"My Highest Level of Respect"

September 01, 2021 | By Chuck

             I’ve always had the highest level of respect for shepherds of the Lord’s church.  I’ve been fortunate to know many shepherds and served in ministry under several different elderships.  I respect them all, if for no other reason, for accepting the call to serve their congregation as a shepherd.  Serving as a shepherd in the Lord’s church is no glamorous job.  In fact, the task a shepherd is called to is very daunting and a bit overwhelming.  Our shepherds are called to watch over our souls.  In other words, shepherds are to lead their flock faithfully to heaven. 

            As the shepherds do all they can to watch over my soul and lead me to faithfulness in the Lord, I want to do all I can to make their job as easy as possible.  My shepherds have my best interests at heart and are trying to help me get to heaven, so why wouldn’t I do all I can to cooperate with them?  How can I best work with and cooperate with my shepherds?  How can I do my part in making their job easier?  The Hebrew writer gives us a few things to think about when it comes to our shepherds.  “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account.  Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you” (Heb.13:17). 

            It’s easy for me to write the words “I respect my shepherds”.  But, according to the Hebrew writer, my respect for the shepherds should be seen in my obedience and submission to them.  I’ll be honest and tell you that I haven’t always agreed 100% of the time with the elderships I’ve served under.  But, my high level of respect for them has led to my willingness to obey and submit to them as my leaders.  The bottom line is my shepherds will have to give an account for my soul.  Since that is the case, I definitely want to work with them, obey and submit to their leadership and hopefully make their job more joyful.