Daily Scripture: 1 Peter 5:1-7
1To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
5Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Read additional translations at Biblegateway.com or youversion.com
Reflection Questions:
Peter asked early Christian converts (and us) to find the freedom that comes from humility with each other and trust in God. Too often, we’re tempted to link freedom with “I always get my way.” No, says Peter—relate to each other humbly, and trust your anxieties to God. As we mark Independence Day tomorrow, that kind of freedom is worth pondering.
- James 3:13-15 names “bitter envy” and “selfish ambition” as being the reverse of the humility that comes from wisdom. How have you seen pride tend to produce bitter envy or selfish ambition in you or people you know? How does humility guard your heart from these hurtful ways of thinking?
- Is it possible to act with confidence (in a church ministry, your work, your family, or just your own life) out of humility rather than pride? What attitudes or actions do you need to make that a reality? How can mutual humility smooth dealings between followers and leaders?
Read Darren Lippe’s insights on today’s scripture at gpsinsights.wordpress.com
Weekly Prayer:
Dear Jesus, you were compassionate with people who saw themselves too often as “being” wrong and bad, as missing the mark. You were honest with people who proudly saw themselves as “being” right and good, always hitting that mark. Be an accurate mirror to me, Lord, reflecting who I am and where I need your grace and instruction in my life. Amen.
Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, TODAY’S NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright © 2001, 2005 by International Bible Society®. Used by permission of International Bible Society®. All rights reserved worldwide.
