"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.
“God opposes the proud
but shows favor to the humble.”"
1 Peter 5:2-3,5 NIV
Sometimes the Word of God just seems to come alive. Literally jumping off the page. I have been wanting to blog about my experience this Saturday at our first Common Ground mens breakfast. This morning this verse envelopes everything that I wanted to say.
It was such a great gathering and I am so thankful that God has allowed to us to be a part of this fellowship and serve alongside such awesome men.
Pastor Terran shared and challenged us with 6 very short and very practical steps for us as men.
1. Love God Well
2. Love your wife well
3. Lead your family (kids) well
4. Work Hard!
5. Steward your cash well
6. Fight for your brothers.
But then it happened. I was shocked at first. Surely this could not be happening, I mean after all this was a group of Christian men and these were Pastor's and elders. In today's church these types of things do not happen. Aren't Pastors supposed to be perfect and better then the rest of us. I mean, we are just men. These guys are pastors. I am being a bit facious, but in many churches today that is how things are. Pastors are not allowed to be open, real, and honest about what's happening in their personal lives.
But, this is Common Ground, and as the name suggest we are all on common ground. Pastor Terran after sharing his 6 basic points for men, went on to share his struggles in each of the 6 areas. Not past struggles before he was a christian or even things he struggled with years ago, but recent as of yesterday type struggles. Following his lead, the 3 other elders also did the same. It was awesome.
Following their sharing, Terran asked us just to break into groups and just pray with each other. The effect of the leaders humility and humblesness was evident as we all continued to share our struggles and lift each other up in prayer.
So amped about what God is doing here in the Valley.
