Morning Devotional 072123 The Good Shepherd

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

July 21, 2023

1 Peter 5:1-4

1 Therefore, I have a request for the elders among you. (I ask this as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and one who shares in the glory that is about to be revealed.) I urge the elders: 2 Like shepherds, tend the flock of God among you. Watch over it. Don’t shepherd because you must, but do it voluntarily for God. Don’t shepherd greedily, but do it eagerly. 3 Don’t shepherd by ruling over those entrusted to your care; become examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief shepherd appears, you will receive an unfading crown of glory.

Good Morning, Make today a great day!

Being in charge is not easy! In my younger years, I couldn’t wait to be the one to make the decisions and assign work duties, but once that time came, I gained a new appreciation for the job of being the boss. The greatest bosses that I have worked for were those who led by example. They were not dictators, and they did not make demands of anyone for things that they would not do themselves.

What do we want from a boss? We want someone with wisdom but will also willingly admit that there are things they don’t know. We want someone who will teach us how they want things done by their example. Finally, we want someone who is caring and compassionate.

These requirements fall well into the words in 1 Peter this morning. Jesus walked among us and taught all through his example as the good shepherd. The sheep follow and trust the shepherd because they believe that he/she is there to protect and care for them. Just as Jesus taught, we are to willingly and lovingly shepherd the flocks of believers so that they may grow in their faith. Despite our flaws as both shepherds and sheep, God loves us unconditionally.

Loving God, We thank you! You bless us each day. May we be shepherds and sheep as you call us to follow and serve you. Thank you! In the name of Christ, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: God’s love for me is all-encompassing.

Follow Christ’s example! Pastor Liz