decision to make but if we set priorities and delegate certain responsibilities, then we have a greater chance of success. The strategy worked for the Apostles as the word of God spread and the number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly (v. 7).
As a community grows, it is important to stay focused on the main strength that has contributed to the growth. Rather than try to control everything, the Apostles decided to stick to their strength which was prayer and to the Word of God. They delegated the other responsibilities to capable leaders in their group who were full of the Spirit and wisdom.
Many today look at leadership as a popularity contest; the person who speaks well, the funniest, or the most likable but leadership is really not about these attributes. It’s more about having a vision for the future. It’s about carrying out this vision daily; getting everyone on the same page and following the path in order to get to the desired destination.
The mission of the first church was to make disciples of all nations and their growth depended on the power of the Holy Spirit. This day with You Lord, we are thankful for this chance to pray. When we pray, we know we are talking to the ONE with all the answers. Our vision and help comes from You Lord. You put us up on Your shoulders so we can see better and You carry us along the path. Our weaknesses are made strong up on Your shoulders. Help us to maintain our focus and know what our priorities are so we can best glorify Your name today. Amen!
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