“Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart.” – Proverbs 3:3 (NLT)
Sheep are known for their loyalty. They follow their shepherd, recognise his voice, and trust him for sustenance and protection. The sheep’s loyalty is their way of acknowledging the shepherd’s care and guidance. And for the shepherd, this brings joy and fulfilment.
If sheep can show such loyalty to a good shepherd, how much more should we? We ought to express our loyalty to our spiritual leaders because they deserve it—they labour over us, nurture our spiritual growth, and show us care. If they have invested in us, we must respond by showing our appreciation and support. This is essential for good followership.
Our anchor verse calls for intentionality. It suggests that loyalty and kindness can leave us if we’re not careful. Therefore, it’s not enough to desire to walk by the fruits of the Spirit; we must be intentional about it. Reflect on your loyalty and kindness within your cell groups, fellowships, and local assembly.
Are you considered loyal? Is your kindness visible? Think about these questions.
Human relationships can be challenging, and you may disagree with your leader sometimes. They might say or do things that test your loyalty. As believers, we know the devil’s schemes (2 Corinthians 2:11). He exploits our emotions, creating discord. This is why we must guard our hearts with the Word and prayer (Proverbs 4:23).
You can show loyalty and support to your leaders through your response to their sermons, obedience to their instructions, and engagement with their social media posts. Let your support be visible and consistent. Defend your leaders against ignorant and malicious smear campaigns, but do so respectfully and conscientiously.
Scripture shows that you can gain favour through your supportive disposition. Shepherds continue to care for their sheep because of the sheep’s loyalty. This could be your experience if you deliberately show care and support to your leaders. You will be rewarded, not only by man but also by God, who sees your heart and is pleased with it.
This week, we discussed the importance of discipleship and followership. Discipleship is about learning and growing under the guidance of a leader, while followership involves supporting and uplifting those who lead us. As we grow in our spiritual journey, it is crucial to recognise the value of both roles. By being loyal followers, we honour the investment our leaders have made in us and create an environment where everyone can flourish.
Dear believer, just as God supports our leaders invisibly, you, who are visible to them, ought to support and cheer them on, as well.
Bible Reading Plan: Acts 8