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Slow to Speak

I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it's like to be a leader, in on Christ's sufferings as wells as the coming glory. Here's my concern: that you care for God's flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to, but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously. Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way. When God, who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with his rule, he'll see that you've done it right and commend you lavishly. And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for -- "God has had it with the proud,  But takes delight in just plain people." So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you; he'll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; his is most careful with you. 1 Peter 5:1-7 msg

 


If there's something I really appreciate about the Message translation, it's the modern context of it. I worry that the translation won't hold up because it's so idiomatic, but it speaks wonderfully right now. Add into that the clarity with which Peter writes and it's a winning combination of CLEAR! It's obvious that Peter just plain lived out the Message. He didn't put on airs or try to win folks with flowery language. He boisterously got down to the point. I appreciate that. I need to pursue more of that. Because I certainly can put on airs, and I can certainly be unclear. James, Peter, and Wendell Berry might all be leading me to a more bridled tongue, not saying something until I know it is valuable to say it. 

Heavenly Father, when people call me out I get defensive and angry. Help me to say what is useful and what is right; not to put on airs or retaliate. Help me to be a man who builds up others with words, starting in my house. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen


Note:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_G._Ingersoll

http://andrewhidas.com/robert-ingersolls-eulogy-of-walt-whitman/

 

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