The Art of Leadership
Jesus said, “Blessed is the merciful: for he shall obtain mercy.” A wise leader knows that he may need mercy himself one day. That is why a true leader is merciful to others.
“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” (Matthew 5:7)
Are You Spiritual?
This Scripture says that people who are spiritual must be careful to be merciful. Have you caught a thief today? Please show mercy! I know that you find it difficult to appreciate the circumstances under which you could be accused of being a thief one day. Have you been treated badly by those you helped? The tendency to repay them evil for evil will arise when the occasion presents itself. But show mercy! You will be amazed at how you will need to be shown mercy, by someone, in very difficult and unpredictable circumstances.
“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1)
I am not predicting that any leader will fall. All I am saying is that it is wise to be merciful rather than judgemental. Mercy triumphs over judgement. Surely you will need the mercy of God in your life. God looks at how much mercy you show to others. The blessing of merciful people is that they will also receive mercy. The Bible says that “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7). You will, of necessity, need mercy one day. How do you prepare for such a day? Show mercy whenever you have opportunity!
Years ago, I met a pastor who was so judgemental about Kenneth Hagin. He spoke at length and described the faults of Kenneth Hagin to me. He then gave me a book full of criticisms about Kenneth Hagin. As this pastor spoke, I marvelled at the critical spirit he possessed. Some years later, this critical pastor divorced his wife and lost his ministry. The next I heard of him, he was in prison. There is no need to be judgemental. A leader is a humble person who also knows that he is capable of falling one day. Are you a leader? Be merciful; you may need it one day.
Five Times Jesus Showed Mercy
Jesus showed mercy to the crowd for crucifying Him on the cross. “Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.” (Luke 23:34)
Jesus had the power and the supernatural ability to harm them for the wrong done Him. But He rather showed them mercy and forgave them.
- Jesus showed mercy to the woman who was caught in adultery. You may be amazed by the response of Jesus. Once again, He showed mercy instead of judgement. “She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.” (John 8:11)
- Jesus showed mercy to blind Bartimaeus and healed him. It is amazing that Bartimaeus did not ask for Jesus to heal him. He just asked for mercy. Mercy came with healing! May your mercy bring healing to someone!
“And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me. And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.” (Mark 10:47-48)
- Jesus showed mercy to the mad man of Gadara. Only the mercy of God could reverse the situation the mad man was in. It shows the power and effects of mercy. Show mercy and watch the results that come from it. “And He did not let him, but He said to him, Go home to your people and report to them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He had mercy on you.” Mark 5:19 (NASB)
- Jesus showed mercy by teaching forgiveness to fellow servants. This is a lesson we all need to learn. As I forgive, so I am forgiven! As I show mercy so do I attract mercy!
“Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave, even as I had mercy on you?” Matthew 18:33 (NASB)
A leader is someone who knows the importance of showing mercy. And a leader shows mercy to others. Can you imagine what a life we would have if we could all be merciful? It would change so many things in our lives and relationships. Think about this if you are a leader. Show mercy! We will continue to pray for all leaders that mercy will come forth from them.
theaol@ymail.com
By Dag Heward-Mills