The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.
1 Peter 5:1-4 (NKJV)
The one above is Creator and Father of all, but every child of God plays a crucial role as a shepherd either directly or indirectly. Serving the body not for dishonest gain is stressed and specified clearly here. Our actions and words to the world must penetrate the hearts of men and women and bring them to the knowledge of the one in us. The motive for service to the body must be for nothing more but for the advancement of God's kingdom and all righteousness. Any other interest runs contrary to God's desire for us. In our families, in our relationships, in our domains, in our world, we must resist the role of playing god over those we have direct or indirect influence over, but we must be the salt and light of the world showing Godly examples, providing inspiration and bringing encouragement to all in our spheres of influence.
Like a faithful and diligent servant, the Lord will surely reward every step of obedience to His word when the Chief Shepherd appears.
Be encouraged,
Afolabi
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