those who must give account… Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you. Scripture also warns to be careful with how God’s servants are to be treated—past and present. Second Kings 2:23-24 records a sobering example involving Elisha: Then he went up from there to Bethel; and as he was go - ing up the road, some youths came from the city and mocked him…So he turned around and pronounced a curse on them in the name of the Lord. And two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths. This was not harmless joking. It was serious, persistent disrespect toward God’s servant. Scripture re - cords this to teach that dishonoring God’s appointed leaders is no light matter. In Ecclesiastes 10:20 God warns against dishonorable thought: Do not curse the king, even in your thoughts.
God doesn’t even want His people to think negatively about His or - dained leadership! Holding Up Their Hands No man is an island. Everyone ap - preciates a little help and support— especially leadership. Here are practical ways to help “hold up the hands” of leaders: • Identify the leaders God has placed in your life. • Pray for them regularly (1 Tim- othy 2:1–3). • Speak respectfully—both pri - vately and publicly. • Offer practical help. Ask, “What can I do to help?” • Remain loyal during hardship. • Encourage and affirm them. • Follow with a willing heart— as long as they are “following Christ.” When leaders walk with God and God’s people support them, God can work powerfully through His Church.
In the Kingdom of God there will be no room for criticism of leadership, all will joyfully support God’s gov - ernment. His people must be living that way now. Christians should be different from the violent dissen - tious society that surrounds them. God wants His people to bring or - der, not chaos. Honor, not rebellion. Support, not resistance. The real lesson of Exodus 17 is not just about Moses. It is for peo - ple alive today (see I Cor. 10:11) Christ’s followers should be like Aaron and Hur—faithfully hold- ing up the hands of those He has placed in leadership. Not armchair quarterbacking their decisions from the sidelines. God is watching. He is testing His followers now, so He can determine who will be fit to lead and be led in His Kingdom. Strive to be found faithful, humble, respectful, and supportive. Hold up the hands! The Body of Christ is strengthened, and unified. God’s Work moves forward, and He is pleased.
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