July 26

1 Peter 5:2–3 (NIV84)
2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

I was in a conference recently and it was said that we (as shepherds) cannot strive to grow the church in order to prosper financially. In other words, I can’t have as a motivation for church growth, the church’s or my own financial security or growth in finances. There are a few poignant verses in the Word about shepherds and this is one of them. It is the motives of the heart that God is looking for – as always.

There are many people who want to be leaders, teachers and speakers in the church. This verse is written to them as well. My counsel is this, if you don’t care about the sheep when you are not with them (Sundays or Wednesdays or whenever), then you aren’t qualified to teach or lead. If you just want to “teach and run” then you are not qualified to teach. If you want to lead because you like to be in charge, you aren’t qualified. If you look out for your own interests first, you aren’t qualified to shepherd. If your ministry is about YOU, then scrap it until you get a heart for the people. God is looking for leaders who care deeply for the people who they are leading, who lead, teach and disciple because they love it and not just because “they are called”.

From one who has given his life for the sheep, it is worth it. I haven’t paid the ultimate price like Jesus did, but I have paid a price that most know nothing about. I would do it again – pay the price. I am eager to serve you when I return from vacation this week – I miss you all.