Our Daily Scripture – 9/7/22

SCRIPTURE:  1 PETER 5

BIBLE VERSES:

“ Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.   And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.’ (1 Peter 5:2-4)

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7)

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.   Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” (1 Peter 5:8-9)

“ And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.  To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 5:10-11)

TO ELDERS AND YOUNG MEN (vs. 1-11)

Paul advised the elders to be shepherd of the flock by leading them and caring them with a willing heart.  By being a good example to the flock, they will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

To the young men, Paul gave theses advices:

  1. Be submissive to those who are older (v. 5)
  2. Humble yourselves under God’s mighty hand (v. 6)
  3. Cast all your anxiety on Him becaus eHe cares for you (v. 7)
  4. Be self-controlled and alert to detect the devil (v. 8)
  5. Resist the devil and stand firm in faith (v. 9)

THOUGHTS:

EXHORTATIONS TO THE PASTORS

  1. Be faithful in your ministry and endure sufferings for glory always follows suffering.
  2. Shepherd the flock by feeding, leading, encouraging, disciplining and guarding them.
  3. Serve with a willing heart and not for shameful gain.
  4. Do not  become an overlord or dictator.  Instead show good examples to the flock.

EXHORTATIONS TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH:

  1. Cast all your worries, stress and daily struggles to the Lord.  Trust God and know that He cares.
  2. Watch out for Satan.  He is like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.  Resist him by standing firm in the faith.  Keep your eye on Jesus.