Thursday, May 2, 2013

Wise Leadership

Ecclesiastes 9:18 - "Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good."

The peaceniks love this verse, stating how many of our past leaders have not shown wisdom but have instead resorted to "weapons of war." Abraham Lincoln deplored the conflict he was immersed in, but knew there was no other recourse to stem the tide of unrest than through the civil war which engulfed the nation. Woodrow Wilson sought to keep America from conflict in 1917, yet evil would not rest through its relentless provocation. Consternation still rages whether Harry Truman's decision to use atomic weapons was prudent to end World War II. And, lately President Bush is and will be the subject of debate whether the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were necessary.

However, I believe Solomon is getting at something deeper and greater than just the decision of government leaders regarding the toll of human mortality. What about the toll of human despair brought on by a man not governing his family? What is the cost of a man not humbling himself before God and acquiring wisdom to lead those in his charge? The casualties are much greater than all wars combined, beloved. As men, we need to rise up and collectively humble ourselves on behalf of those with whom we are entrusted. In so doing, we ensure future generations the opportunity to live in peace and security. While wars and crimes against humanity are inevitable in our sinful, fallen state, they can certainly be minimized through widespread revival in our respective homes. May we all acquire God's wisdom to do accordingly.

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