A Faithful Ambassador
(Prov 26:6 GNB) If you let a fool deliver a message, you might as well cut off your own feet; you are asking for trouble.
This morning we continue our series entitled, “Unlocking the Power of Proverbs – Walking in the Wisdom of God.” In Solomon’s day, a king had to rely on messengers to get information out about his kingdom. He did not have television, radio, the Internet, Facebook, Twitter, Google +, or any of the modern media vehicles through which to disseminate information. Solomon didn’t even have a telephone with which to speak directly with foreign heads of state. I know this may seem archaic to us today, but Solomon actually had to use messengers to get his strategic message out and to serve as negotiators for his kingdom. Obviously, the reliance upon these messengers made the selection of them vitally important. These men had to be absolutely trustworthy. Inaccurate information could lead to bloodshed. If a messenger allowed his emotions to get the best of him, while negotiating with a foreign head of state, the results could be disastrous for both nations. Solomon needed to know that when he sent a messenger out with a message that the messenger would both reliably relay the message and responsibly represent the spirit in which it was sent. Sending a fool to do a job this important would be like shooting yourself in the foot; a self-inflicted wound. The fool could cause irreparable damage and the king would have no one to blame, but himself, for sending a fool to represent his best interests.
Back in chapter 13 Solomon said, “A wicked messenger falls into mischief: but a faithful ambassador is health.” The word ambassador is fitting. An ambassador is sent to represent his parent nation within a host nation. When communication is sent from the parent nation, the ambassador is to communicate that information, no matter how pleasant or objectionable it might be. The ambassador cannot allow his personal opinion to disrupt or dilute the message of the parent nation. The ambassador understands that he represents his leader and his host nation so his words, actions, and deeds must be nothing less than exceptional.
So what does this mean to you today?
1. When you are the one picking a representative: Never select a person to represent you (or your organization) that is not completely capable of the task. Giving a person more responsibility than he/she is able to handle can be disastrous for them, you, and your organization. And the worst part is that it will be a self-inflicted wound.
2. When you are the representative (in the marketplace): Leaders are always looking for reliable people they can trust to represent their organization in dealings with external organizations. Leaders need to know that you will be faithful to relay the message you are asked to relay and to represent the character and spirit of your organization. If you prove yourself trustworthy, you will be asked to do more and God will be able to use you in greater ways. Remember, God did not save you from a burning hell just so you can sing songs on Sundays. He wants you to grow where you have been planted – at work!
3. When you are the representative (in the ministry): From a ministry perspective, you are actually called an “Ambassador for Christ” (2nd Cor 5:20). The Father needs to know that you can be trusted to share His goodness everywhere He blesses your feet to tread. Once God knows you can be trusted, He will setup divine appointments for you. Are you ready to represent God today? Can He trust you to relay His message? If so, get ready for divine appointments!
Closing Confession: Father, I declare, by faith, that I will represent both You and my secular leadership in a trustworthy fashion today and every day. I prove myself to be reliable and responsible. I share what I am expected to share and I refuse to allow my emotions or personal opinions to detract, dilute, or disrespect the spirit of the message I am asked to communicate. I am not a messenger who causes trouble or shame. I am an ambassador who well represents those who send me and in-so-doing, I also bring glory and honor to Your name. Open up doors for me Father, and I will walk through them with the confidence of knowing that You are on me, in me, with, and for me; and also with the reality of knowing that I am on divine assignment. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
This is Today’s Word! Apply it and Prosper!
