RAISING UP SUCCESSORS
Jenna Worsham
Today's Scripture: “And David went out and was successful wherever Saul sent him, so that Saul set him over the men of war. And this was good in the sight of all the people and also in the sight of Saul's servants.” 1 Samuel 18:5, ESV
Theme: When our successors thrive, it is good that we help them to rise to their potential.
EXCELLENT LEADERS
Considering the leaders, bosses, captains, coaches, and mentors who have been most impactful in my life, one characteristic was common to each: a real desire for my ultimate good and growth, not their own self-interest. When we sense a benevolent motivation from our leaders, rather than a self-serving one, we are motivated and successful. Yet even when our earthly leaders fail us, as Saul eventually failed David in today’s Scripture, we can “work heartily, as for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23, ESV), the One who never fails to lead humbly and flawlessly.
HOLDING OTHERS UP
In some seasons of life, God has called me to quietly hold others up. Other times, I see how God has called other people to hold me up. My upcoming trip to South Africa wouldn’t be possible without support and confirmation from leadership, God, and a few key people in my life – all members of the Body of Christ. Mechelle and Carey, my current co-workers and friends (also writers of devotions), didn’t hesitate to encourage me and help me sort out the work details that may be more complicated for them in my absence. Another supporter is a South Africa team member, Clarissa, who made time in her already packed schedule to help me and personally encourage me as we prepare to go. The last is my spouse, Mike. While he could have been put out by the extra work that falls to him when I’m gone, he didn’t hesitate to support me. This includes managing school pick-up, meals, and rides to activities for our three kids for ten days, plus managing household chores. Usually, we share that load. He says: “In this season, my role is to provide resources and be the guy on the ground.”
SAUL STARTED OUT RIGHT
In this passage, we see how Saul initially led well. He gave David responsibility and increased his support when David was successful. Unfortunately, when all the people began to recognize and praise David, including Saul’s servants, Saul started to compare David’s success with his own. This happens to me, too! Sometimes I lament being in a season where I don’t have a regular full-time job. Yet it’s exactly that position that allows me the freedom to serve overseas this month. When I am tempted to compare what our family chooses with what another family has or does, it shows that I don’t appreciate or acknowledge God’s blessings in this season. I am reminded now to reset and be thankful! Before I compare or worry about relative success, I can choose to be thankful for those in front of me and behind me. I can pray for those who God is raising up to lead organizations, events, speak, teach, write books, and build businesses. Rather than resenting someone else’s success as Saul did, I can encourage and hold them up without any ulterior motives, just as others faithfully do for me.
Make It Personal: In what ways are you held up and supported by others in your life – especially members of the Body of Christ? How can we become people who support those coming up behind us, helping them to succeed without comparing and becoming resentful?
Pray: Dear God, thank You for the people who support and uplift me. Thank You for the opportunities I have to support and encourage others. Help me as I learn to lift those behind me, even if they surpass me in some way. I know that You are the ultimate provider of opportunities, resources, and affirmation. Without Your sacrifice on the cross, nothing I do could ever be enough. Your pleasure is enough for me. I don’t need to compare myself to anyone else. Help me remain focused and humble. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Read: 1 Samuel 18:1-7
Weekly Memory Verse: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” Hebrews 12:1-2, ESV