It’s said that “Love makes the world go ‘round.” But for many, guilt is a greater motivator. How often do you do things not out of love, but because you feel obligated?
Those who find themselves in positions of leadership within a church setting are particularly vulnerable to this.
When God calls us to lead others we are to respond willingly, understanding that spiritual leadership is an awesome responsibility and a privilege. Listen to St. Peter’s challenge to leaders: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers. Not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve.
Peter wanted us to be aware of the wrong reasons to say “yes” to spiritual leadership. The first is obligation. Sometimes when asked to lead others in church or community we do it out of sheer duty. It’s perhaps better than saying “no,” but hardly the best reason. The second “wrong reason” is greed. This is when you take on a responsibility because it will benefit you by providing you with recognition, power or financial gain.
Peter tells us to be eager to serve and eager to lead. Our attitude toward should not be “How can others serve me?” but, “How can I serve others?”
When we are called upon to be leaders, to shepherd others for God’s sake, may we eagerly say “yes” because we are willing and we want to bless others.
Related Scripture: I Peter 5:2
© 2007 Leith Anderson
