Genesis 31:7 You know how hard I have worked for your father, but he has cheated me, changing my wages ten times. But God has not allowed him to do me any harm.
It would be very difficult to work under an insecure leader. Insecure bosses are normally canny and crafty. Insecure leaders think everything is about them, and as a result, every action, every piece of information, every decision is put through their filter of self-centeredness – John C Maxwell. Insecure leaders are unreliable and dangerous to themselves and to those who follow them. Their own insecurity would limit the talents and gifts of others. They are takers not givers and create an environment of insecurity and instability. An insecure leader causes more harm than good to his subordinates and contemporaries.
Even though insecurity is an offshoot of bad parenting, childhood trauma or a series of disappointments, insecurity is a learnt habit that must be unlearnt. A ruler with no understanding will oppress his people, but one who hates corruption will have a long life (Proverbs 28:16).
Jacob worked for an insecure leader for 20 long years. Jacob worked for Laban for the first 7 years to marry his second daughter Rachel but was cheated by Laban who gave his first daughter Leah in marriage at the end of the agreed term. Then Laban made Jacob work another 7 years for Rachel. In 20 years of service, Jacob’s wages were changed 10 times! Laban stole his increment, perquisite and bonus. Laban was a heathen but he confessed to Jacob, I have learned by divination that the LORD has blessed me because of you (Genesis 30:27). Laban was unfair but the God of Jacob fought for him; But God has not allowed him to do me any harm.
Three signs of Insecurity:
1. Egoistic: Insecure people are egoistic. They will never be able to appreciate or acknowledge the achievements of others. Their applause will not be genuine. Insecurity sprouts from the bitter roots of pride. Pride says, “no one can be better than me, especially those who work with and under me!’’ Genuine admiration of others is the weapon to defeat egotism.
2. Erratic: Insecure people are erratic. They are happy one minute and enraged the next. If you have to walk on eggshells with someone, they are extremely insecure and lack self-worth.
3. Eccentric: Insecure people are eccentric in their actions and reactions. They would be silent when they should speak but would react strangely when they should be observant. They would make promises that they don’t mean and say things that they will never do. Everything that insecure people say and do would be for their self-benefit and self-gratification.
Insecurity is dangerous and will destroy the person and damage those under their influence; however, God who protected Jacob from harm will protect us from damaging insecure leaders.
Proverbs 28:15 Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a helpless people.
Prayer: Dearest Lord Jesus, let there be no trace of insecurity in me. You are my security, my stronghold and my strength. Keep me away from unjust, egotist leaders and make me a selfless influencer. Amen.
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