Match up my words and actions

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Matthew 23:2-4
2"The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. 3So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. 4They tie up heavy loads and put them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.

Jesus tells His disciples and the crowds to obey those who are in authority over them. But even though He tells them to submit to their authority, He advises them not to do what those people do because their words and actions do not match up. I think in leadership, there is always that fine line between delegating and dictating.

While I was learning how to drive, my mom used to tell me to do as she says, not do as she does. I see that often in political campaigns, the things that the politicians say are in complete opposition to what they actually do. Being a leader in ministry, I am not exempt from this common mistake. This passage scares me. I do not want to be someone who’s words and actions do not match up. Jesus was a perfect example of how He lived out God’s word and He spoke God’s word. In fact, He is God’s Word. How do I reach this goal? How do I keep from crossing over the line of delegating into dictating? Moreover, this passage truly makes it plain to me that I can respect and submit to my leaders, but not have to be like them, because really, no one is perfect, and everyone can improve. Today, may I align my words with God’s Word and my actions with God’s actions. Also, may I consistently check the work load that I am delegating so that it is not something that I wouldn’t do myself.

Heavenly Father, please help me to apply this to my life. I thank You, Lord, for showing me Your way of living. Please forgive me for my sins. Lord, I know that I need to work on submission. Please give me a joyful spirit and fill me with Your strength. I love You, Father. Thank You for making me feel like a Princess. I thank You for my husband. I pray that You guide Him in every aspect of His thought and actions. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.