Not Yours! Mine!

Shortly after my husband and I began serving as pastors, I heard the Lord say, "You have no people; I have people."

I had to respond in the words of my sister, "You sho' right."

Being called to lead is a call to serve.

It's a call to serve His people.

His Word declares:

Tend (nurture, guard, guide, and fold) the flock of God that is [your responsibility], not by coercion or constraint, but willingly; not dishonorably motivated by the advantages and profits [belonging to the office], but eagerly and cheerfully; Not domineering [as arrogant, dictatorial, and overbearing persons] over those in your charge, but being examples (patterns and models of Christian living) to the flock (the congregation). And [then] when the Chief Shepherd is revealed, you will win the conqueror's crown of glory. -1 Peter 5:2-4 (Amplified Bible)

The people that we serve, the leadership staff that serves along with us are not pawns in a personal rise to the top or self-proclaimed quest to go to the nations. They are not stepping stones to "next levels/dimensions."

The people we serve are souls; precious souls which Jesus Himself gave His life. As leaders we watch for their souls according to Hebrews 13:17. When we lose this focus, when those around us are only valuable if they can advance our cause or agenda and are dismissed if they don't serve our purpose; then we find ourselves in a very dangerous place.

It's time to do a heart check.

As leaders we have to guard our hearts (Proverbs 4:23) against pride and fleshly agendas. We are commanded to love the Lord with all our heart, with all our soul and all our mind. When we fall out of love with our Savior, what is sacred becomes profane and we mishandle the holy. Touch not my anointed also refers to those in the pews; not just those in leadership positions.

When Holy Spirit gives gifts to men it is for the perfecting of the Body; not our personal desires or aspirations. When personal agendas skew your perspective, it's time to pray. It's time to return to our first love which is Jesus Christ.

Leaders, you have no people. They're not yours. They belong the Father. You belong to the Father and will be judged on how you handle them. Don't forget, we are called to serve and advance a spiritual kingdom; never our own.

God is saying, not yours...mine!