In what ways can we avoid being like the hireling in our faith? The hireling unmasked (John 10:13) “The man runs away because he is a hired servant and cares nothing for the sheep.” Why hearts drift toward hireling habits • Serving for applause, salary, or status rather than love (Matthew 6:1) • Resisting discomfort and sacrifice (Luke 9:23) • Treating ministry as a task, not a trust (1 Corinthians 4:1–2) • Neglecting personal communion with the Shepherd, so compassion dries up (John 15:5) Cultivating a shepherd’s heart 1. Know the Shepherd’s voice • Daily Scripture intake—His words tune our hearing (John 10:4–5; Colossians 3:16). 2. Love the flock as your own life • “The love of Christ compels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14). • Invest time, presence, and practical help (1 Thessalonians 2:8). 3. Embrace sacrificial ownership • “The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” (John 10:11) • Choose the inconvenient option when people’s good is at stake (Philippians 2:3–4). 4. Shepherd under the Chief Shepherd’s eye • Serve “not for shameful gain, but eagerly” (1 Peter 5:2–4). • Remember His unfading crown outweighs any earthly perk. 5. Guard motives through regular heart-checks • Ask, “Would I still do this if no one knew and no paycheck followed?” (Colossians 3:23–24). 6. Stay accountable • Invite trusted believers to speak into your life (Hebrews 3:13). Everyday guardrails that keep us from running • Start each day surrendering plans to the Shepherd (Proverbs 3:5–6). • Keep short accounts—confess self-interest quickly (1 John 1:9). • Celebrate others’ wins; refuse envy (Romans 12:10). • Practice unseen acts of service weekly; train the heart to love without spotlight (Matthew 6:3–4). • Memorize one “shepherd verse” each month to keep vision clear (e.g., Ezekiel 34:11–12; John 21:15–17). Living the contrast When storms hit, the hireling calculates risk; the shepherd counts sheep. By treasuring Christ above comfort and people above profit, we stand our ground, reflect our Lord, and hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” |
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