I love the elders of this congregation. I get the privilege of serving under them and fortunately get to see some of the unseen works of these men. These men live out their salvation with their dedication to the Lord and His church.
Hebrews 13:17 gives us these words,
"Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit to them: for they watch in behalf of your souls, as they that shall give account; that they may do this with joy, and not with grief: for this were unprofitable for you."
This seems straightforward, doesn’t it? Then why do we not do it all the time? It is our souls over which they are watching. These men who serve the church do so willingly and sacrifice time, effort, and their talents for our benefit. The job is hard, and they know it. The job comes with extra accountability. They will have to give an account for not only their actions, but for the Christians they are charged with shepherding (see 1 Peter 5:2).
They seek to help and encourage; they pray without ceasing, and, for that, the church must be grateful with love, support, and even submission. This is not because they said so, or the preacher said so. It is because the Word of God declares so. When the elders uphold the doctrine of Christ, they are doing so with souls in mind.
In a world where selfishness is the norm, let us seek to be selfless like our elders who are reflecting the Savior to whom we belong. Please pray for them; they certainly do for you.
Grace and Peace,
R.D. Beavers
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