News reports frequently inform us about fallen leaders—political, business, and religious. We grieve especially when leaders who profess to follow Christ fail so miserably. Some wonder if God’s purposes will be thwarted because of such failures. While no one can be excused for failing to lead with integrity, we can be encouraged to know that God is not surprised and neither will his purposes fail. An example of how God uses seeming failure to accomplish His purpose comes from the events surrounding the death of His Son, Jesus. A kangaroo court led to His unjust death, but that only paved the way for His resurrection and God’s offer to grant eternal salvation to all who believe in Him. Even Judas’ betrayal that reduced 12 apostles to 11 was restored by the actions of the apostles. God’s promised ancient Israel to give them 12 witnesses to represent the 12 tribes. We read in Acts CH 1 that when the 11 apostles chose Matthias to replace Judas, their actions fulfilled God’s ancient promise. Still today, failing leaders, though disgraceful, will not stop the purposes of God.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
