Leadership: Who needs it?!

So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart,
And guided them with his skillful hands.
Psalm 78:72

Psalm 78 is speaking of King David who ruled God's people with integrity and guided them with skill.  As I read this verse, I was moved to pray for the leaders of my country, state, city, neighborhood,  church, workplace, and for my husband as well. 

I grew up without much appreciation for authority.  I am fiercely independent (having grown up as an only child who didn't need to negotiate with siblings) and don't usually enjoy having anyone tell me what to do.  The older I get, the more I see the importance of leadership.  I notice how poor leadership, or a lack of it, effects everyone.  I'm aware that when I am under good leadership and submit myself to it, I benefit (the team benefits/ goals are met and bonds are strengthened/ much is accomplished).  I'm starting to really respect those in authority, especially those who lead with skill and integrity.  I'm beginning, finally, to understand what it means to live in community, and to enjoy it!  Being of a rather melancholy temperament by nature, liking people, and liking working together with them just hasn't automatically been something I've desired.  I'm really changing and growing in that department.  I am becoming more of a team-player in mid-life (well, better late than never).  This fact motivates me to pray for those who are placed in positions over me, and not to take them for granted. 

Lord, give us godly rulers who have integrity, shepherd's hearts, and skillful hands.  So much rises and falls on leadership.  Teach us to do good to our leaders and submit to them.  Let them keep watch over our souls with joy and not with grief (Hebrews 13:17).  Thank you for our Great Shepherd and Leader who equips us to do His will, working in us to please Him (Hebrews 13:20-21).

But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work (I Thess. 5:12)