April 23, 2018
1 Peter 5:1-5 New Living Translation (NLT)
What makes a good or great leader for the work of God? Is it education alone? Is it experience alone? Scripture teaches the making of a good leader has everything to do with character and spiritual formation. A leader who is listening to and following the Spirit will care for God”s flock and be eager to wholeheartedly serve each member. He or she will be motivated by what can be imparted to others that feed them, rather than by what can be gained personally. And, here is something very important to keep in mind; a good leader humbly leads by example. During his earthly ministry, Jesus followed the Spirit, loved and served the Father’s flock, and led as a humble example. Would Christ’s true shepherd’s today be any different?
Before Christ ascended, he told Peter, “If you love me, feed my sheep.” In our passage today, we can tell Peter was doing the very thing the Good Shepherd had asked of him. Scripture teaches one day Christ will come out into the open with his rule. At his second coming, Christ will take his rightful place as the Great Shepherd. Every Christ follower will bring something valuable to the Kingdom; we will then find ourselves governed and positioned under his reign for eternity. Will you be ready for what he has called you to be and do?
1 Peter 5:1-5 He’ll Promote You at the Right Time
5 1-3 I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it’s like to be a leader, in on Christ’s sufferings as well as the coming glory. Here’s my concern: that you care for God’s flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to, but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously. Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way.
4-5 When God, who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with his rule, he’ll see that you’ve done it right and commend you lavishly. And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for—
God has had it with the proud,
But takes delight in just plain people.
Prayer: Lord, I am a simple daughter with a heart for you and your children. Thank you for using my heart in a way that benefits your kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.