“But those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Men, doesn’t it feel amazing to refresh yourself after a long, sweaty job? That simple act of cleaning up puts a smile on your face and a spring in your step. It’s a reminder that being renewed is essential—physically, mentally, and spiritually.
When it comes to shepherding your family and leading as a servant of God, that same sense of renewal is key. We often dive into tasks with passion, ready to serve and fix what’s broken. But how often do we run out of steam because we’re running on our own strength instead of God’s?
Before any race, any project, or any act of service, we must first look to the One who gives us our vision and strength. Where is your “field goal”? Are you running toward God’s purpose, or are you scoring points for the wrong team?
A Fresh Vision Comes From God
God is the ultimate source of clarity, direction, and renewal. Oswald Chambers reminds us that God offers a “perennial, perpetual, and eternal freshness from the Holy Spirit”—but only if we are connected to Him. Jesus said, “I and the Father are one” (John 10:30), and that same oneness is what He desires for us.
To lead well, you must rely fully on God. Depend on Him wholly and daily. As John the Baptist said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). Emptying yourself of pride and self-reliance allows God to fill you with His fresh Spirit every day.
Jesus knew the “end game.” As He faced the cross, He endured because of the joy set before Him: the joy of completing the Father’s plan and redeeming His people (Hebrews 12:2). When we are born again (John 3:3), we are given this same vision—the end game of glorifying God and advancing His Kingdom. By renewing our minds daily (Romans 12:2), we align ourselves with God’s purpose and draw closer to Him.
The Daily Freshness Formula
As you steward your family, remember this simple truth: don’t put the cart before the horse. Seek daily renewal in God’s Word, His Spirit, and His presence. Only then can you lead your family with the strength and wisdom of Jesus.
Here’s a practical formula to remind you:
2x God (the Who and Gospel) → 1x me (the what and how).
First, place two times the time and energy into knowing God, and then into yourself.
Repeat…
2XGod then 1XMe
Are you seeking God first, or are you trying to “fix” things on your own?
Leadership that reflects Jesus starts with being refreshed by the Holy Spirit every day. Take up your cross (Luke 9:23), and shepherd your family toward God’s Kingdom with the “end in mind.”
Inspirational Reflection
Reflection Question:
How can you seek daily “freshness” from God so you can lead your family with clarity and purpose?
Suggested Answer:
• Start your day with God: Begin with prayer and read a passage from the Bible (Romans 12:2).
• Seek His guidance: Ask the Holy Spirit to renew your mind and guide your decisions.
• Follow Christ’s example: Remember Jesus’ endurance and focus on His joy in fulfilling God’s plan (Hebrews 12:2).
• Depend fully on God: Surrender your worries and rely on Him, not your own strength (John 3:30).
• Lead your family intentionally: Make choices that point your family toward God’s Kingdom with love and purpose.
This order helps you prioritize God first so you can lead your family effectively.
Keep it simple: stay close to God, and He will guide your steps.
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