I have had it in my head and heart to start writing on Christ-centered servant leadership. Not because I am some sort of model of the aforementioned, because I am most definitely not. However, I have been gifted with a sound communication skill set, a passion to research and pursue Christ-centered servant leadership, and a desire to share my findings with people about whom I care, and that might share the same goal as I to positively impact our communities through better leadership. Today's post begins that journey.
Come with great power, O God, and rescue me! Defend me with your might. Listen to my prayer, O God. Pay attention to my plea. For strangers are attacking me; violent people are trying to kill me. They care nothing for God.
Psalms 54:1-3 (NLT)
My dear friend and pastor, Jonathan Wiggins at Rez.Church, sent this Psalm in his leadership note this morning. I thought it was perfect for the time that many leaders might find themselves in just a week removed from the election. While no one has sought to kill me (I don’t think, anyway), I have been on the receiving end of attacks and vitriol just for stating and advocating for what I believe.
Leadership is not for the meek. It’s best to serve boldly. If you’ve ever spent sleepless nights praying over decisions that could impact thousands—or even just one—then you understand the weight King David felt when he cried out these words in Psalm 54. He wasn’t whispering a quiet prayer of thanks or contemplation. No, he was begging God to come with power and rescue him. He was desperate, embattled, and clinging to his faith when the world around him seemed hell-bent on destruction.
Sound familiar?
Today’s America feels more divided than ever. Our institutions—schools, churches, even government bodies—seem to be under relentless attack, not just from the outside, but from within. Our values are mocked, our beliefs maligned, and our freedoms jeopardized. It’s easy to feel like David, cornered by strangers and besieged by those who have no regard for God.
But as conservative leaders, we cannot afford to be passive. Our communities look to us for hope, strength, and direction. The challenges we face require more than just political savvy; they demand a humble dependence on God’s mighty power and a steadfast commitment to the principles that have guided our nation since its founding.
The Reality We Face
There’s no sugarcoating it: the cultural and political landscape is hostile – especially for common-sense, principled leaders. We live in a world where traditional values are labeled outdated or regressive. Many of us have faced criticism and even threats for standing up for Judeo-Christian principles, religious freedom, or the sanctity of marriage. Like David, we may even know what it feels like to be surrounded by people who “care nothing for God.”
Perhaps you’ve experienced the frustration of advocating for parental rights in education, only to be branded an extremist. Or maybe you’ve tried to uphold the dignity of every human life, only to be shouted down by those who celebrate abortion. It’s exhausting, disheartening work. The weight of leadership and advocating for what you believe can feel unbearable, especially when the opposition is loud, well-funded, and relentless.
But here’s the thing: God has not abandoned us. He never has, and He never will.
Faith as the Foundation
David’s plea in Psalm 54 reminds us that our power doesn’t come from campaign donations, political endorsements, or media influence. Our strength comes from God alone. It’s His power that sustains us, His wisdom that guides us, and His defense that keeps us moving forward when we’re outmatched and overwhelmed.
In moments of frustration and doubt, remember this: David wasn’t some mythical king untouched by hardship. He was a real man facing real threats from those who wanted to kill him. Yet, in his desperation, he trusted God to deliver him. If David could find strength in God’s promises while facing armies, surely we can find hope when dealing with policy debates and cultural upheavals.
Our faith is not a fallback plan; it’s the foundation of everything we do. When we advocate for policies that protect religious liberty, defend the unborn, or preserve the family, we’re not just pushing a political agenda. We’re upholding God-given truths that have stood the test of time. We fight not just because it’s our duty as Americans, but because it’s our calling as believers.
Courage with Conviction
Being a conservative leader in 2024 requires both courage and conviction. We cannot afford to be lukewarm or easily swayed. The opposition is strong, and the stakes are high. But this is where our faith must shine brightest. We are not just fighting a cultural battle; we are engaged in a spiritual one.
Remember that Jesus Himself warned us, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). When critics call you intolerant, when activists try to silence you, when the media twists your words—stand firm. Take heart. God is still on His throne.
Leading with Prayer and Purpose
Psalm 54 doesn’t just call for deliverance; it models a leader’s dependence on prayer. David wasn’t too proud to ask for God’s help. He knew that true leadership means acknowledging our limits and inviting God’s strength into our work. As conservative leaders, we must do the same.
Let’s lead our families, our communities, and our nation with the humility to seek God’s guidance in all we do. Let’s pray for wisdom, not just for ourselves but for our fellow leaders. Let’s ask God to expose falsehoods and strengthen truth-tellers. Let’s rely on His power, not our own, and stay grounded in the faith that sustains us.
A Call to Action
Psalm 54 is more than an ancient prayer; it’s a call to every conservative leader today. Our battles may look different from David’s, but the need for God’s intervention is the same. So, as we step into our roles—whether as local advocates, community leaders, state policymakers, or national voices—let’s do so with prayerful hearts and unwavering resolve.
America needs leaders who care deeply about God. America needs leaders who will not be intimidated by the noise and chaos. Most importantly, America needs leaders who are willing to cry out, “Come with great power, O God, and rescue us!”
Let’s be those leaders.
I would be honored if you would share this post with other principled, conservative leaders. If you have thoughts you would like to share, please do so in the space below.
Scott,
This is perfect timing. There was a “win”, but with that win will come ever more attacks on conservative leaders.
Thanks for the pick me up, this morning.