DAILY ENCOURAGEMENT WEDNESDAY – MORE ON GODLY LEADERSHIP.

When a general gets too far ahead of his troops, he's often mistaken for the enemy. - Source Unknown.

Church leaders, I am writing to encourage you. I too am a leader, as well as a witness to Christ's suffering, and I will share in his glory when it is shown to us. Just as shepherds watch over their sheep, you must watch over everyone God has placed in your care.

Do it willingly in order to please God, and not simply because you think you must. Let it be something you want to do, instead of something you do merely to make money. – 1 Pet 5:1-2. cev

It is obvious, that Peter had the prosperity preachers of his time causing him problems, as they do for so many leaders today. Peter gave this warning to leaders, so that they would not be tempted in their ministry, by filthy lucre. He was encouraging them to please God, by watching over everyone God had placed in their care, and to do it willingly. What a great example for us to follow today.

Bruce Larson, in his book Wind and Fire, points out some interesting facts about sand hill cranes:

"These large birds, who fly great distances across continents, have three remarkable qualities. First, they rotate leadership. No one bird stays out in front all the time. Second, they choose leaders who can handle turbulence. And then, all during the time one bird is leading, the rest are honking their affirmation.

That's not a bad model for the church. Certainly we need leaders who can handle turbulence and who are aware that leadership ought to be shared. But most of all, we need a church where we are all honking encouragement." - Bruce Larson.

Paul was also a great example, when it came to encouragement and humility... I am the least important of all God's people. But God was kind and chose me to tell the Gentiles that because of Christ there are blessings that cannot be measured. - Eph 3:8.

What a contrast to some of today's preachers. Paul was stating that he was the lowest of all God's people, yet he had such courage and love for them, and wanted them to know the blessings of Jesus. What an encouragement! When was the last time you heard any Television Evangelist/Preacher talk like this?

The following principles of leadership emerge from biblical teaching:

1. Christian leaders should be certain that their goal is to serve God and others, not to receive the title or honor that comes with leadership.

2. Leaders should not use their position for their own advantage or comfort. No task should be "beneath" them--although some tasks may be delegated. They should not ask others to do what they are unwilling to do themselves.

3. Leaders will seek to distinguish their own preferences from the will and welfare of the group as a whole.

4. Normally the position should seek the leader. There may be some situations in which persons may apply or volunteer. Nevertheless, when someone strongly desires a particular responsibility, his or her motivation should be carefully examined.

5. We must learn to see each other as valuable to the Lord and basically equal in his sight.

- Millard J. Erickson.

IF WE WANT GODLY LEADERSHIP, WE NEED TO PRAY AND FAST FOR THEM, AND CONSTANTLY ENCOURAGE THEM.

Loving Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit, help me to be a humble and encouraging leader, that I may bring glory to your Name. I ask this in the wonderful and majestic Name of Jesus. Amen.

Be Encouraged!
GBYAY