I think today is going to be a thought provoking devotional. The two passages that I am using today have made me really think and look inside myself. The first passage I am using today is 1 Peter 5:2-3:

Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers- not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve, not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

The second passage is from Ephesians 4: 11-12

It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for the works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up

In the first passage we are being told take a watchful eye over God's flock, and to do it not for money, personal glory or recognition. That we should do it because we want to serve God and bring glory to Him. We need to lead be example and not be over bearing and demanding.

In the second passage we are shown the gift of teaching that He has given us to train and guide Christians in serving each other so that the body of Christ can grow and thrive. I believe that we all can teach the word of God and bring glory to Him, whether we write a blog, talk to friends, family and co-workers, or teach in a Sunday school class. Sometimes it can be very hard to do this with all our daily activities, but we need to stop and listen to what God is saying.

When we stop not only can we hear, but we become approachable for others. I know I have heard many times "I wanted to talk with you, but you looked really busy." I find that it is hard to approach people if they never stop, and always look busy. This a really hard thing for me since I feel like I always need to be doing something, if it is from working in my workshop building or refinishing a piece of furniture or even writing my blog everyday. So this discipline is a very hard one for me, and I know that it is hard for others with day to day activities of life. I think that if we all take the time to stop, we will see what God needs us to do, and even who may need some help with the truth of the word of God.

Today's questions are going to take a little thought for everyone, including me. When was the last time that we stopped and listened to the teachings of God? What is He telling us today and everyday? When was the last time that we were approachable for others to come to us for the word of God?

Today my challenge would have to be, for all of us, to stop and listen, learn and reflect on the word of God. Also stop and let someone that is lost or fallen for the truth approach you for the word of God. Plus be a leader by example, and do it to bring glory to God and not to yourself.