Three Personal Encouragements for Pastors from 1 Peter 5:1-11

I should serve willingly and eagerly as an under-shepherd. 

So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. (1 Peter 5:1-4) 

 Professor and retired-pastor Julian Motley taught me the term “under-shepherd”. This seasoned pastor was an example for a young minister in seminary of recognizing that Jesus is the Chief Shepherd. As Peter wrote these words, I wonder if he was thinking of Jesus asking him: “Do you love me?... Feed my sheep.” Jesus is the Chief Shepherd. May we be servant leaders who love Jesus. 

I must humble myself. 

 Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, (1 Peter 5:5-6) 

 In verse 5, Peter quotes Proverbs 3:34, “God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Pastor Peter reminds us of the great biblical truth that we must humble ourselves as leaders. A humble attitude, a teachable spirit, is essential to us being the men God wants us to be. 

I can cast my cares on the One who cares for me. 

…casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 5:7-11) 

 I can only imagine the cares and worries you may have today. In the midst of spiritual warfare, suffering, and your service to God, God cares for you! Proverbs 3:5 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” Isaiah 26:4 tells us, “Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal.”  

In Jesus name, You are not alone! 

BRIAN AUTRY