In the history of the Bible, true men of faith have been willing to lay down their life before God. I am thinking specifically of Stephen in the New Testament. My mom used to tell us the story of his great faith and unwavering love for God's Son. He was unafraid to declare it to his friends and those who were hostile towards the Christians of that day. He ultimately lay ed down his life for His Savior when the people were relentless in their criticism and violence. They picked up stones and threw them at him until he was so badly bruised and beaten that he died. It says in scripture that his soul went immediately up to Heaven. He is spoken very highly of in the history of Christian saints. He is the epitome of Christian boldness . His fearless approach to obedience is amazing.

Making the first move...someone must make the first move, someone must be willing to lay down his life and be willing to do what must be done. Is there possibly something that God is wanting me to do? In every movement in the Bible, no matter how big or small, someone was willing to go first. Isn't the essence of spiritual leadership someone who is willing to follow God first and closest? Sometimes, I feel as if I am a small child who is afraid to walk through a dark hallway. I remember saying to my bigger brother: "You go first. No, you go first!" and so on. (ps...big bro, if you are reading this, I usually went first!!!)

This past weekend, while at Spring Hill with the High school kids, the speaker was giving an example of playing the game of basketball. He was big and gawky for his age and pretty much uncoordinated as well. Chosen for the 7th grade bball team basically for his size alone, he was content to sit on the bench during the games...you know? less pressure, but still part of the team. By his 9th grade year, he was getting dressed for the first game of the season & noticed the board where the names of the starters were written. He saw his name last on the list. He was blown away in disbelief and went and asked the coach what in the world he was thinking! The coach simply stated: "You're starting. It is up to you whether you get your head in the game and actually play and contribute to the team. I see immense potential in you."

This simple story really struck me. Many times I show up, but don't actually get my butt off the sidelines & PLAY! Stephen was NOT a "sideliner" He was in the game! Am I in the game? Am I leading others to Jesus? Are You? Am I a contributer to the team? Am I leading and willing to follow God first and closest so others can see Jesus in me? hmmm...just some random thoughts of mine. What do you think?