July 26

Jul 26 - Today from Proverbs 26 we look at verse 10
"Like an archer who wounds at random is he who hires a fool or any passer-by."

Once again we are in that section of Proverbs collected specifically for direction for leaders (the king and his staff). They have special application to those who hold, or are aspiring to hold positions of authority, responsibility and influence.
It is interesting to note that the subject of this proverb is not the fool, but the person who might hire a fool into a position of responsibility -- the archer. It is the task of the archer to recognize targets and choose the proper instruments for successfully hitting the targets. If he shoots an arrow quite at random and the arrow finds its way into the flesh of a comrade, the commander does not blame the arrow! The archer will be held responsible – and ultimately the commander who enlisted and trained him.
Now you can begin to understand the extreme importance for leaders to properly select team members and staff personnel. The person chosen must understand the target (purpose of the position), must be able to reach the target (properly qualified), must be able to make needed adjustments in the battle (teachable), must stay on the target which the commander chose (submissive), and must continue the campaign as if the lives of comrades were at stake (faithful). When choosing a candidate for a very specific position; A person can be a very good friend -- but that is not reason enough to choose him. A person can be a very sincere person -- but that is not reason enough to hire him. A person can be very in need of employment and income -- but that is not enough reason to put him on the payroll. A person can be very persuasive in talking the talk -- but that is not enough reason to entrust him with your reputation. A person can be a decorated 'marksman' -- but that is not enough reason to risk the lives of others in your command.
Leaders need to have the capability to see the big picture and to know how each 'archer' must function in order to win the day. He needs to properly choose archers who understand their purpose, who are properly qualified, who are teachable, who are submissive (do not undermine authority), and who are faithful. The archers needn't necessarily know the big picture, but they certainly need to understand their particular area of responsibility and to trust the directives of their leader.
There are two lessons contained in this proverb. For leaders the lesson is to be very careful in selecting personnel who will be entrusted with your reputation. Do they understand what is required of them? Are they qualified to accomplish their task? Will they readily take instruction? Do they understand and submit to authority? Will they stand by you and do their job no matter what? Remember, you will be held responsible for their performance.
For personnel, the questions are the same. Do you understand what is required of you? Are you qualified to accomplish your task? Do you readily receive instruction? Do you respect and submit to proper authority? Will you stand by your leader and do your very best, no matter what? His reputation depends on you. You are have committed yourself to his area of responsibility.
One final thought. Do you know that Jesus is willing to entrust you with His reputation? He is the Lord and King, and he is constantly looking for faithful disciples who hold the attributes of what it takes to be a productive archer. Look the questions over once more, only now with the thought of serving the Lord Jesus. How about it -- should He entrust you with a position of being His disciple? Might you be in danger of wounding some comrades because you failed to follow His directives? What changes might be necessary for you to be entrusted with His responsibilities?
"Love one another, just as I have loved you." (John 13:34). Sobering, isn't it?