Today’s Devotion
Topic: The Desire Of Every Genuine Shepherd
Text: Colossians 1: 29
To this end I labour, struggling with all His (Christ’s) energy, which so powerfully works in me. Amen
One day, Apostle Paul explained that which should become the guiding principle of every Minister of Christ. He gave an exposition on his calling, explained why he was so passionate about it and to what effect. This is what the Apostle wrote:
“He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labour, struggling with all His (Christ’s) energy, which so powerfully works in me.” (Col 1: 28- 29)
He continued, “I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.” (Col 2: 1-5).
Beloved, do you now see into the hearts and minds of the genuine shepherds and spiritual leaders in your life? Do you now understand why they act so concerned and become very supportive at the least call for attention? You see, your shepherd may love you to the core, however, that much love is definitely not the only reason why he/she labours for your salvation day and night. Here are some other reasons why they do so:
i. They have a higher calling to teach and admonish you with all wisdom so that they may present you perfect in Christ.
ii. The energy of Christ works powerfully in them so that they can labour for you.
iii. The purpose of their concern for our soul, is that each of us may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that we may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order to know the mystery of God.
iv. Admonishing and encouraging the church equips us so that we are not deceived by fine-sounding arguments.
v. Finally, every shepherd delights to see how disciplined the Lord’s people under his care have become and how firm their faith in Christ is.
So you see why you must pray for your Pastors, Shepherds and Spiritual leaders? So that they continue to keep the above guidelines in their hearts and minds; otherwise the selfish and godless characteristics blowing from the false men of God will easily corrupt them too. Pray that the Holy Spirit continues to strengthen them to labour for the Lord without quitting.
Finally, since we happen to be a royal priesthood, pray for yourself so you are guided by all the above principles to preach salvation to your friends and loved ones. God can use your life and obedience to turn the world around; are you willing?
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