DCLM Daily Manna 16 April 2026 Devotional Message Written By Pastor W.F Kumuyi
Read DCLM Daily Manna 16 April 2026, Thursday Devotional Message.
TOPIC: True Leadership Defined
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MEMORY VERSE
“For Key verse ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God” (1 Thessalonians 2:9).
BIBLE READING: 1 Thessalonians 2:7-9 (King James Version)
7 But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:
8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.
9 For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.
DCLM Daily Manna 16 April 2026 Devotional | MESSAGE
Many organisations faced an existential crisis when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the world in 2019 and 2020. While some leaders sought safety and comfort, others led from the front, working tirelessly to support those under their care. A striking example was seen among medical professionals who laboured day and night, sacrificing their convenience and risking their lives for the sake of their patients. Their leadership was not in words but in action, marked by selfless service.
Apostle Paul embodied this kind of sacrificial leadership. He did not demand assistance as an apostle but laboured to avoid being a burden to the Church. In our key verse, Paul states, “For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God”. Unlike many gospel ministers today, Paul’s ministry model was not built on entitlement but on effort. His work ethic matched the integrity of his message. He understood that true spiritual leadership is not about what one receives but about what one gives.
In many churches across the globe, some leaders demand financial incentives but fail to shepherd the flock with diligence. They request numerous offerings and seed money from the poor members. The Scripture is then used to justify the long list of contributions, with promises of blessings from God in return. While voluntary giving is commanded, it is expected that the proceeds are channelled to meet genuine exigencies. Paul’s words serve as a rebuke to all who seek privilege without participation. The gospel is not an excuse for ease but a call to endurance. He and his companions toiled so that no one could accuse them of exploiting the people they were called to serve.
Whether in spiritual service, business, or daily activity, believers must reject idleness and embrace responsibility. Leadership, whether in faith, family, or career, requires effort. The greatest impact comes not from words alone but from a life of relentless commitment and sacrifice, like the example that Jesus demonstrated.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Sacrifice defines leadership
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Psalm 89-91
About Author – Pastor W.F. Kumuyi
Listed among “500 most powerful people on the planet” by the Foreign Policy magazine in 2013, Pastor (Dr.) William F. Kumuyi is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM) headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria. DCLM started in 1973 as a 15-member Bible study group right in Kumuyi’s apartment at University of Lagos where he was a lecturer. His revolutionary Bible teaching on personal holiness and commitment to evangelism soon gained so much traction and resulted in a widespread revival.
