When a Leader Loses His Way

Have you ever wondered how someone who once walked closely with God could end up so far off course?

Could it happen to you? Has it happened to you? It has with me …

I think it’s a question many have in their own mind and heart. And to be honest, we can be hard on leaders who seemed strong but fell. Let’s be real honest, we all have our own moments of drifting.

King Saul’s story is quite the opportunity to learn. He was anointed, chosen, and positioned to lead, but his heart strayed. He disobeyed God, refused correction, and eventually sought answers from darkness instead of from the Lord.

The Bible says plainly, “Saul died because he was not faithful to the Lord and did not obey the Lord. He even went to a medium and asked her for advice instead of asking the Lord” (1 Chronicles 10:13 NCV).

His story is quite sad, not because of a single failure, but because of his refusal to turn back.

We all mess up. We sin, stumble, and sometimes stay too long in the wrong direction. What’s interesting is to study the sins of King Saul and King David.

David also sinned, but when he was confronted, he broke. He didn’t blame. He didn’t deflect. He repented with a humble heart and turned back to God.

Honestly, that’s what God is looking for. He’s not looking for perfection, but a heart that comes home. Those in leadership or spiritual influence are still human. Just like you and me.

We all can lose our way. But we don't have to stay there.

The door back to God is always open through humility, confession, and a willingness to surrender again. There is hope for those who return.

The Psalmist says: “The Lord is kind and shows mercy. He does not become angry quickly but is full of love” (Psalms 145:8 NCV).

If your spirit is crushed or weighed down, God isn’t waiting to punish, He’s waiting to restore.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and he saves those whose spirits have been crushed” (Psalms 34:18 NCV).

And no matter how far we’ve gone, the promise remains: “If you come back to the Lord, he will not turn his face from you” (2 Chronicles 30:9 NCV).

Here’s the truth. You’re never too far gone.

The lesson from Saul is not just a warning, it’s God’s invitation. Just turn around while you can. Let your heart stay soft. And when you fall, fall toward God, don’t fall away - or isolate.

GOD, man o man have I messed up at times. And when I do. I just stop, draw a line, write “start” and try my best to finish well in Christ. And as I have aged, I look back and see all the lines. I’m still not where I want, but I’m not where I was. Thank you for Jesus Christ, new beginnings, and your love. IJNIP amen ♥️