Bitter Water – Following Well

In a previous post, we looked at the responsibility on leadership for following God’s leading. For those that aren’t yet in a leadership position, or for those leaders who unfortunately haven’t learned this valuable principle of following, let’s learn from this same story.

Then Moses led the people of Israel away from the Red Sea, and they moved out into the desert of Shur. They traveled in this desert for three days without finding any water. When they came to the oasis of Marah, the water was too bitter to drink. So they called the place Marah (which means “bitter”). Then the people complained and turned against Moses. “What are we going to drink?” they demanded.
Exodus 15:22-24 (NLT)

Learn to trust the Lord as He directs those over you in the Lord. Complaining, grumbling, gossiping and spreading discord among those in the same position as you, is not the way to respond.

…Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you…
Philippians 2:12b-15a (NLT)

Anyone can be a complainer. It takes no integrity or character to join in with a grumbling crowd.

Here’s what you can do if you find yourself, like the children of Israel did, facing a bitter situation at the guidance of a God-appointed leader, who has a history of the sovereign hand of God at work on their behalf.

Remember what the Lord has already done

Recall to your mind the times this man or woman led you into victory, guided you through tumultuous times and even instances involving their leadership of others where it was clear that they were following the Lord’s guidance, and the proof was in the pudding!

Spread the word

If the person you are following has heard from the Lord in the past and you followed them into an unknown future and the result was clearly ordained by God… speak that out loud. Remind yourself and those complaining around you of the track record, and challenge hearts to trust, yet again.

Trust the Lord in them

If their leadership has proven character and walks in integrity, then trust the Lord in them. Their hearts are to lead you to a place of abundance and steadfastness. Trust me. If they are walking with the Lord, He will speak to their hearts and show them the way, just as He does with you.