Don't Shoot the Messenger!

"May the LORD take note of you and judge," they said to them, "because you have made us reek in front of Pharaoh and his officials — putting a sword in their hand to kill us!" - Exodus 5:21

Have you ever heard the saying, "Don't shoot the messenger?"

After Moses went to see the king of Egypt, Pharoah added to the burden which was already on the backs of the Israelites. The Israelite leaders weren't very pleased with this new development and blamed Moses and Aaron for upsetting the status quo (even though "status quo" was a life of slavery). Perhaps it was just easier to blame the prophets rather than the king (or themselves).

If you happen to be a leader, there will be times when your actions may bring injury to those who follow. If you have made a mistake in leadership, then you should not be too proud to admit it, but if your actions were taken in response to obedience to God then you have nothing for which to apologize.

To the leaders, I say, "Remain humble, look to God for your strength, affirm your position in Him, and be assured that God is using you to accomplish His purposes."

To the followers, I say, "Don't shoot the messenger!"

Leadership demands that we make tough choices. - Alan Autry