shepherding the shepherd
from PreachingToday.com
‘What Is That in Your Hand?’
Moses had just said, “What if they do not believe me or listen to me and say, ‘The LORD did not appear to you’?” It’s the question every preacher of God’s Word should ask. What if they do not believe me?
‘I Will Help You Speak’
Moses’ ability wasn’t the issue. When it comes to speaking for God, eloquence is as great a handicap as a stammer. Paul told the Corinthians, “When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God” (1 Cor. 2:1).
‘I AM Has Sent Me to You’
We’d be foolhardy to enter the ministry thinking we’re well-suited for it. The one essential necessity in representing the LORD is his authority, and every prophet and apostle bears witness that the message, “Thus says the LORD,” has nothing to do with our talent or temperament.
Solid Footing
Shepherds have precarious work, so plant your feet on these promises: “I will be with you. You will worship God on this mountain. I AM has sent me to you.”
The End of Tests and Tears
One of our pastoral privileges is to make God’s people homesick, to lift their chins and to help them envision the day when we leave the wilderness behind forever. Then, gathered with all the saints in bridal white, we will serve God forever in his temple. And God will serve us!
Exceptional Service
Once the resurrected Christ recreates his disciples’ lives, he assigns them to shepherds like us. Over the years of our ministries, believers come in and out of our lives, for months, years, or decades. But sooner or later we’re separated. Then what becomes of them?