Lead With Humble Boldness
“[D]o not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:20)
God’s Warning to Good Workers
When Jesus’ disciples came back from their ministry, they were astounded by their ability to perform miracles and cast out demons. They said “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.”
Then, Jesus replied, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”
Notice that instead of Jesus giving them a “good job”, He knew what was in their hearts. He pointed the attention back to Himself as the source of this great power.
Then, He gives them the warning: do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you.
The fact that Jesus mentions this should make every minister pay attention.
The Poison of Good Works
It’s easy for people in ministry—especially those with special gifts—to find satisfaction in their performance or effectiveness. But God knows the common effect of good works in our hearts. He knows that we can take pride in our influence, power, productivity, praiseworthiness, the list goes on.
And this is where I find God has given us the secret to leading with humble boldness.
You see if you are faithful and effective, yes, you might become famous, you will likely prosper, and be praised. These aren’t evil things. But to Jesus, these aren’t impressive. It is His work, not yours. So our joy best comes from the fact that we are saved, and our reward is great in heaven.
You see if you are faithful and effective, yes, you might become famous, you will likely prosper, and be praised. These aren’t evil things. But to Jesus, these aren’t impressive. It is His work, not yours. So our joy best comes from the fact that we are saved, and our reward is great in heaven.
Often in our ministry, especially for those serving in the praise and worship team, we can rejoice in things like
everything going smoothly as planned,
perfectly singing every note,
getting your own solo part,
speaking the most eloquent exhortation,
or leading the congregation to tears.
But just take a moment now to ponder this truth: Jesus Himself says that to the believer, these things don’t compare to the most wonderful gift of all: that your name is written in heaven.
And you know, this truth should address both our failures and successes. Knowing our reward is in heaven should humble us in the midst of our achievements, and encourage us in our moments of weakness.
This great promise empowers us to be humble yet bold.
Promise Over Performance
Depending on where your heart stands, you might need to be more humble, or more bold.
This promise of security in heaven doesn’t mean we don’t have reason to serve anymore. In fact, Jesus still sends out workers to His harvest field this very day. So good works must be done.
But our confidence no longer comes from innate abilities or skills, for even God moved mightily through Moses who struggled with speech.
Instead, our confidence comes by faith in God’s clear promises for us in Jesus.
When our focus is on God’s promise, rather than our performance, only then will we begin to serve others through Christ-like love. Only then can we lead with humble boldness.
Reflection Questions
In your ministry, what are some specific things you tend to take pride in? Or if the opposite applies, what are you afraid or anxious about?
How can the truth that your name is written in heaven, change the way you approach ministry?
I pray God gives you both the humility and the boldness to serve others.
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We are vessels made to be occupied by one thing only. We can deny self and choose Christ, or deny Christ and choose self. It will always be one or the other.