Psalm 23:1-2 - He leads me beside quiet waters

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

The imagery of God's leadership contains green pastures and quiet waters. Even if those pastures are located in the shadow of the valley of death, true leadership can give peace even in overwhelming circumstances.

It is the job of the shepherd to encourage - or instill courage - into the sheep to go down paths that seem treacherous.

Unlike the cattle driver, the shepherd leads from the front, going before his flock to assure them that they can make it. This is the type of leadership that inspires people and even empowers them to go places they would not go to on their own.

Today's commentary by:
Dave Whitehead, Senior Pastor, Grace NYC

Luke 6:39-40 - Can a blind man lead a blind man?

He also told them this parable: "Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher."

And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch? The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.

There is a recent trend toward leadership coaching that is healthy. The old concepts of "sink or swim" in leadership has caused many blind people to lead others into pits that could have been avoided if seasoned, wiser voices were involved.

To find someone who has traveled farther down the road of life is not only admirable, but also necessary if one wants to excel in leadership.

The view from the bottom of a pit is a cumbersome and painful way to learn the lessons of life.

Today's commentary by:
Dave Whitehead, Senior Pastor, Grace NYC