Honor Your Leaders

Several years ago, I was leading a mission trip from our church in Mexico. One morning our team divided into groups and went with other believers from the church to serve elderly widows in the community. Our group was tasked with cleaning up the property and painting the house of an elderly woman raising her grandchildren. 

The pastor of the church came with us to make introductions, and to get us situated with our supplies and assignment. He then left to do the same thing for the other groups. Before he left, though, he made sure that one of the men from the church was equipped to lead after he left. 

At one point, we were painting and weren’t sure if they wanted us to paint in and around the bars covering her windows. The brother from the church in charge told us to go ahead and reach through the bars to paint around the window. 

I remember thinking that this was not a good idea as I thought we’d end up getting paint on the bars and said something to my wife about it. She immediately reminded me of Hebrews 13:17 and asked if I shouldn't have more confidence in the leader and submit to what he thought was best.

I realize the stakes in this story are very low—just paint on some bars—but the principle of submission remains. 

Why didn’t I want to do it his way? As I wrestled with this question, I find myself answering a more fundamental one. “Why should I submit to my leader?”

The Lord spoke clearly and immediately to my heart. Who am I to tell him how to do the job? What do I know about and what experience do I have painting houses in Mexico? I’m going to be gone in a few days but this man will continue on. And, in the end, how hypocritical is it to say “I’m here to serve” and then refuse when asked to do so? This was not an issue of paint on some bars but an issue of submission. 

Hebrews 13:17 instructs us to do everything our leader asks*. We do this because our leader—whether it be a team leader or host—is somehow accountable on a level that we aren’t. In some way, we owe our leaders submission. Additionally, we want to be a blessing and not a burden. This is not only better for our leader but also better for us. I think you’ll find that, when you’re a blessing to your host, you will get to experience the country and the culture in a special way you would not have otherwise. 

Pray and Journal—Take a few moments to pray about this idea of submission. Ask God to reveal areas of stubbornness and pride. Memorize Hebrews 13:17 as a reminder to do everything you’re asked.

*It’s okay to be stretched beyond your comfort zone but you should immediately tell a leader if you feel you’ve been asked to do something compromising or unsafe.