The Shepherd Leader
Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.—1 Peter 5:2-3
The leadership principles in these two short verses are remarkable. These words speak to our leadership identity. Leaders are shepherds. It's an identity that we must voluntarily embrace. Shepherds do not lead under compulsion with silent strings attached. They don't lead to earn a title and income nor for personal power and gain. But instead, they lead willingly; otherwise, it's shameful. And when it's time to act, they exercise oversight and give missional direction to the wandering flock to which they are in charge. But a word of caution; don't let leadership go to your head and thus become a dictator who strives to dominate.
ASK THIS: Do you lead like a dictator or a shepherd?
DO THIS: Address your compulsions, and lead like Jesus the Shepherd.
PRAY THIS: God, thanks for being my Shepherd and leading me with strength and tenderness.
PLAY THIS: Mercy Hill Worship. Good Shepherd.