"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;"
{1 Peter 5:2} (NIV)
God’s leaders must be willing. A church is not a church unless they have shepherd leaders, which is what we call in Parkdale, an elder/pastor/deacon. God’s leaders are required to shepherd because they want to, not because they have to! The heart of the leader, the motive that drives his actions, is of primary importance to God.
Deborah’s beautiful song of the victory of God’s people over the enemy contains within it key truths about the importance of the willingness of all of God’s people, for victory to occur. The women rightly get the glory, for it was Deborah who got the men moving and Jael who finished Sisera off! The singers, the villagers, the leaders and the volunteers are all mentioned.
When leaders lead out of willingness - when singers sing out of a glad heart - when wise women step forward and speak to the leaders - when people from all walks of life, willing volunteer and gather together under leadership, following them as they step out. WOW. When this happens, God shows up in power and there are great victories won for Him.
I am so thankful for the leaders at Parkdale, for their willingness and inner motivation to be the leaders that God wants them to be! I am so thankful for the many people who willing volunteer and gather around under leadership. This willingness in the hearts of the people of Parkdale, and the Presence and blessing of God in our efforts has brought souls into His kingdom this past year, and we can expect great victories to come!
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