Appeal for Humility

Peter sees the beauty of the suffering Jesus, the Chief Shepherd and desires to imitate him. He also desires all pastors and elders to imitate Jesus, as well as you who are church members. This involves learning to care for other people, serving them eagerly and willingly. This is not easy, but God works in you to bring this about. At the heart of this lifestyle is humility that helps you to avoid the pride of lording it over other people. You are probably lording it over people if you become harsh with them, if you think you know their intentions, if you are concerned about control, and if you are not open about your own sin. Ask God to help you to see the beauty of the suffering Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, as Peter did. Ask God to help you appreciate Jesus example in your pastors-elders. Ask God to forgive you for lording it over other people and ask him to help you to start cultivating a God-honoring, humble life.