Devotion: Fearless Leaders

Please take the time to read Philippians 2:1-13

Although Paul was writing from prison, joy is a dominant theme in this letter to the Philippians. His joy is grounded in his relationship with Christ. He’s asking the Philippians to make his joy complete by being like-minded in Christ. He wants leaders who are humble, who look to the interests of others.

In Pastor Sarah’s sermon last Sunday, she defined what makes a fearless leader. When we know our audience (gender, age, geographic area, etc.) we can better serve that person’s needs. It helps us to act with sensitivity and kindness, putting our own self-interests aside.

Sheridan’s care visitation ministry equips volunteer members to go into hospitals and rehab facilities on specific days, bringing comfort and encouragement. It’s helpful to read that patient’s needs and concerns so that we might minister to them. We humble ourselves to use practical wisdom and share God’s love as Christ loves us.

Paul encouraged the Philippians to have a Christ-like mindset. Jesus humbled himself to be a bond-servant which led him all the way to the gruesome cross. He loved us that much! We become leaders by following Jesus’s example of self-sacrifice for others. We are to lay aside our own selfishness and fear which causes us to think about ourselves.

Paul wants us to adopt a servant attitude, serving out of love for God and others. We can look for opportunities to serve others with a Christ-like mind. Our world is a scary place but God holds us up in times of fear. He walks beside us and works in us to do his will in order to fulfill his good purpose.

We need not fear. He is near. Be a fearless leader!

Dear Lord,
Make me a servant, humble and meek. Let me lift up those that are weak, and may the prayer of my heart be always to serve you.  
Amen.

Written by Janece Nelson

Janece and husband, Mike, have been members of Sheridan for more than twenty years. Janece is a retired mathematics instructor teaching at the middle school and college level. They are blessed with two children and three grandchildren.

Janece finds her greatest joy in spending time with her family and friends. Her passion is writing devotions for patients in hospitals and rehabs she sees every Monday as a Sheridan hospital visitor. As a Teammate she also mentors girls at Boys Town. Janece credits Faith Builders and Companions in Christ for her spiritual growth.