Dec
22
Clay in His Hands
Filed Under Devotional
“To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” 1 Peter 5:1-6
There are several places in Scripture where directions are given to different groups. Here, Peter is giving direction to the young and the old in the church and how they should interact. But, these directions are not an “either-or” proposition. I believe these to be a “both-and”.
As young men, we are encouraged to stay humble and be submissive to the older men in the church. We should practice humility to each other as a reinforcement of the humility we should show God.
As older men, we are directed to take on the responsibility of being good examples and helping the body. We should act as shepherds and overseers of our fellow church family members. However, I don’t think that should mark an end to the humility we learned as young men. In fact, I think that very humilty towards each other and towards God is what makes good shepherds and leaders.
Peter reinforces the idea that the older men should shepherd because we must, but because we want to serve God. We shouldn’t do it for money or power or influence, nor should we use any position of leadership to lord it over our brothers and sisters. We should be humble leaders who serve the flock. We may direct and guide, but we are like shepherds, who would defend the flock and stand between the flock and hungry predators.
If you are young or simply early in your walk with Jesus, focus on humility. You’ll never perfect it, but you need to make your efforts in achieving it a habit before you can move on to the next things God has for you. Once you’ve humbled yourself and drawn close to God, then you are ready to be shaped and used by the Master Potter.
Make yourself clay in His hands so He can make something of you.
“Yet, O LORD, you are our Father.
We are the clay, you are the potter;
we are all the work of your hand.” Isaiah 64:8