Verse
[Paul said,] "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood."
— Acts 20:28 tniv
Thought
Paul reminds the Ephesian elders of three heavenly truths about leaders. First, leaders are to watch, feed, protect and care for ("shepherd") the people of God. Second, the Holy Spirit was involved in putting them into their leadership role. Third, those who lead must always realize that those they lead ("church of God" or "the flock") never belongs to them, but to God who purchased it at such a high cost. This is a powerful and sobering reminder of their call for leaders. For followers, this is a reminder to follow. For each of us, this is a reminder of just how precious the church is to God!
Prayer
Almighty God, please be at work in our churches today through the Holy Spirit calling those you want and we desperately need into leadership roles in your church. I ask forgiveness, dear Father, for not valuing your church more highly and pledge to more fully cherish it as you do. In Jesus' name I offer these thanksgivings and commitments. Amen.
Devotional provided by Heartlight®
© 1996-2016. All rights reserved.
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[Paul said,] "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood."
— Acts 20:28 tniv
Thought
Paul reminds the Ephesian elders of three heavenly truths about leaders. First, leaders are to watch, feed, protect and care for ("shepherd") the people of God. Second, the Holy Spirit was involved in putting them into their leadership role. Third, those who lead must always realize that those they lead ("church of God" or "the flock") never belongs to them, but to God who purchased it at such a high cost. This is a powerful and sobering reminder of their call for leaders. For followers, this is a reminder to follow. For each of us, this is a reminder of just how precious the church is to God!
Prayer
Almighty God, please be at work in our churches today through the Holy Spirit calling those you want and we desperately need into leadership roles in your church. I ask forgiveness, dear Father, for not valuing your church more highly and pledge to more fully cherish it as you do. In Jesus' name I offer these thanksgivings and commitments. Amen.
Devotional provided by Heartlight®
© 1996-2016. All rights reserved.
