AUTHORITY TO ACT

Scripture: Acts 25:17-21

“Therefore, to him that knoweth to do good,
and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” James 4: 17 (KJV)

Leaders are usually held responsible for their actions and inactions. A failure to act when the situation calls for it is as bad as making the wrong call. Every leader must understand that the authority to act is a vote of confidence in them and an important tool to bring good to many.

When the spiritual leaders of Israel ganged up against Paul, Governor Festus, did not see any justification for the various allegations. He had the authority to release him but he stalled in taking action. Festus refused to act on his own conviction. Even when he knew the right thing to do, he held back. Today, many leaders are like Festus. They toy with the lives of others for a variety of reasons ranging from fear of criticism to a lack of will. They blame others for their failure to act. When you know what to do and fail to act, the scriptures call it sin (James 4:17). The mantle of leadership is an opportunity to affect lives for good. It requires timely, wise and decisive action.

If you are a leader, you must overcome lethargy and act as befits your call. Do not be intimated by situations. Pay attention to building your leadership competence. Develop your ability to adequately assess situations and make decisions. If you lead in any capacity, whether secular or spiritual, you cannot afford to function without God. Just as Joshua and Moses made God the hallmark of their leadership, you need his wisdom and strength to navigate the paths of leadership so you can act wisely.

REMEMBER TO ATTEND: Leadership/Communion Service tomorrow, 5:30PM.

PRAYER: Lord, give me grace to use my authority wisely in Jesus name.


FAITH BYTE: I exercise my authority wisely. With the wisdom of God, I take timely and decisive action for good.