Shepherd Your Flock Well

Peter, one of the most influential disciples, was known to Jesus as The Rock. Christ knew the strong will and determination within Peter would serve him well as he grew in his Christian faith. Christ knew Peter would learn to stand firm. But before he stood firm, Peter fell. And when he fell, he fell hard. Peter was determined to stand for Christ no matter what! He told Jesus, "Even if all fall away, I will not." Yet within hours, Peter denied even knowing Jesus on three separate occasions. Peter fell away.

But God's grace, revealed in Jesus, gave Peter another opportunity to develop his faith and live for Christ. Jesus asked Peter 3 times, "Do you love me?" Peter responded, "You know I love you." And Jesus' simple reply was, "Feed my sheep." Peter was given a charge to care for the flock. To lead others to the love and knowledge of Christ. Praise God, Peter's failure was redeemed and he was used for reaching others for the Lord. Peter's leadership furthered the gospel of Christ.

We are all in positions of leadership. We are mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, employers, or committee members. People look up to us even when we are not aware of their watchful eyes upon us. Like Peter, we are in charge of a flock. There are people placed before us by God's design that we are to care for, build up, and lead to the Lord. Not by force or manipulation but by love, grace, and the power of the Holy Spirit we are to meet their needs, gently discipline and guide, and lead by example.

As Peter grew in his leadership, he encouraged others with the same charge he was given. In 1 Peter 5, Peter is addressing the elders of the church. He tells them to, "Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers- not because you must, but because you are willing to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."

Whatever your position, no matter where you find yourself today, lead your flock well. Seek to be an example in your speech and through your actions. Be encouraged by the words of Peter that your place of leadership is a place of service to the Lord Jesus Christ!