Read the Word:
1 Peter 5:1-5
Meditate on the Word:
Margaret Thatcher is quoted as saying something along the lines of, “Being a leader is like being a lady; if you have to tell people you are, then you aren’t.” Apostle Peter had spent over three years following the best example of a leader ever to walk the earth. Jesus did not lord his authority over people; he said “follow me.” He did not do what he did for earthly gain; he did it for the salvation of souls. Jesus was the one who introduced the world to servant leadership. He did not demand that people serve him, even though that was his right. He came and served others, and even washed feet. Peter would remember this years later when writing this passage to church leaders.
Three things must be right to be an effective leader in church or other organizations: integrity, attitude, and motivation. If integrity is lacking, then the leader has no credibility. If the leader’s attitude does not reflect that of Christ, he is not leading people to Christ. If his motivations are impure, then the leader becomes self-serving at the expense of those he should serve. Peter recognizes that this calls for humility. Humility is required by those being led, because God has called the leader to that position. Humility is also required by the leader, because God has called him to that position. He’s not there for his own purposes, but for God’s.
Pray the Word:
Pray for the pastor/elders of your church that God would give them the strength to do the job required. If you are the pastor, ask God to reveal your true attitude and motivation.
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