Lonely at the Top - Martin Wiles

They began to speak against God and Moses. “Why have you brought us out of Egypt to die here in the wilderness?” they complained. Numbers 21:5 NLT

I was wrong. It was lonely at the top.

No one ever said leading was easy or popular. I had been chosen as the leader of a local organization. Assuming the position required moving almost three hours away. Since my wife and I felt the Lord calling us there, we went. Things went well initially, until . . .

With the help of a few key leaders, we made some changes that would take the entity to new heights by making it more competitive and attractive. And it worked. More people joined—people who would serve it well into the next generation.

Then it happened. Grumbling. Complaining. The majority enjoyed the new growth and opportunities. Others remained but continually grumbled and complained. A few left. It got lonely at the top.

Moses knew how lonely the top could be. The job God offered him seemed attractive, yet scary. Who wouldn’t want to lead millions of people? However, soon after he took the position, the grumbling and complaining began. They didn’t like the route he took them down. Or the food he fed them. Or what he gave them to drink. On at least one occasion, they plotted to kill him.

Despite his loneliness, Moses demonstrated the traits of a good leader. He was patient. The stubbornness of the people would have driven even the best man to drink, but not Moses. He focused on where he knew God wanted him to take the people, even when it entailed traveling in an unpleasant direction. He knew God’s way was always better. When they complained, he continued to lead.

Moses was also compassionate. He knew their rebellion would bring God’s discipline—and it did in the form of poisonous snakes—but he interceded on their behalf to God when they repented. Moses loved the people even when they were unlovable.

When God calls you to lead, do it with focus, compassion, obedience, and patience.

Prayer: Father, thank You for the privilege of leading.

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