How can believers aid leaders' success?
How can believers support their leaders to avoid the pitfalls in Ezekiel 34:10?

Text Under Consideration

“Thus says the Lord GOD: ‘Behold, I am against the shepherds, and I will demand My flock from them and prevent them from tending the flock. The shepherds will no longer feed themselves, for I will deliver My flock from their mouths, so that they will not be food for them.’” (Ezekiel 34:10)


Recognizing the Pitfall

• Self-indulgent leadership that exploits rather than nourishes

• Neglect of the flock’s true needs

• Loss of God’s trust and eventual removal from ministry


Why Leaders Need Support

• Even godly shepherds can drift toward self-focus under pressure (James 3:1)

• Spiritual attacks intensify against those guiding others (1 Peter 5:8)

• Healthy churches result when leaders and members labor together (Ephesians 4:16)


Practical Ways Believers Can Help

• Pray consistently—intercede for wisdom, purity, and resilience (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

• Speak encouragement—refresh weary hearts with timely words (Proverbs 25:11)

• Offer constructive feedback—lovingly point out blind spots (Proverbs 27:6)

• Serve alongside—share ministry tasks so leaders aren’t overloaded (Acts 6:2-4)

• Honor them—esteem godly labor while keeping accountability (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)

• Give generously—meet material needs so they can focus on shepherding (Galatians 6:6)


Cultivating Accountability

• Establish elder plurality; no one voice dominates (Acts 14:23)

• Use transparent financial practices; invite regular audits (2 Corinthians 8:20-21)

• Encourage mentors and peer relationships outside the local body (Proverbs 11:14)


Encouraging Servant Hearts

• Celebrate sacrificial examples, not celebrity status (Mark 10:42-45)

• Invite leaders into everyday relationships—not just the pulpit (1 Peter 5:2-3)

• Model humility yourselves; the flock’s spirit shapes its shepherds (Philippians 2:3-4)


Sharing the Load

• Volunteer skills—administration, teaching, hospitality, mercy (Romans 12:6-8)

• Form prayer teams specifically for leadership covering

• Rotate duties that tend to sap leaders’ family time


Guarding Against Isolation and Temptation

• Provide safe spaces for honest confession without gossip (James 5:16)

• Encourage rest and sabbath rhythms; fatigue breeds compromise (Exodus 20:8-10)

• Protect them from flattery and favoritism; truth in love keeps hearts steady (Proverbs 29:5)


Keeping the Word Central

• Demand Scripture-saturated preaching and teaching (2 Timothy 4:2)

• Test every decision by the plain meaning of God’s Word (Acts 17:11)

• Study alongside leaders, fostering mutual submission to truth


Fruit to Expect

• Leaders remain shepherds after God’s own heart—feeding, guiding, guarding (Jeremiah 3:15)

• The flock matures, displaying unity and love (Ephesians 4:13)

• God’s name is honored, and the church stands as a light rather than a warning (Matthew 5:16)

In what ways can we ensure we are not 'feeding themselves' as leaders?
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