Leadership Qualities: Discernment – Balaam Just Didn’t Get It (part 2 of 2)

Balaam said to the Angel of the Lord, “I have sinned, for I did not know You stood in the way against me…”
Numbers 22:34

No leader can enjoy success very long without developing a healthy sense of discernment. Lack of discernment nearly got Balaam killed. He did not discern the Lord’s presence. He even confessed his lack of discernment. God said the prophet would surely have been killed had it not been for his discerning donkey. When he finally realized his peril, Balaam had to feel both ashamed and embarrassed. It is one thing to lack discernment; it is another for your donkey to possess more than you do!

Unfortunately, many leaders today suffer exactly this plight. Many factors conspire to keep us from discerning the needs of the moment. Consider some common factors:

1. An unrelenting schedule leaves no room for listening.

2. An important agenda fosters a stubborn heart rather than a sensitive one.

3. A type-A temperament makes it difficult to slow down and discern.

4. A strong task orientation leaves little time for people or spontaneity.

5. We often desire to solve spiritual and emotional problems with external answers.

Do you want to hone your leadership skills? Then make it a priority to pray for greater discernment. Listen for and interpret the root causes of the challenges you face. Consider your gut reaction to others, but also tap your mind. Discernment takes both godly intuition and intellect.

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