Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.
1 Timothy 5:17 (ESV)
Father, I give You thanks this morning for all those pastors and spiritual leaders whom You have caused to cross my path, pouring their lives into me, and revealing to me the things of You. From the time when I first gave my life to You, after hearing those glorious words spoken from the pulpit, to this day You have raised up person after person to shine a light on my life, show me the results of my steps and decisions, and to provide counsel to my soul. Their love for You manifests itself in a love for me that transcends gender, race, age, education, status – You name it. Their selfless sacrifice to love me with the unconditional love of Christ Jesus points me to my Savior, reminding me of His call to love (John 13:34). Many have been a phenomenal example of folks to follow as they follow You (1 Corinthians 11:1).
Father, forgive me for ever taking them for granted. They are a precious gift from You to aid me in my walk of love and obedience. I can see the seeds that they have sown in my life. My understanding of the Way, my knowledge of Your Word, and even my foundational beliefs have been shaped by them. I am who I am because of who You have sent into my life!
Show me today how I might honor them, be a blessing to them, and hold them in high esteem. I so love them and what You have done in my life through them. Thank You for sending them my way, and using them to make me who I am today. Through them I can see Christ clearer and love Him deeper. Whether I agree with them or not, their seeds are sown and their fruit is real. Indeed, my life is better because You have joined my spirit with theirs. Thank You for touching my life through them. Amen.