Hebrews 13

“Remember your leaders who have spoken God’s Word to you.  As you carefully observe the outcome of their lives, imitate their faith.  Jesus Christ [the Messiah] is the same yesterday, today and forever.”  Hebrews 13:7-8 (HCSB)

Reading today’s chapter, I am reminded of King David, whom the Lord called “…a man after God’s own heart.”  (1 Samuel 13:14)  

When I was young, the story of David confused me.  Sure, killing the Philistine was impressive.  David’s integrity in battle, sparing the life of evil King Saul, and his humility when the ark returned were all great stories of faith.  But his acts of adultery and murder were obvious no-no’s of the 10 Commandments.  So, exactly what is “a man after God’s own heart,” and what does that mean to us?

First, we know for certain that all people sin.

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”  Romans 3:23 (NKJV)

“There is none righteous, no, not one.” Romans 3:10 (NKJV)  

It has been said that the Church-at-large’s biggest obstacle is that it must recruit from the human race.  People sin.  That is why we need a Savior.

Although our goal and direction should be to honor the Lord, even followers of Jesus sin.  If we didn’t sin, how could Satan accuse us?  If there were no accusation, why would Jesus need to intercede for us?

“Who is the one who condemns?  Christ [Messiah] Jesus is the One who died, but even more, has been raised; He also is at the right hand of God and intercedes for us.” Romans 8:34 (HCSB)

So, what of our leaders?  Are they human?  Yes.  So, they sin?  Of course!  Just as in the case of David, we must carefully observe our leaders.  We must respect them because they have spoken God’s Word to us.  We must observe the outcome of their lives, and although no man is perfect, we must imitate their FAITH and not their sin.

We teach children to follow David’s faithful deeds and steer clear of his faithless ones.

While faithful men are the reflection of God’s glory, only Jesus was the embodiment of it.  We follow leaders in as much as they follow Messiah.