Scripture
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” (1 Peter 5:2-4)
Observation
I love this important heart and leadership check by Peter as to how we lead those that God has placed under our leadership – to shepherd or to Lord over. Do I see my leadership as a job and responsibility or a call to serve, love, and shepherd those whom I have the privilege lead? Am I an example, or do I compromise and even blow my witness by my words and/or actions, especially in the hallways of life? Am I motivated because of what Jesus did for me, the assignment to fulfill the Great Commission, and His example on the cross; or do I let the flesh, pull and temptation of pride and personal gain subtly slip into my mind, and thereby influencing and characterizing my thoughts and actions? These scriptures prompt me to check my heart, check my motive, and most of all, check who I am in Christ, and who I am following ... Jesus or the things and desires of the world.
Application
I count my call and privilege to serve our New Hope Ohana and others that the Lord will place before me to lead, love, and shepherd. I know that if I put Jesus first, my heart and mind will follow suit with the right desires and actions. I know that when I let self, pride, ambition, and the flesh sneak in; my mind and intent can think the best, yet my actions might be conversely different and not of your will.
It’s called servant leadership, where the authority pyramid is turned up-side-down. The leader is called to serve those the leader leads that they may realize God’s best. Jesus came to serve and not be served. So may I.
Prayer
Dear Lord, I pray that you would guide me to be mindful of my leadership; whether it be with my family, my team, those I lead, or those I minister to. May I serve them as you have served us. May my heart be a heart after your heart Lord, that I will love, lead, and shepherd accordingly. May I steward the honor given to me to be a shepherd leader.
