Tuesday, Oct 11th - 2016

Willingness & Obedience

In our Centerbranch Connect Group Leadership Manual we are encouraged to shepherd our CG members (p. 23).  Psalm 80:1 refers to God as the “Shepherd of Israel,” stating that He leads His people as one would do with a flock of sheep.  Three Hebrew words are used to define shepherd meaning to care for & feed, associate with, & be a special friend.

The apostle Peter gave instructions to those put in charge of believers in their areas (Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia); his “care” instructions will work for us as CG leaders.  In I Peter 5:2, he stated we are to feed God’s people.  The Word of God has milk to nourish the babies in Christ and meat to strengthen the mature believers (Heb. 5:12-14). 

Peter said we are to have a ready mind in our endeavor to minister care, truth, and relationship.  In other words, be excited & passionate.  In verse 3, Peter reminded the readers of their primary responsibility – to be an example of what they teach & preach.  Our manual says it this way, “As a leader you must first lead yourself” (p. 14).  

The apostle’s instructions to the shepherds concluded in verse 4 with the promise that they would receive a crown of unfading glory at the appearing of Jesus, the Chief Shepherd.  Our enthusiastic work with the members of our Connect Groups will not go unnoticed or unrewarded.  This is God’s business, & He is faithful to those that answer the call to labor together with Him. 

Joi Norris

"Life-change happens in the context of relationships"

What are you doing this week to build and strengthen relationships within your group?