Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.
Hebrews 13:17 (NIV)
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Today’s Devotional
In Hebrews 13:17, the author of Hebrews encourages believers to have confidence in their spiritual leaders and submit to their authority. This is important because leaders in the church are responsible for keeping watch over the spiritual well-being of their congregation and must give an account to God for their leadership.
Submitting to spiritual leaders means respecting and trusting their guidance, praying for them, and supporting their efforts to serve the congregation. By doing so, their work can be a joy and not a burden, benefiting both the leaders and the congregation.
As Christians, we should recognize the importance of submitting to spiritual authority for our growth and spiritual well-being. We should also be mindful of the responsibility and accountability that comes with being a leader in the church.
Time to reflect
To apply the lessons from this verse, consider these points:
- Recognize the importance of spiritual leadership and the responsibility leaders have to care for and guide their congregation.
- Develop a respectful and supportive attitude toward your spiritual leaders, understanding their role in your spiritual growth.
- Pray for your spiritual leaders, asking God to guide, strengthen, and protect them as they fulfill their responsibilities.
- Submit to the guidance and instruction of your spiritual leaders, understanding that this submission benefits both you and your leaders.
- Encourage and support your spiritual leaders in their work, making their service a joy rather than a burden.
Prayer Of The Day
Lord, thank You for the spiritual leaders You have placed in our lives to guide and care for us. Help us to recognize the importance of submitting to their authority and supporting their work. We pray for our spiritual leaders, asking that You strengthen, protect, and guide them in their service.
Teach us to be respectful and supportive of our leaders, understanding the responsibility and accountability that comes with spiritual leadership. May our submission and support make their work a joy, benefiting both them and our spiritual growth.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Strengthening Faith
To apply the lessons from this verse, take these action steps:
- Recognize the importance of spiritual leadership and the responsibility leaders have to care for and guide their congregation.
- Develop a respectful and supportive attitude toward your spiritual leaders, understanding their role in your spiritual growth.
- Pray for your spiritual leaders, asking God to guide, strengthen, and protect them as they fulfill their responsibilities.
- Submit to the guidance and instruction of your spiritual leaders, understanding that this submission benefits both you and your leaders.
- Encourage and support your spiritual leaders in their work, making their service a joy rather than a burden.
Today Wisdom
Submitting to spiritual authority is essential for our growth and spiritual well-being. As we recognize the importance of spiritual leadership, let us develop a respectful and supportive attitude toward our leaders, praying for them and submitting to their guidance. By doing so, we create a joyful and beneficial relationship with our leaders and foster our spiritual growth.
