Resilient: Powerful Hope in a Dangerous WorldSample

You’ve heard it since you were a kid, “lead by example!” We prided ourselves as 5th graders, knowing the 4th graders looked up to us as the cool kids. If you’re an older sibling, you know that your younger brother or sister used to copy everything you did growing up to the point of annoyance. If you’re a parent, you know those little babies are like little sponges, soaking up everything you do and say.

We know and recognize it, and God knows it, too. Scripture tells us to lead by example by using the metaphor of a shepherd with a flock of sheep. Sheep know the voice of their shepherd, and they follow him – no matter where he leads – because they trust him.

So is Jesus with us: He is our Great Shepherd, and we are His sheep. His people know His voice, and they have the desire to follow Him (Psalm 23 tells us He leads us beside still waters…how sweet does that sound right now).

Peter extends that metaphor, though, to our relationship with the people in the church. We are to lead by example. We are to be megaphones of God's kind, powerful voice so that His people can know His character. The shepherds of God’s flock are to serve others honestly and willingly. The shepherds of God’s flock are to lead by example of behavior and attitude.

God calls up leaders in His church, but it is a responsibility. It’s a responsibility that requires suffering, just as the Great Shepherd did. It’s a responsibility that enables the flock to experience the unmatched glory of God.

Reflection Questions

1. If people were to look at your behavior and attitude, what would they say about the character of God? Would they know Him better?
2. Do you serve out of compulsion or under the lie that it will earn your salvation? How can you lead willingly and honestly?
3. What is your relationship with authority like? Are you willing to be led by a shepherd?