Jesus is the Head of the Church, and in His grace, He appoints servant-hearted leaders to care for His people. These five devotions are designed to help you reflect on the biblical foundation for church leadership, the role of elders, and the gift of spiritual oversight. As you read each day’s Scripture and reflection, take time to consider how God uses His appointed leaders to guide, protect, and build up the body of Christ—and how you, too, are called to pray for and support them.
These devotions are drawn from the sermon preached on August 27, 2023. You can watch the full message here: Well Ordered.
Day1
Sharing the Burden
Devotional
Today, reflect on Moses’s plight in the wilderness. He felt overwhelmed by the task of leading God’s people, so God provided him with elders to share the responsibility. As you read, consider the role of church leaders in your life. How do they support and guide you? How can you support and pray for them?
Reflection question
In what ways have you felt the support and guidance of church leaders in your life?
Day2
Discerning Together
Devotional
As we continue to explore church governance, reflect on the council in Jerusalem. The apostles and elders came together to discern God’s will in a difficult situation. Consider how your church leadership collaborates to make decisions. Pray for wisdom and unity among them.
Reflection question
How can you actively support the decisions made by your church leadership?
Day3
Guided by Scripture
Devotional
Today, focus on the way scripture is used in the council’s decision-making process. This underlines the importance of scripture in guiding church governance. As you read and pray, ask God to deepen your understanding and application of His word in your life.
Reflection question
How can you commit to engaging more deeply with scripture to guide your own decisions?
Day4
Guarding the Flock
Devotional
Reflect on Paul’s words to the elders of Ephesus. Their role was to protect and care for God’s church, recognizing the cost at which it was bought—the blood of Jesus. Consider the spiritual care you receive in your church community and thank God for those who work to nurture and protect your spiritual wellbeing.
Reflection question
How can you show gratitude to those who serve in the role of spiritual caretakers in your church?
Day5
Serving Like the Chief Shepherd
Devotional
As we conclude, meditate on Peter’s exhortation to the elders. He emphasizes the servant leadership modeled by Christ. Pray for your church leaders, that they may serve willingly and lead by example, always reminded of the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ.
Reflection question
How can you follow the model of servant leadership in your own spheres of influence?
Let’s grow in grace—together
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