New Creation Realities

Pastor Munashe

23 October 2024

HAVE RESPECT FOR LEADERS

(Honour All Spiritual Authority)

📖 “He allowed no one to oppress them, and He rebuked kings fortheir sakes, saying, ‘Do not touch My anointed ones, and do not harm My prophets.’” (Psalm 105:14-15 NASB)

In Numbers 12:1–16, the Bible tells the story of Aaron and Miriam talking behind Moses’ back because of his Cushite wife. They started questioning his authority and said that God could speak through them too, not just Moses. But God heard what they said and called all three of them– Moses, Aaron, and Miriam—to the Tabernacle. God showed up in a pillar of cloud and set the record straight, rebuking Aaron and Miriam. He made it clear that Moses had a unique role as His chosen servant. Unlike other prophets who only heard from God through visions and dreams, Moses had the privilege of speaking to God face-to-face (Exodus 33:11). God asked Aaron and Miriam how they dared to speak against the one He had specifically chosen.

Here’s what I want you to notice as a consequence of their error: the Bible says, “...the anger of the LORD was kindled against them; and he departed” (Numbers12:9). He got angry and “walked away!” But here’s the thing: when the presence of God leaves like that, trouble comes. The instant God’s presence left them, Miriam’s skin turned white with leprosy! (Numbers 12:11). There are many people who don’t realise this is what happens to them when they get unruly, create insurrection, become disobedient, and dishonour authority in the house of God. They don’t even know when the presence of God leaves. It also brings to mind the story of Samson. The Lord was always with him, until he disobeyed. When the enemy came, Samson woke up thinking, “...’I will do as before; I’ll just shake myself free.’ But he didn’t realize that the Lord had left him” (Judges 16:20 TLB). The Spirit of God didn’t come on him as He used to, and the enemies got a hold of him and gouged out his eyes.

It’s important to honour the Lord always, follow His Word and His ways, and never dishonour spiritual authority as Aaron and Miriam did. Don’t speak against or judge God’s ministers. Remember what the Bible says: “Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand” (Romans 14:4). Hallelujah!

PRAY

Dear Father, thank you for my leaders and those you’ve placed in positions of authority over me to nurture, train, and bring me up in the path of truth and righteousness. I willingly yield to the guidance and direction they provide by the Spirit. Your nature of love and humility of Christ are manifest in and through me always, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.