BGCT president: “He Leadeth Me”

I grew up singing the hymns. And so many times, I catch myself humming or singing those old hymns. They are a constant reminder of God’s hand in my life.

René MacielHere is one I have sung and used as a sermon, and I have drawn upon its lyrics several times in my work and walk with God:

He leadeth me! He leadeth me!

By his own hand he leadeth me;

His faithful follower I would be,

For by his hand he leadeth me.

As I think about the many leaders and pastors throughout our convention, I am reminded I need God every hour to lead and guide me as I serve him. In spite of all leaders may encounter and struggle through, they must remain faithful. They must be willing to serve others for Jesus’ sake. Sometimes that service may be difficult, and it may seem small, but God does use those small things to prepare us for larger things. As leaders, we must remain faithful to God’s call; as Joshua says, be strong and courageous, don’t be discouraged. A leader’s faithfulness will see him or her through the small and the big.

A leader also must have a distinct call from God. I believe without a shadow of doubt God called me to leave Baylor University’s Truett Seminary to come and serve at Baptist University of the Américas. There are many church leaders in our convention who have been called by God to go to a new place, a difficult place, a place only God could send them. You have to ask the question, “Are you called?” It’s something we all have to speak to God about.

Many times, we use our own wisdom or the judgment of the others to make a move or seek a position. Romans 12:2 says: “Do not conform to the thoughts and ideas of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Finally, a leader must have the word of God as his or her source of power and strength. A verse I memorized my freshman year at Hardin-Simmons University, Joshua 1:8, says: “This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”

God’s word has been a constant guide and instruction as I have served here at BUA. It has to be a constant “go to” in all leadership matters, our work, our home and our walk with God. Then, our way will be prosperous and strong and healthy, then we will be successful in following after our true leader.

I am grateful for the opportunity God has given me to serve here at BUA and to serve the convention. I take great pride in my role at BUA, and I am honored to be serving the Texas Baptist convention.

These are two great tasks, but I want to ask you to continue to pray the rest of this month for our convention leaders, pastors and ministers throughout the state. Pray God leads them as they lead others.

His faithful follower I would be,

For by his hand he leadeth me.

René Maciel is president of the Baptist General Convention of Texas and president of Baptist University of the Américas in San Antonio.