The Light Daily Devotional – Custodian, Not a Lord
Focus: Custodian, Not a Lord
The word for today
No one comes into your life to stay forever; everyone, including your children, is with you only for a season. To truly make the best use of various relationships, you must resist the urge to position yourself as a lord. Instead, embrace the role of a brother’s keeper!
Scriptural Reference
“Be 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; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” (1 Peter 5:2-3 NIV)
Understand that you are a custodian of the relationships and lives entrusted to you, not their ultimate authority. Those under your care should be seen as individuals with their own destinies and purposes to fulfill. It is crucial to foster an environment where they feel empowered to live their lives freely and make their own choices.
You must have the foresight to commission those placed under your care, preparing them adequately for their future. This means equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual guidance they need to thrive independently. Remember, your role is to prepare them for life beyond your influence, not to bind them to it.
Everyone around you must have the freedom to pursue their own paths and make their own decisions. Respecting their autonomy is essential in honouring God’s purpose for their lives. Avoid the temptation to impose your own plans and desires onto them, as doing so can stifle their potential and obscure the unique calling God has for each individual.
Your goal should be to lead people to serve God, not yourself. The true fulfillment of any ministry or relationship comes when we successfully guide others towards a deeper relationship with God. By focusing on their spiritual growth and development, you ensure that they are not merely serving human agendas but are aligned with divine purpose. Also, you fulfill your role and enable them to fulfill theirs, creating a legacy that honours God and enriches lives.
Meditation: What does your life represent in the lives of men around you?
Prayer: Dear Lord, grant me the wisdom and humility to be a true custodian of the relationships and lives You have placed in my care in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Emphasis: In essence, be a custodian, not a lord. Cherish the time you have with those around you, but always with the understanding that they are with you temporarily. Equip them, respect their choices, and guide them to serve God!
Have an Awesome Week!
