“When they bring you before the leaders and authorities, do not become anxious about how or what you should speak in your defense, or what you should say; for the Holy Spirit will in that very hour teach you what you ought to say.” Luke 12:11-12

As a leader, a man will often find himself needing to communicate to another person, group or even his own family. It may be a presentation, job interview, resolution of a conflict or a family matter. The two authorities (God’s Word and the Holy Spirit) in the life of a Christian man should give promise and foundation for these leadership decisions.

Our verse today is applicable for every situation, whether we are interacting with other leaders above us, our family members or just another person or group. This is a verse to claim and pray back to the Lord before you enter the presence of the situation or person. It contains a promise and will give you courage to speak out and do what is right. It shows your dependence on God and what He wants you to say and do. I never speak before any group or meet with an individual or group about an important issue without first claiming this verse and praying it back to the Lord in advance. Leaders often endure criticism when they are courageous and decisive. Criticism can be a part of active, strong leadership.

John Bisango, former pastor of Houston FBC, said, “If you want to avoid criticism as a leader, do three things: do nothing, be nothing and say nothing.” Look at the example of Jesus and follow it as the words in our verse in Luke this week are His words. He was criticized for “being something, doing something and saying something.” He is our role model to follow. As leaders in our homes, work, church and community, we must claim God’s Word and the presence of the Holy Spirit to be an active and effective leader who makes godly decisions and spiritual impact. Too many leaders today have become passive, wimpy and lack the courage to do the right thing because of what other people might think. As our pastor at Central has often reminded, are we living for the applause of man or the approval of our Savior? Only you can answer that question, but the consequences and rewards are poles apart and impact eternity.