News Article

INSTITUTE OF LOVE

The State of the Flock

Text Box: “Know the state of your flocks and put your heart into caring for your herds. For riches don't last forever, and the crown might not be secure for the next generation. After the hay is harvested, the new crop appears and the mountain grasses are gathered in, your sheep will provide wool for clothing, and your goats will be sold for the price of a field. And you will have enough goats' milk for you, your family and your servants.” Proverbs 27:23-27 NLT In other words, because life is uncertain, we must be more diligent in preparing for the future. We should be responsible stewards, just like a farmer with his lands and herds. How accountable we are to Gods Word toward our home, family, career, and finances, determines the favor and blessings we will receive. That is why I believe that thinking ahead is a duty and not an option for God's people, including pastors/leaders, revering to the following scripture: “Care for the flock of God entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly-not for what you can get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. Don't lord over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your good example. And when the head Shepherd (Jesus Christ) comes, your reward will be a never ending share in his glory and honor.” 1. Peter 5:1-4 NLT A good example of leadership is showing that authority is based on serving and not power. People should know you, not by your gifts, but by your love. Good leadership is caring for the people/flock of God so it will grow in the following areas: ● Stronger through worship ● Deeper through discipleship ● Larger through evangelism ● Broader through ministry ● Warmer through fellowship And finally, these are the characteristics of the growing flock: ● People oriented ● Emphasizes biblical purposes ● Decisions are controlled by wisdom and the mind of Jesus Christ ● Values working with others as a team ● Proactive and not crisis oriented ● Asks for suggestions or input ● Integer ● Promotes others and do not seek own glory ● Lives pure and godly ● Seeks to be kind, tactful, and gentle ● Communicates effectively ● Promotes sincere worship and commitment to God's Kingdom and not self promo-tion Jesus says in His own words how He deals with us as His flock: "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:11-12 NLT “May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, all that is pleasing to him. Jesus is the great Shepherd of the sheep by an everlasting covenant, signed with his blood.” Hebrews 13:20 NLT Copyright©2007 Sophia & Edwin Christiaan