Practicing Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG11

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P R A C T I C I N G C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

God’s intent in your studies is not merely the orderly arrangement of truths in a logical way; God wants our lives to be transformed into the likeness of his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. The goal of this teaching on godly exhortation is that you might learn to responsibly and lovingly care for those little ones under your charge, as well as those who are growing to maturity in the context of your own Christian community. No leader’s toolkit is complete who does not understand and apply the Scripture’s teaching on the significance of discipline and restoration. You must constantly be open to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and leading as you seek to relate these truths to your own ministry through your church represents the core of this teaching. How God might want you to change or alter your ministry approach based on these truths is largely dependent on your ability to hear what the Holy Spirit is saying to you about where you are, where your pastoral leadership is, where the members of your church are, and what specifically God is calling you to do right now, if anything, about these truths. Plan to spend good time this week meditating on your own fitness to exhort others, both in terms of your own character, as well as your ability to restore others in a godly, pastoral way that builds up all parties involved. Ponder, too, how your ministry and that of your church reflects the holiness of Christ as you seek to pastor those under your care. As you consider your ministry project for this module, you can possibly use it to connect to these truths in a practical way. Seek the face of God for insight, and come back next week ready to share your insights with the other learners in your class. God has given promises that guarantee his working in all the areas of our lives as we pray. Prayer is the most essential and direct way to receive grace from our Father, not only in our ability to learn to exhort and encourage others to live the Christian life, but also our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit who will guide us into all truth, including the truth regarding godly spiritual discipline. Perhaps in your discussions and meditations you have been illumined by the Lord to discover areas in your life or others, issues that you must deal with, or just concerns that require the Lord’s attention. Do not hesitate to find a partner in prayer who can share the burden and lift up your requests to God. Of course, your instructor is extremely open to walking with you on this, and your church leaders, especially your pastor, may be specially equipped to help you answer any difficult questions arising from your reflection on this study. Be open to God and allow him to lead you as he determines. Ask the Lord for the wisdom and grace you need to become the kind of peacemaker he wants you to be in the midst of his people.

Ministry Connections

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Counseling and Prayer