Aug
10
A Horrible Irony
John Danganan
"An appaling and horrible thing has happened in the land. The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule on their own authority; And my people love it so! But what will you do at the end of it? - Jeremiah 5:30-31
There's corruption and wickedness in the land when there's corruption and wickedness in leadership. Prophets are to prophesy God's truth and priests are to rule in God's authority. It is an appalling and horrible irony for God’s truth speakers to speak falsely and God’s rulers to rule in their own authority. Everyone suffers when there’s corrupt leadership—society, government, churches, families, even the land physically suffers. Compounding the irony is that the “people love it so” when there are prophets and priests not following the Lord.
Being entrusted with the gospel, God has counted me faithful. I cannot shy away from the very thing that God has called me to do—speak the truth with grace and lead with God’s authority. The calling is clear but difficult. Speak the truth about God, preach the gospel and teach the whole counsel of God’s word. Lead with God’s authority despite of my lack of life experience as a young pastor. Stand on God’s authority in discipleship and counseling to correct, discipline, rebuke and shepherd with grace. Be very cautious when, “the people love it so” and there’s no difficulty and suffering in ministry.
Heavenly Father,
I feel so inadequate for such a high calling. I don’t feel worthy to speak and lead on your behalf but may I be who you called me to be NOT what others expect me to be. Help me to be strong and courageous in you. Please grant me wisdom to know when to speak the truth and when to be silent, know when to be firm and when to compromise. Holy Spirit fill me! Please continue to be my good shepherd and lead me. As I follow you help me to lead my wife, family and your church. Maranatha! Amen.
