Question#1: Do you consider Abraham to be a great leader?
To answer this question, we need to identify the common attributes that all great leaders possess. The list includes respect, compassion, vision, influence, integrity, courage, and resilience. While this list may vary depending on who you ask, we can all agree that Abraham had these qualities and more. However, what set Abraham apart was his unwavering faith in God, which cannot be found as an attribute of great leaders in any leadership class or website today.
In Genesis 12, we learn that God invited Abraham to embark on a journey with Him, which would lead him to his ultimate destiny. God promised Abraham that He would transform him into a great nation, bless him, make his name renowned, and use him to bless all the people on earth.
Abraham embarked on his journey with only a promise in hand. He did not have any prior knowledge of his destination, the duration of his travel, or what his life would be like upon reaching there. Despite the uncertainty, he took a leap of faith and stepped out.
Questions #2 & #3: Are things any different now than in Abraham’s time? If we stepped out in faith and trusted God as Abraham did, would we have the fortitude and determination to maintain that trust to get us through the good and the bad times?
In my humble opinion, the answer to both questions would be no. Although the circumstances of the times have changed, things are still the same. But unlike Abraham, most people, including Christians, would sadly allow their emotions to overwhelm them at some point. Instead of moving closer to God and focusing on Him, we tend to think of ways to regain control of the situation and put our faith in our abilities rather than God’s.
Question #4: What is the right way?
Open yourself up to God and pray to him when anxious or insecure. Have faith and trust in God’s answers, as they will bring glory to him. Just like Abraham, who followed God’s lead faithfully and reaped the benefits of his will, you too can journey with God and reap the rewards of following Him.
Following God 100% may sound easy, but it goes against our sinful human nature. However, God understands this and will never give up on His creation. No matter what circumstances you find yourself in, He will always be there for you. God is patient and wants the best for His children. It is only through Him that you can experience the best.