Leadership is hard.

Deep dive in Judges. Chapter 8: 1-3.

Gideon had just gone through a lot of anxiety and fear to obey God, and God blessed him in defeating the Midianites. Even though God did the work, Gideon wasn’t a slacker. He put himself out there even in fear and tried his best to follow God’s instruction.

He could now stand back, rejoice, and take a deep breath.

But nope – didn’t happen because the men next door started in on him. They were judgmental and critical of how he did the job – even though he was following God’s lead. They didn’t rejoice with him, try to encourage him, maybe feed him a good meal, pat him on the back, thank him, ask him how they could help support him and help him recuperate…..nope…they selfishly criticized him.

In fact, “they accused him fiercely” (verse 1)

The spirit of criticism was alive and well – even in the 12th century BC. Sometimes criticism comes from a jealous, insecure heart. Romans 12:15 tells us to “Rejoice with those who rejoice,” not beat them up because you can’t stand their success. Even in the Lord’s work.

Leadership is hard.