Calling For A Lead Man or Woman For A New Year by Stephen Bly
On the old cattle drives, the choice position was to get assigned the lead man. Or ride point. This meant the cowboy got to be at the forward tip of the moving herd. He had fresh air to breathe. He didn’t have to ride with his bandanna over his mouth and nose to cut down the dust. From time to time he got to look around and enjoy the scenery.
But it was a position of responsibility too.
He had to constantly determine the exact direction to take. Spot trouble before he came to it. Locate the river crossings, the next water stop, where to bed for the night. Turn the herd when it started to stampede.
The Chosen Cowboy
Only the most seasoned cowhand was selected to be lead man. An enviable position. But weighted with duty.
The Lord still looks for those who can do a good job riding lead. He needs leaders to chart a biblical course for others to follow. An honored position. But burdened with responsibility. He needs someone experienced and trustworthy, talented and courageous, knowledgeable and visionary to ride point.
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given us … if it is leadership, let him govern diligently” (Romans 12:6,7). Spiritual leadership is a position filled by the Lord. He watches all our daily screen tests.
God’s idea of a good lead person:
1.) Diligent.
2.) Industrious.
3.) Persistent.
4.) Hardworking.
5.) Studious.
6.) Unwavering.
7.) Inexhaustible.
8.) Unrelenting.
On the old cattle drives it didn’t take a trail boss long to find out whether a man had what it takes to ride lead. He soon replaced anyone who couldn’t measure up. Too much at stake to risk it all on the lazy, unreliable or inexperienced.
Wherever or whatever your position right now, determine to dig in, to get to work. And don’t forget to smell the flowers, to enjoy the scenery.
Award-winning western author Stephen Bly (1944-2011)
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Are you ready to ride lead? What is your score from 1-8? Where are you the weakest? Strongest? Are you willing for the Lord to use you where He wants you, even if you drag dusty places?
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