In John 21: 15-17 Jesus asked Simon Peter 3 times, “lovest thou me?” And Peter told Him each time, Lord you know I love you. Every time He told him “Feed my sheep”.
Every one of us should have someone that we are pulling alongside us… following us as we follow Him. Who are you feeding? This helps us keep the focus off of self. Even water becomes stagnant when the flow stops. We also become spiritually “fat” when we are only taking in and not giving out.
Isaiah 35:3 “Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.” We are commissioned to look beyond ourselves.
I Peter 5: 2-4 “Tend (nurture, guard, guide, and fold) the flock of God that is [your responsibility], not by coercion or constraint, but willingly; not dishonorably motivated by the advantages and profits [belonging to the office], but eagerly and cheerfully; Not domineering [as arrogant, dictatorial, and overbearing persons] over those in your charge, but being examples (patterns and models of Christian living) to the flock (the congregation). And [then] when the Chief Shepherd is revealed, you will win the [a]conqueror's crown of glory.”
The same passage in The Message:
"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. 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."
Maybe you don’t think of yourself as a leader… but we are all leading someone whether we choose to or not.
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