Profiles in Leadership: Jacob – Leaders Must Be Broken to Be Used

He said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for you have struggled with God, and with men, and have prevailed.” Genesis 32:28 Even naturally gifted leaders don’t always have it easy. Sometimes leaders gifted with tremendous abilities can have a very difficult time, especially with issues of character. That was true for Jacob. From the very beginning he wielded great influence. No matter where he went or what he did, he stirred things up. He captured the heart of his mother and the birthright of his brother. He had a similarly disruptive impact in the house of Laban. Over time, his leadership created great prosperity. And it was his sons who founded the 12 tribes of the Hebrew nation. Wealthy, strong, influential, and blessed with a large family, Jacob seemed to have everything. But a leader who goes his own way and seeks to benefit only himself cannot be an effective instrument in God’s hands. God had to break Jacob to make him useful. In the breaking process, Jacob the deceiver became Israel, a leader with who purposed to serve God rather than himself. Natural leaders often need to be broken. Consider your natural ability to lead a gift from God, and your character a gift you present back to God. Every time you stand up under the weight of adversity, you are being prepared to better serve God and lead people. Please comment below or email me directly at curtis.songer@gmail.com