Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. (Acts 20:28 NIV)
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Recently, we’ve seen pastors and other Christian leaders removed from their positions because of sin. While we must continue praying for the purity and integrity of our leaders — who Scripture reminds us will give an account to God for those under their care — we should also remember that many of them are fighting battles of their own.
I believe that genuine, effective, Spirit-led men and women who are truly called into leadership will, as this author suggests, face many struggles. Many of these battles will never be made public. Yet they continue to serve, to fight, and to remain faithful to God’s call on their lives, even as they walk through severe storms and the valley of deep shadows.
Today, as you read this word from Pastor Jeremiah Johnson of Charlotte, NC, I encourage you to continue praying for these shepherds of the Church.
“I have never met a spiritual leader who did something significant for God in their generation who did not go through absolute hell on their journey to get there.
“I’ve listened to their tragic stories up close now for over two decades while I’ve been in the ministry. Unimaginable family turmoil and loss. Heartwrenching betrayal by friends and staff members. Controlling and Manipulative Church Boards. Desperate Marriage Crisis. Child Prodigals. Million Dollar Lawsuits. Embarrasing Bankruptcy. And so much more!
“The crazy thing is that 99% of these spiritual leaders don’t publicize online hardly any of this living hell they go through. They just keep preaching, praying, walking in humility, loving well, forgiving, and fellowshipping with the sufferings of Christ. It’s incredible.
“Many of them have all the receipts and the real truth about those who slander their names and reputation everywhere. Yet, they refuse to defend themselves publicly against false accusation.
“This is why I refuse to follow anyone in the ministry who does not walk with a limp. Show me your scars. Do you smell like sheep? Have you learned the sacred art of forgiving your enemies who you thought were your friends? Have you wrestled with the goodness of God because the death and disease all around you just didn’t add up? Have you graduated from the seminary of affliction and had your faith and character tested by fire? Has the jealousy and envy of men tried to devour you yet because of the favor on your life? Have you been falsely accused and learned how to count it all joy?
“I am convinced that the premier sign of trustworthy spiritual leadership is not stardom but suffering!
“And true spiritual leaders who are healthy refuse to see their suffering as a badge. Rather, they simply must acknowledge it as the primary tool God has used to fashion and forge them into the champion they have become today.
“’Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.’ 1 Peter 4:12″ – Jeremiah Johnson*
Strong God,
Thank You for the men and women You have called into leadership positions in Your Church. We recognize that these under-shepherds of the Good Shepherd are called into places of battle, no matter the congregation or ministry they serve. We recognize that they watch over those they lead, and that their efforts will be judged more strictly by You. So today, we pray that You would be very present with them — encouraging them, strengthening them, guiding them, correcting them, and providing everything they need as they seek You and Your Kingdom first.
We pray that You would guard them from all sin, compromise, and hidden struggles, and strengthen them to live lives that honor You. We lift up leaders who are facing unseen spiritual, emotional, or personal struggles, asking You to guide, direct, sustain them, and give them victory. Help them remain steadfast in the work You have given them, even when ministry is difficult, discouraging, or lonely. Carry them through storms, opposition, and seasons of darkness, giving them endurance, hope, and peace. Holy Spirit, continually renew, lead, and empower these church leaders so they can shepherd God’s people with wisdom and love.
We ask these things in the strong name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you. (Hebrews 13:17 NIV)
Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. (James 3:1 NIV)