Lead The Way

“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them…being examples to the flock.” 1 Peter 5:2-3

Every time God would command the Israelites to move to a new territory, He would have the tribe of Judah (which means praise) go first. Judah would lead the people forward in victory. In the church, the tribe of Judah would be the worship leaders. The people on the stage that everybody sees. 

But what about that pitiful twelfth tribe? The one at the very end of the line? They had to be in the back of the line to help those who were weak, feeble, and couldn’t handle the heavy demands of the journey. This twelfth tribe of Dan could represent the parents, grandparents, youth, and children’s leaders who always faithfully serve behind the scenes.

Thank God for the people in “the back of the line.” They are important for molding the next generation. Like a potter, your job is to take the clay, smooth out the lumps, put it on the wheel, and begin to mold it into a vessel that can be used. It is so vital to have people who will encourage our children and youth and pour into their lives. Remind them that they are still loved by God when they mess up. Teach them how to be worshippers, church lovers, and men and women of character. Mentor them in the areas of their strengths so they can gain the confidence to take their place as leaders one day. 

Parents, kids need fewer people telling them what they can’t do and more people reminding them of who they are in Christ. If you speak to the fool in your child, the fool will stand up. If you speak to the king in your child, the king will stand up. When you show them that you believe in them, God will raise them to do things you could never do. This next generation needs potters. They need people to shape their mentality, demonstrate the right spirit, and mold their way of seeing things. 

Get involved in your child’s life. Ask them who their friends are and check their phones. Let them serve with you at an outreach or take them on a mission trip. If you work in “the tribe of Dan,” consider it a high honor. You may not be in the limelight but are making a lasting impact. Jesus said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these…you did for me.” Matthew 25:40

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