One story that really touched me and I saw a preview of Jesus’ gospel parable of the workers found in Matthew 20 in the leadership of David.

“When David came to the two hundred men who were too exhausted to follow David, who had also been left at the brook Besor, and they went out to meet David and to meet the people who were with him, then David approached the people and greeted them. 22 Then all the wicked and worthless men among those who went with David said, “Because they did not go with us, we will not give them any of the spoil that we have recovered, except to every man his wife and his children, that they may lead them away and depart.” 23 Then David said, “You must not do so, my brothers, with what the Lord has given us, who has kept us and delivered into our hand the band that came against us. 24 And who will listen to you in this matter? For as his share is who goes down to the battle, so shall his share be who stays by the baggage; they shall share alike.” 25 So it has been from that day forward, that he made it a statute and an ordinance for Israel to this day.” -1 Samuel 30:21-25

It is clear whose side inspiration stands on in this story, “all the wicked and worthless men”…it was the wicked and worthless that did not want to share. I love what David points out so clearly in verse 23…the Lord gave you the victory and the blessings, you have no right to be possessive of these blessings or these rewards and think you get to decide who gets what.

It is a temptation for people serving in ministry to become possessive of their ministries and of receiving “credit.” I have also seen churches hesitant to share the leadership, the authority with “new” people because they haven’t put in the time/money/stress.  When we find ourselves leaning this way let us remember whom inspiration states responds in such a manner to God’s blessings, “all the wicked and worthless.”