Devotion
Fool’s gold
David Jacobs
In this passage the Apostle Paul shares his goodbye address with the Ephesian elders, that is, his final instructions to the church leaders in Ephesus. He has much to say, but let's focus on the three traits that he says should characterize good shepherds (good leaders).
First, he says a good shepherd will "feed the church of God" (28) "the word of his grace" (32). The first job of a pastor is to teach the Scriptures. Your pastor may not be perfect, but if he is teaching you the Bible week in and week out, be thankful for him.
Second, a good shepherd points people to the ultimate Good Shepherd, the Lord Jesus. Paul says in verse 30 that false leaders try "to draw away disciples after them"—that is, after themselves rather than Jesus. Perhaps you serve in a pastoral or teaching role and are sometimes discouraged that your messages and lessons aren't more exciting. But do they point people to Jesus? Do they encourage people to trust God more? Then you are being faithful and God is pleased with you.
Third, a good shepherd leads by example. That is what Paul meant when he said "I have shewed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak" (35). He had set a good example for them in ministering to those in need. Good examples are so important! I read about a dad who was hiking with his little boy when the climb became difficult, even dangerous. The dad stopped to consider which way to go and heard a little voice over his shoulder: "Pick a good path, Dad. I'm coming right behind you."
Prayer
We're all examples to someone. Can others find Jesus by following in your footsteps? If not, determine today to make whatever changes are necessary to be a good shepherd.
Night Prayer
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Inspiration
We despise the thought of a pile of dirty dishes in the sink. The outside is easy to clean; it's the caked-up residue on the inside that's so difficult to remove. Jesus compares the scribes and Pharisees with dishes that have been wiped clean on the outside while dirty inside. The Pharisees took exceptional care of their outward appearance and neglected their inward spirits. We are guilty of allowing our hearts to be left filthy as well. We look and act as we should while our souls are full of darkness. We must continue to converse with the Holy Spirit daily and trust His guidance to cleanse our sinful nature.
Prayer
Dear God, Please forgive our sinful nature. We yearn for cleansing from within, so we are genuine witnesses to Your name. In Jesus' Name, Amen.