The Spirit of the Lord says: “Consider your ways.”
During this time and season, it is important to give careful thought to where you apply your efforts. The Lord tests the hearts of men and understands all our actions and our ways. As He searches our hearts, our intentions and motivations are revealed, allowing His Spirit to lead and guide us toward a higher alignment with Him.
Just as Jesus told His disciples that those who do the will of His Father in Heaven are His true family, the Lord is challenging each of us to take a serious and sober look at what we do and why we do it. Is what we are doing in accordance with His will? We must carefully consider how we steward our time, finances, words, relationships, and responsibilities. All of these aspects require careful reflection through the lens of His Spirit.
Activation:
Over the next two days, we will read through 1 Peter 5: 1-11 (ESV). Today we begin with the first six verses of this scripture. The Lord wants to stir your hearts as you hear His voice through the scripture.
Serve God Willingly
1 Therefore, I strongly urge the elders among you [pastors, spiritual leaders of the church], as a fellow elder and as an eyewitness [called to testify] of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory that is to be revealed:
2 shepherd and guide and protect the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not [motivated] for shameful gain, but with wholehearted enthusiasm;
3 not lording it over those assigned to your care [do not be arrogant or overbearing], but be examples [of Christian living] to the flock [set a pattern of integrity for your congregation].
4 And when the Chief Shepherd (Christ) appears, you will receive the [conqueror’s] unfading crown of glory.
1 Peter 5:1-4 (AMP)
Consider where God has placed you geographically, spiritually, and relationally. Ask the Lord how you can serve as a better example to the people around you. If you’re a leader in any capacity, seek His guidance for a candid assessment of your strengths and weaknesses in leading and guiding others.
Serve God Willingly
5 Likewise, you younger men [of lesser rank and experience], be subject to your elders [seek their counsel]; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another [tie on the servant’s apron], for God is opposed to the proud [the disdainful, the presumptuous, and He defeats them], but He gives grace to the humble.
6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God [set aside self-righteous pride], so that He may exalt you [to a place of honor in His service] at the appropriate time,
1 Peter 5:5-6
It is in humility and surrender that we grow in wisdom. Ask the Lord to show you the areas where you need to increase in humility towards God and others to better reflect the meekness of the heart of Jesus.
#lionbites
Unapologetically Marcia 