Leaders Don't Apply. They're Applied.

While there is nothing inherently wrong with applying for a position (especially a position of leadership), we must realize that it is God who ultimately appoints people to his service (not limited to positions of leadership). We read in the Scriptures that Abraham was chosen by God to become a great nation (Gen 12:1-2). Moses was established by God as the man to bring this great nation out of Egypt (Exod 3:10). And while Nehemiah applied, asking King Atexerxes to send him to Judah in order that he may rebuild the capital of this great nation, in the final analysis, it was God who designated him for the job. “The good hand of [his] God was upon [him]” to move him like a pawn and to do all that “God had put into [his] heart to do for Jerusalem” (Neh 2:6, 12).

There are more examples of this. 1 Chronicles 15 gives us an account of a worship band put together by the king (who himself was taken from the pasture and appointed shepherd over God’s people Israel). Chenaniah was appointed to be the band director because he understood music (15:22). And let’s not forget that other band of twelve disciples that were chosen by King Jesus (Luke 6:13). I could go on and on. 

The principle here is that in the end leaders don’t apply. They are applied. Like an ointment, God applies his people as he wills into the hurting places of the world in order that healing may come. This is the norm in Scripture. And this is how people become who or what they are–God applies them. 

God selects spiritual people for spiritual purposes and they are promoted to greater responsibilities. I’ve seen this in my own life. I was once single, promoted to husband of Chassidy, then promoted twice over to be father of Sophia and Josiah. As if that weren’t enough, from beginning at C3 as a member, then being appointed to elder, then children’s pastor, and now groups and education pastor, I have seen how it has been the Lord who has graciously applied me to different areas of ministry to be used for his glory. 

Right now, you may have a God-given desire to step into a position of leadership at work, in your community, or your church. Is it ok to apply for this task? Absolutely! But just remember, it is God who appoints (cf. Rom 13:1). Leaders don’t apply. They’re applied.