Connect with Your Followers

Mark Schultz sings, "Even when it feels like the light is fading and I've lost my way, still I'm holding onto the One Who's making all things possible! Even when it feels like my heart is breaking, hold on. There is strength, knowing I belong to the One Who's making all things possible! My God is strong and mighty! My God is faithful! My hope is in the Lord, for He is able!" These lyrics remind us of God's presence and power in our lives. We must remember to trust in Him, follow Him, and let Him guide us!

The central Scripture for tonight is Exodus 19:3-6, which says, "Then Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain and said, 'This is what you are to say to the house of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: "You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself. Now if you obey Me fully and keep My covenant, then out of all nations you will be My treasured possession. Although the whole earth is Mine, you will be for Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.'" (NIV)

Maxwell says, "Leaders touch a heart before they ask for a hand." God presented His message to His people, in the following order. He described His love for them. Then He told of the victories He won for them. Then He spoke about their future as He had it planned. (Maxwell) The Father touched the hearts of His children before setting forth His requirements. Similarly, leaders should connect with their followers before asking anything of them. God is the best example we can follow! Psalm 18:30 tells us, "As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him." (NIV)

Tonight's reflection question asks, "How do you connect to your people?" I was honestly unable to come up with an answer for this. That question should not be that difficult to answer. Such a situation tells me that I may not have been connecting to my followers very well. For those of us who find ourselves in that predicament, we can ask God to help us better connect with our followers. We must show them that we care about them. We cannot distance ourselves from our teams and expect to be successful. However, with God's guidance, such situations can be corrected. We should look to Him for guidance and follow His direction.

God bless you!