Panam Percy Paul – Cheer up

Simple as it sounds, God has the power to spiritually revive me no matter how faithless or defeated I am. In moments of feeling great defeat, even the thoughts of giving life up, God’s promises come through and He shows how bright my future is with Him. I was reading Ezekiel 37-39 and what an encouraging word that was to such a wayward people. Ezekiel himself was feeling down and look how God strengthened him with a strong word.

When I examine my heart, I ask myself, do I really want to make disciples? Do I struggle with wanting my action to be noticed by others? Both of these questions reveal how teaching can be dangerous. Peter gives me some dos and don’ts of discipleship.

Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight,^[a] not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you;^[b] not for shameful gain, but eagerly. – 1 Peter 5:2  ESV

The first quality I need to have to make a disciple is my own life needs to be a reflection and an example of what it means to follow Jesus.

Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. – 1 Peter 5:3  ESV

I think if my life ceases to be an example, I forfeit my right to instruct. It is life, not information, that is being imparted and those I disciple will only produce the measure of life that I have.

So when it comes to being an example, Satan wants to destroy that example – me. I need to be alert and dare not be unaware.

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. – 1 Peter 5:8  ESV