In what ways can we support and protect modern-day Christian leaders? Drawing from Obadiah’s Courage “For when Jezebel had slaughtered the prophets of the LORD, Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them, fifty men to a cave, and had fed them with bread and water.” (1 Kings 18:4) Obadiah’s quiet heroism offers a model for how believers today can come alongside pastors, missionaries, and ministry workers who face spiritual, cultural, or even physical pressure. Ways to Support and Protect Leaders Today • Provide practical care – Meet tangible needs just as Obadiah provided “bread and water.” – Gift cards for groceries, a reliable vehicle, or help with childcare lighten pressures that can distract leaders from their primary calling (cf. Philippians 4:14–16). • Create safe spaces – Obadiah “hidden them, fifty men to a cave.” Offer confidential, judgment-free zones where leaders can share struggles without fear of gossip or condemnation (Proverbs 17:9). • Pray faithfully and specifically – Paul’s appeal: “Brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may spread quickly… and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men” (2 Thessalonians 3:1–2). – Keep a list of leaders; intercede for spiritual protection, moral integrity, family unity, and Holy Spirit power. • Guard their reputation – “Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses” (1 Timothy 5:19). – Refuse gossip, clarify misunderstandings, and speak well of them in public settings. • Offer financial honor – “The worker is worthy of his wages” (1 Timothy 5:18). – Joyful, consistent giving to church and mission budgets shields leaders from undue financial stress and temptation. • Strengthen them through fellowship – Like Aaron and Hur steadying Moses’ weary arms (Exodus 17:12), stand alongside leaders through regular encouragement, timely text messages, or inviting them into your home. – “Encourage one another and build one another up” (1 Thessalonians 5:11). • Partner in the work – Volunteer, lead small groups, mentor youth, or handle administrative tasks so shepherds can focus on prayer and the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:2–4). • Provide loving accountability – “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). – Trusted peers or elders should ask hard questions about purity, doctrine, and family life, guarding leaders from isolation and hidden sin. Living the Lesson Obadiah acted behind the scenes, risking his own safety to preserve God’s servants. By imitating his foresight, generosity, and courage—while grounding every effort in Scripture—we safeguard today’s Christian leaders, ensuring they thrive as faithful stewards of the gospel. |
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