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12/31/2021 0 Comments Finding Stasis
King Belshazzar was not a strong leader for many reasons. First, he failed to learn from his father’s mistakes. King Nebuchadnezzar was greatly humbled by God for his arrogance. Belshazzar, rather than learn humility, snubbed his nose at God. Second, he was completely inept. On the night Daniel pronounced God’s judgment against him, Darius the Mede attacked and overthrew Babylon with a coalition of Medes and Persians. Why was Belshazzar partying when his kingdom was threatened? Third, he was drunk—hardly the mark of a wise statesman.
We can learn sometimes as much or more about leadership from weak leaders. As the year 2021 closes, this would be a great time to reflect on the subject of balance. A year of upheaval is the perfect backdrop for evaluating equilibrium. Why? Because strong leaders find stasis regardless of the circumstances around them. And they are able to do this for at least three compelling reasons. First, they fear God and therefore value humility. Humility is the pathway to success because it means dependence upon God, sober self-evaluation, the ability to learn, and capability in working with others. Second, they are competent. They are aware of their surroundings, in tune with what threatens them and others, and wise in the manner in which they use time and resources. When the storm is on the horizon, you won’t find them attending outdoor carnivals. Third they don’t allow themselves to be out of control—ever. They maintain discipline, good order and sound thinking. They live according to their convictions. They know that Solomon was right when he wrote, “Wine is a mocker, beer is a brawler, and whoever staggers because of them is not wise” (Proverbs 20:1). The prophet Daniel modeled all three of these qualities. He was the barometer of balance. What a pity that Belshazzar did not value his leadership, was unaware of his gifting and evidently of the amazing record Daniel amassed as God’s primary sage to pagan kings. Are you balanced? Finding stasis is critically important. As the world becomes increasingly unstable, be like Daniel and make a difference. Something to think about . . . in reveration. Inspiration There is no decision that we can make that doesn't come with some sort of balance or sacrifice.—Simon Sinek ©2021 Daniel York ARR. Reveration is the weekly devotional ministry of First Cause. If you would like to receive these devotionals go to www.firstcause.org and click on the “Click here to receive weekly devotionals” box. Unlimited permission to copy this devotional without altering text or profiteering is allowed subject to inclusion of this copyright notice. Ecclesiastes 12:10-The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and to accurately write words of truth. (Holman CSB)
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