Devotion:
Read 2 Timothy 1:5-14.
Paul was a mentor and guide to Timothy. He begins this letter with a word of encouragement, reminding his young apprentice that he lives in a line of faith that goes back generations. In other words, God was at work in his life even before he was born! Timothy is not serving this mission on his own, but has been given authority from God through Paul to be a leader among the people. So he need not be timid in showing that leadership, but know that the Holy Spirit will give him all he needs, specifically “power, love and self-discipline.” He is reminded to follow the example and teaching given to him by Paul, as well as his mother and grandmother.
God still calls out from among his people those who will lead and guide. It is important that they are convinced that it is God who has called them and the Church has affirmed that calling. The Spirit does not just speak to the individual, but also affirms that calling through other Christian leaders. It is in that calling from God that the person gets their power and authority. The authority to lead does not come from the self; it comes from God.
I invite you to do three things. (1) Be listening for the area or role of ministry to which God may be calling you, including the possibility of being a leader. (2) Through prayer, seek discernment on how you can help someone else hear their call to ministry, including encouraging them in that calling. (3) Pray for leaders at all levels of the life of the Church.
Personal Worship Option:
Make a list of church leaders at all levels of the church. Divide the list by seven and pray for some of them each day.
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