Reflection

“Here I will increase the power of David; my anointed one will be a light for my people. I will clothe his enemies with shame, but he will be a glorious king.” Psalm 132:17-18, NLT

Although the author of the Psalm is unknown, it certainly seems to be a song sung by generations of Pilgrims to Jerusalem to honour David, the great renaissance leader and King. What is the relevance of this honour for a leader who lived thousands of years ago? How does it relate to you and me? The author moves from an honouring of David to an almost prophetic tone. Could it be that the author is speaking prophetically to ALL leaders?

Over the past few years, as has been the case since time immemorial, leaders have risen, and leaders have been vanquished for one reason or another. Now, I certainly pass no judgment on those leaders. This Psalm reminds leaders (and to some extent, all of us are leaders) that it is God who increases a leader’s power, authority and influence. I must admit, like many leaders, I have been guilty of attempting to gain increased authority and influence through my own strength, intellect and sometimes even, dare I say, scheming. How sad it is when I think of all the times I have attempted self-promotion, shamelessly attempting to force the doors of opportunity open for no other reason than my self-advancement.

Ultimately, the author of the Psalm reminds us of the true role of a leader when he talks about David being ‘a light for (God’s) people’ (NLT). It’s never about US as leaders and our selfish ambition. It is always about us being a light to others. Indeed, a timely reminder about God’s view on who a leader really is.

Prayer

Dear Lord God, thank you for the reminder that I am meant to be a light to others. Thank you for reminding me that it is you who promotes and increases my power, authority and influence. Forgive me for the times when I have striven to attain success through my pitiful attempts at self-promotion. You promote, Oh God, and how comforting it is that it is YOU who does precisely that. Lord, I pray for those leaders who for some reason are now not in a position of leadership due to some circumstance. I pray for their restoration, healing of their heart and soul and for those who have been damaged and hurt due to their actions. Let every leader – including myself – be reminded that as a leader, we are meant to be a light to all people.