Goodly Shepherds

"And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.”  Psalm 78:72

This verse describes three things that we should be committed to do as followers of Jesus. It gives us the framework for how to lead well.

Shepherd. Empty sheep pens never get messy. But where there are sheep, there are messes. Shepherding is the calling to be involved in the mess of people's lives. Adultery and addictions, divorce and depression, broken bodies and broken hearts--life is messy. But shepherds (imperfect and broken themselves) are willing to wade through the mess and tend the sheep.

Integrity of heart. Shepherds must tend their hearts. It won't take long for an unhealthy shepherd to have a pen full of unhealthy sheep. Leaders must lead themselves before they can lead others.

Skillful hands. Leaders are learners. We must constantly develop shepherding skills that benefit those God has placed in our charge. An unskilled, untrained, and undisciplined shepherd will lead the sheep down dangerous and deadly paths.

From parents of children to presidents of companies, we must lead with tender shepherding, integrity of heart, and skillful hands.

“Father, make us godly shepherds. Give us the desire to develop whole and obedient hearts. Give us the passion to continue to develop the skills of our calling. In Jesus' name. Amen.”

Ron Moore