Here is the verse we read, discussed, and prayed about in elders meeting this morning:
Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith you follow, considering the outcome of their conduct.
Hebrews 13:7
Observations from the text:
Leadership necessitates speaking the word of God to people in a way that they can understand.
Leadership is about embodying the word of God in a faith and conduct that people can follow.
Leaders are supposed to live faithful lives which can be observed, considered and followed.
Prayers for the elders:
Remember those who rule over you
Lord, help us to lead with wisdom and diligence. Leadership is a stewardship from you. Help us to discharge the responsibility you have given to us in dependent faithfulness unto you.
who have spoken the word of God to you
Lord, cause us to speak your word to your people, one to one in private discourse and one to many in public preaching.
whose faith you follow
Lord, you want your people to follow our faith. For this to happen you must give us faith and we must exercise that faith in every aspect of our lives. Mold us into men who live lives of faith that are worthy of being followed.
considering the outcome of their conduct
Lord, you want your people to consider the outcome of our faith. Keep us faithful to the end. Cause us to persevere with a faith that endures.