Daily Encounter: A Week-day Devotional by a staff of ACTS International.

Friday, August 11, 2017

"Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care . . . not lording it over those entrusted to you."¹

Em Griffin, author of The Mind Changers, tells about a good friend from the University of Michigan who went as a medical missionary to Bangladesh. When he arrived on the mission field, he was informed that he couldn't keep his four children with him, but that they would have to go away to boarding school. This was the policy of the mission and he didn't have a choice.

He responded, "Sure I have a choice! Our kids need us. Evangelization in the home first, then on the mission field." He then proceeded to raise more money, found a teacher, and established a mission school right on the hospital grounds.

Certainly we need to follow our God-given leaders. However, when they are in the wrong (as we/they sometimes are), it is important to confront them in Christian love where necessary, and to do what is right. As Peter pointed out, no leader has a right to control (lord it over) anybody else. When we do, we are playing the role of God and the Holy Spirit in their life.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please give me the serenity to accept the leadership of your servants when what they say is in harmony with your will, the courage and grace to stand against them when they are not in your will, and the wisdom to know the difference. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus' name. Amen."

1. 1 Peter 5:2-3 (NIV).

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