Wise leaders keep their perspective. Problems, challenges, and opportunities can only be properly handled when viewed from a long term perspective. Solomon commenced the most magnificent building project in his nation’s history. But he did not do it in a vacuum. He led the effort based on centuries of God’s work in the life of his people. Solomon could never have achieved his spectacular success had it not been for what had gone before him.
Leaders are remiss to assume that God only begins working when they arrive on the scene. God has been at work for generations before us. He will be working long after we are gone. Hopefully our labor will mark a high point in the history of God’s work, but it will only be a point, not the whole.
Have you taken time to trace God’s earlier work in your midst? How far can you trace God’s hand in your ancestors? In your church? In your workplace? One of the great blessings and sources of encouragement is to know you are a part of a great, divine work that is much greater than you.