September Reading from The Message

September 1, 2022

We are all leaders in our own way, but Peter reminds us that it is humility that makes us great. To be a great leader, we must first remember to be humble, and then we must remember who we are representing.

1-3 I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it’s like to be a leader, in on Christ’s sufferings as well as the coming glory. Here’s my concern: that you care for God’s flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to, but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously. Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way.

4-5 When God, who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with his rule, he’ll see that you’ve done it right and commend you lavishly. And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for—

God has had it with the proud,

But takes delight in just plain people.

6-7 So be content with who you are, and don’t put on airs. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.

8-11 Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You’re not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It’s the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith. The suffering won’t last forever. It won’t be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ—eternal and glorious plans they are!—will have you put together and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, he does.

Scripture Insight

How Humble People Lead

The most important quality that good leaders need to develop is humility. Humility, to put the record straight, has nothing to do with weakness. When we humble ourselves, we operate from a position of strength. We know that we’re loved by God and that he calls us to love others. We also know that other people are loved by God and are therefore objects of our concern. When we become leaders, then, it is simply to lead people to God and to share his love with them.

Humble people are confident people, for they know that God is the Rock under their feet. Humble people are knowledgeable people, for they know that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (see John 14:6). Humble people are strong people, for they do all things through Christ, who strengthens them (see Philippians 4:13). Humble people are leaders. But it’s the way they lead that distinguishes them. Instead of leading like a hard-driving cowboy prodding cattle, they lead like a gentle shepherd tending his sheep.


The Message Prayerful Reading Bible Portions

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