The Blessing Of Spiritual Leaders
“The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.” 1 Timothy 5:17 NIV
Today I am thankful for spiritual leaders in all forms. Mothers who are leading their children in prayer, fathers who study the word with their sons, teachers who mentor their students in the ways of God and of course pastors who lead hundreds to Christ.
As I reflected on the spiritual leaders that I’ve had in my life I realize that at each stage, even from infancy, God strategically placed specific people with unique talents in my life to bring out the best in me.
I absolutely loved my first grade teacher she was the mother away from my mother. She would protect us from the ‘big kids’ in school and scold us when we needed it. I had many teachers like that and remember in high school that my religious studies teacher was the one who first planted the seed of forgiveness for my father in me at a time when my home situation made me resent him.
Fast forward to years later if it were not for my liturgical dance instructor I would not be saved and if it were not for my pastors my spiritual gifts may not have been developed when they were.
From youth leaders to my big sisters, coworkers to college professors I thank God for those who made an impact on my life through their words, actions and obedience to His voice.
Think back on a moment where the advice of a church mother, your teacher, an older sibling, or your pastors seemed to be the breathed out word of God for your situation in that moment. Recognize that God loves you so much that he places people in your life to shape and mold you into the you he needs you to be to impact the world.
I challenge you today to call a person who would have made an impact in your life and tell them thank you for their spiritual guidance and words of encouragement. Go a step further and commit to being that person for someone else. Let me know how it goes, wishing you all the best.