What does it mean to be “under someone’s covering?” This phrase is often used in Christian circles, but its true meaning is frequently misunderstood. I aim to clarify this topic through an in-depth exploration of scriptural principles.
The Pattern from Numbers 11
The Lord said to Moses: “Bring me seventy of Israel’s elders who are known to you as leaders and officials among the people. Have them come to the tent of meeting, that they may stand there with you. I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take some of the power of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them. They will share the burden of the people with you so that you will not have to carry it alone.
Numbers 11:16-17 (NIV)
In Numbers 11:16-17, God instructs Moses to choose 70 elders from among the Israelites. God then says, “I will take some of the power of the Spirit that is on you and put it on them. They will share the burden of the people with you.
This passage establishes a crucial pattern:
- God designates one leader (in this case, Moses).
- That leader identifies and selects other leaders to assist in the work.
- God imparts a portion of the Spirit that was upon the main leader onto the selected leaders.
The New Testament Parallel
We can connect this Old Testament principle to the New Testament, specifically Ephesians 4:11, which states that Jesus “gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers” to the Church. Just as Moses selected leaders, these individuals are designated by God and then they anoint others through the laying on of hands.
The Five Aspects of Being Under A Covering
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Vision
When you come under a covering, that means you receive and align with the vision God has given the leader. Embracing a separate, competing vision leads to division. The blessing and favor are upon the vision entrusted to the appointed leader.
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Communication
Those under a covering should communicate in a manner consistent with the leader’s communication style and tone. The fruit of their communication should reflect love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and long-suffering.
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Empathy
Leaders under a covering must cultivate empathy, seeking to understand the perspective and feelings of those they lead. They should strive to encourage and uplift, not discourage or divide.
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Adaptability
Good leadership requires adaptability and being willing to change directions as circumstances demand. Those under a covering should embrace the adaptability of their leader, rather than resisting change or complaining about it.
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Integrity
Integrity is crucial for those under a covering. Their private conduct should align with their public persona. They must be trustworthy stewards of finances and resources, demonstrating wisdom and accountability.
The Call to Honor Your Covering
In Christian circles, you can hear references to honoring leadership. I want to challenge the common phrase “I honor [my covering],” because it can become mere lip service if not backed by action. True honor is demonstrated by replicating your leader’s actions, speech, and character. It involves:
- Embracing the vision they cast
- Communicating in the same spirit as they do
- Displaying empathy and adaptability like they do
- Exhibiting integrity in all areas of life as they do
The Role of a Spiritual Father
Being under a covering does not mean constant, codependent communication. Instead, it is about emulating the leader’s example and bearing a portion of their burden, much like mature children assist their parents in caring for the household.
My Impartation as a Father
If you are under my covering, I pray for you to receive a fresh impartation of the Spirit. I ask God to bring you clarity, alignment, and multiplication in your life, resulting in true unity and honor – not mere lip service.
I urge you to understand the biblical concept of covering deeply and to embrace the responsibilities that come with being submitted under leadership. It’s vitally important to maintain alignment, and pursue replication and burden-sharing, all while maintaining personal integrity and maturity in the faith.
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