Rising to the occasion

Over the past two decades there has been more discussion and momentum in the subject of leadership than ever before in the history of humanity. I believe this to be due to a shortfall of leaders, especially in the Christian church. Dr. Raymond Culpepper, quoting from Leonard Sweets book, said that leaders are those who rise to the occasion when circumstances arise. He went on to illustrate how today in America the circumstances are calling for such people who will rise up and build the church of Jesus Christ.

As we look throughout the scriptures we find this to be the case with about every leader in the Bible. They became, not through rank or position, but by rising to the occasion when the circumstances called for them. Nehemiah, when building up the walls of Israel, challenged the people saying “let us rise up and build”. I submit to you today this same challenge; Let us become leaders, rising to the occasion, to build up the church for the Kingdom of God.