Leading Behind Closed Doors

Scripture:

“The teams of security guards were from the family of Korah: Meshelemiah son of Kore (one of the sons of Asaph). Meshelemiah’s sons were Zechariah, the firstborn, followed by Jediael, Zebadiah, Jathniel, Elam, Jehohanan, and Eliehoenai—seven sons. Obed-Edom’s sons were Shemaiah, the firstborn, followed by Jehozabad, Joah, Sacar, Nethanel, Ammiel, Issachar, and Peullethai—God blessed him with eight sons. His son Shemaiah had sons who provided outstanding leadership in the family: Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad; his relatives Elihu and Semakiah were also exceptional. These all came from the line of Obed-Edom—all of them outstanding and strong. There were sixty-two of them.” 1 Chronicles 26:1-8 (MSG)

Perspective:

When we think of leaders, we think of people with charisma and authority. Many times, we associate people who are making a difference in the world with strong leadership skills. We see these pastors, leaders, governors, or presidents in the public eye, but many of their leadership skills were developed and honed behind closed doors.

When David was needing security guards for the gates, teams were selected from the family of Korah. Within this family, Shemaiah’s sons were recognized above the rest. Although we don’t know many details, we do know one game changer. Shemaiah’s sons were strong leaders in their family. Many times, we want to lead the masses. We want people to respect us and give us more influence. However, the greatest lesson that we can learn is leadership of ourselves and leadership at home. At home, people see us for who we are. It is difficult to hide your frustrations and joys from your spouse or children. But one of the keys to leading large is leading with your life when you are tired, you don’t feel like it, or you are having a bad day. We can lead in all different areas of our public life, but without being able to lead ourselves, we will undercut our potential for influence. What steps do you need to take to provide leadership to yourself or your family? Do you need to make some changes in your schedule to accommodate priorities? Do you need to have a conversation with your spouse or children to ask for forgiveness for your lack of leadership? In order for us to be outstanding on the front lines of our lives, we have to develop the skills to lead well behind closed doors.