To The Elder, and To The Young.

shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. - 1st Peter 5:2-3 (ESV)

Peter here writes to the elders and encourages them to shepherd the flock. Peter would be the one best to encourage them as he was specifically called by Jesus to shepherd His church. To be an elder is not a duty but rather a lifestyle. You should not shepherd out of compulsion but out of an eager and willing heart. Often this is why we see so much church hurt; it is almost always tied to the lack of shepherding or poor shepherding. Poor shepherding looks a lot like neglect, or domineering and controlling. Thus abusive. It is important for those who would be a spiritual elder, to be a strong leader. While also being eager to love others and guide them through wisdom. If you are a spiritual elder, are you shepherding your flock well? Have you ever identified who your flock is? To those who are not a spiritual elder, have you found a spiritual elder yet? Have you found someone to shepherd you? To walk life with you and pour into you, wisdom, encouragement, and guidance.

Peter also writes to the young. He encourages the young to humble themselves. Do not resist the leading of the elders but rather, walk humbly. Be sober-minded. Meaning do not let anything hinder your ability to think clearly. Thinking clearly: This means if you are young, do not be quick to be passionate about partial knowledge or fancy statements. Do not let anything hinder your ability to listen, process, and apply. To be of a sober mind is to be one who thinks with precision. Not jumping to conclusions, not allowing distractions to cloud you, or letting things alter your ability to process.

Be watchful. The devil is equally as active in this world. There should be a great sense of urgency for spiritual formation. The enemy is seeking to devour and kill, steal, and destroy. This should cause our hearts to seek the lord with an urgency. To grow steadfast, quickly. Discipleship is not comfortable, it is urgent. Resist the devil. Stand firm in the faith.