Leading by example

Don’t do as I do, do as I say.

I’m very glad I never heard those words from my parents. 

If ever there were a hypocritical phrase, that’s it.  And coming from leaders, it’s inexcusable.

David, on the other hand, led by example. 

In this passage, he led by his generosity.  He was so excited about building this temple for God, that he contributed gold, silver, and other precious stones from his own treasury. 

Then, he challenged the other leaders of the nation, saying,

Now, who is willing to consecrate himself today to the Lord?  (1 Chronicles 29:5)

In other words, “I’ve given myself and my things to the Lord.  How about you?”

And the leaders responded, giving generously to the building of the temple.

What was the result?

The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord.  (9)

You’ve got to believe that the confidence the people had in their leaders soared with the actions of their leaders. 

Why?  Because they didn’t just tell people what to do.  They didn’t just tell people to serve God.  They actually practiced what they preached.

I don’t know about you, but that’s the kind of leader I want to follow. And be.

How about you?  Do you lead by example? 

Can you tell your children, “Do as I do?” 

Can you tell the people you lead in your office or in your church, “Do as I do?” 

Or would you have to look away in embarrassment if you were to say it?

Let us not just be people that lead by our words, but by our example.