My immediate elder brother was one of the earliest influences on my life; he made a huge contribution to my growth. At that time, his demands would make me feel uncomfortable. He would ask some “disturbing” questions, challenging me and stretching my thinking. Looking back today, I thank God for his role in my life.

Friend, do you have people in your life who ask you some uncomfortable but helpful questions? Do you have people who make uneasy demands on you; those to whom you are accountable (Esther 4:12-17)? At first, you might dislike them but later you realize that they are one of your greatest blessings. They may be your friend, sibling, pastor, Boss, spouse etc.

Who is that person in your life that can look you in the face and probe your actions (Galatians 2:11-14)? Who is your Nathan that can dare tell you that you have sinned (2 Samuel 12:1-14)? Who is your Samuel that can tell you that you are disorderly (1 Samuel 15:22-23)? Who is your Elihu, though young, but God has packaged wisdom in his heart for you (Job 32:4-9)? Who is your Jethro that would teach you simple leadership and organizational lessons you are missing (Exodus 18:13-24)?

While pastoring on campus, a dear young lady in my executive would visit me and ask such “disturbing” but encouraging questions; “Pastor, how is your prayer life? What about your CGPA? Hope you are eating well? Hope you are doing fine generally?” A lot of people could not ask me such questions but she dared to ask me. God used her to bring stability and encouragement to me.

The higher you go in life, the more you need this kind of people in your life. It is not a sign of bigness to be in a state where nobody can sit you down and talk real sense to you. Sometimes, you would feel like shutting them down or being on the defensive, but you would always hear the still small voice of the Holy Spirit telling you, “this is the way, walk in it” (Isaiah 30:21).

Who are your teachers (Isaiah 30:20-21)? Who is that person who can gently and lovingly confront you regarding your improper relationship with the opposite sex? Who is that person that would not respect what you have become but would be under divine obligation to push you to your next level? When you see such people, treasure them, listen to them. You don’t need sycophants in your life, you need real people!

‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria