Are you a leader? Are in you in a position of authority? Are you a team leader, manager, director, vice president, CIO, COO, CEO, or president? How can you know if you are doing your job well? Do you think your responsibilities are only what is written in your job description?
If we stay at the same workplace long enough, many of us eventually are promoted into management positions. Some of them are lover level, some mid-level, and some are upper-level management positions. If we are true leaders, we take responsibility for those who work for us.
The same responsibility should be taken by leaders in our churches. God expects it. As the prophet Ezekiel speaks the words God gave him to speak, God expects shepherds, leaders, to feed the sheep. Feeding takes many forms. It includes speaking the truth of God, teaching the congregation God’s Word. It also includes caring for them, looking after them, and counseling them when needed.
Depending on the size and demographics of the congregation, no one person can provide for all the care needed. Other leaders and caregivers must assist. This is an important task God has given to his people. If the shepherds are not taking care of the sheep, God will remove them. This especially true if the shepherds are being selfish, only taking care of themselves and ignoring the sheep. A shepherd, leader, must focus on what is best for those under their care.
I pray we all know that shepherds are to care for their sheep. I pray we also know that it may require multiple shepherds working together. I pray each one of us who are leaders have a heart for caring for others. Shepherds care for their sheep. Leaders care for others. God will remove selfish shepherds.
Ezekiel 334:1-2 The word of the Lord came to me: Mortal, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesy and say to them: To the shepherds—thus says the Lord God: Woe, you shepherds of Israel who have been feeding yourselves! Should not shepherds feed the sheep?
Marty Pressey 