"nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock" - 1 Peter 5:3 (NKJV)Even the business world has picked up on something that we should remember about leadership. Jim Collins, in his book "Good to Great", researched what made companies great for sustained periods. He discovered what he called "Level 5 leaders"—leaders that everyone trusts and rallies around. What su...

"And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away." - 1 Peter 5:4 (NKJV)Peter uses this remarkable phrase—"Chief Shepherd"—to remind us of something powerful: any human pastor should be serving under the leadership and guidance of Jesus Himself. He recognizes all the flocks that He has all around the world, and you know what He's doing? He's appointi...

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." - John 16:33 (NKJV)There's a story in "The Insanity of God" about a man who was once a persecutor of Christians. His attacks and actions led to the persecution and deaths of dozens of believers. Eventually, he gave his life to Christ and becam...

"Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator." - 1 Peter 4:19 (NKJV)The word "commit" here is like depositing money in a bank. We deposit money to keep it secure and safe. Peter is saying, "Commit yourself to God. Place yourself in God's hands."Norman Geisler said this: "The solution to suffering is submission to sov...

"But rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy." - 1 Peter 4:13 (NKJV)Jesus said this in John 15:20: "Remember the word that I said to you. A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted Me, they'll also persecute you." Second Timothy 3:12 says, "All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus ...