Scripture: 1 Peter 5:1–4
Devotion
What comes to mind when you think about a pastor? For too many people, the idea carries a connotation of anger, deceit, or manipulation. Many of us know a pastor who has fallen because of moral failure or has used the pulpit for personal gain. Because pastors point people to Jesus, when they fail, the beauty of the gospel can become obscured in the pulpit.
However, in 1 Peter 5:1–4 we see a clear picture of what a pastor is supposed to be: a man who watches over his congregation with humility, love, and gladness. He isn’t a man who cares about making money but is truly concerned with making disciples. The pastor of a church sets the example for what it means to follow Jesus. This is demonstrated not only in how he preaches but, more importantly, in the character he displays through how he leads his family and lives with integrity. A pastor wakes up each day knowing that one day he will give an account for how he has led his flock.
Jesus Christ is the true “chief Shepherd,” who is coming back one day for His bride. He loves His church so much that He gave His life for her. Until that day comes, pastors, LIFE Group leaders, volunteers, and every person who makes up one of our campuses are called to love one another with Christlike humility.
A Personal Prayer
Satan is on the prowl to take pastors out of the ministry. Pray for your pastor today. At some point, send him an email or text message and let him know that you love him, support him, and will continue to lift him and his family up to Jesus.
Pray for Our Neighbors: Welcome Home Ministries
Welcome Home Ministries provides pathways to healing and freedom through addiction recovery support, mental health counseling, and recovery housing. By meeting both physical and spiritual needs, this ministry helps individuals find wholeness and restoration in Christ.
- Pray for those in Welcome Home Ministries’ care to encounter Christ’s love, experience healing, and be transformed by the gospel.
- Ask God to bless the recovery housing with stability, community, and hope, giving residents a foundation for new life.
- Pray for provision and resources to sustain the ministry as it meets the spiritual and practical needs of those it serves.
Pray for the Nations: Every Girl Counts
Every Girl Counts has been transforming lives since 2016 by breaking the cycle of poverty through secondary education for girls in Nairobi, Kenya. By partnering with local schools and providing life-skills training, they are equipping girls and their families for a brighter, Christ-centered future.
- Pray for favor and strong partnerships with local schools and leaders so their collaboration magnifies gospel impact.
- Ask God to empower the girls they serve with wisdom and perseverance as they pursue education and develop life skills.