Title
The Vulnerability of Leadership
Scripture
...Strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered...
(Zechariah 13:7)
Devotional
Here we have the reason wars are won and kingdoms are undone. Any conqueror knows that the fastest way to defeat the adversary is by eliminating the leader. The accuser of the brethren knows this fact very well. It is for this reason that Satan desired to sift the apostle Peter as wheat.(1)
If you are in a position of leadership keep on your guard. Watch and pray lest you fall into temptation. Let those who lead abstain from every appearance of evil.(2) Live above reproach. Be aware of your besetting sin. Always remember: sin will take you further than you want to go, keep you longer than you desire to stay, cost you more that you are willing to pay, and affect others more than you can possible imagine.
Therefore, keep yourself accountable. Likewise let us pray for those who lead us, remembering that if the shepherd is defeated, the sheep will be scattered. But, if the shepherd is sound, the flock will remain intact.
(1) Luke 22:31, (2) 1 Thessalonians 5:19
Text For The Day
Zechariah 13:7: “Strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.”
Thought For The Day
“Does He not call Himself a Savior, a Shepherd, a Friend, and a Husband? Has He not made known unto us His love, His blood, His righteousness, His promises, His power, and His grace, and all for our encouragement?” John Newton, (1725-1807) Anglican clergyman and hymn writer (Amazing Grace), Strength in Trial, Letter II.
Questions To Ponder
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Can the Great Shepherd be scattered? Consider Hebrews 13:5.
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Whom do you shepherd?
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Do you pray for your shepherds?
Morning Study Guide
Defining: “Shepherd”: One who cares for, governs, and watches over others, a: pastor, elder, minister, under the authority of the Great Shepherd, Christ Jesus.
Referencing: “Then Jesus said to them, ‘All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written:’ ‘I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’” Mark 14:27
Applying: Everyone shepherds somebody, if not another, at least yourself. Therefore, stay close to the Great Shepherd.