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Guiding People into What Truly Matters in Life

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In serving one another, our role, regardless of position, is to GUIDE people.  We serve as facilitators or coaches, working in cooperation with God, guiding people to what really matters.

Leaders guide people in living out God’s will.  They should understand that it isn’t about telling people what to do, or controlling them, but serving in ways that bring people under Christ’s headship. (Matt. 20:25-28)

Bible teachers guide people into an understanding of God’s Word.  They should realize that the Holy Spirit is the real teacher. (Jn. 14:26; 16:13)  Whether teaching formally in the classroom or through informal conversation during transitions, while working on projects, before or after class, the teacher’s objective is to point people to God and His Word, not their own thoughts or opinions.

Shepherds (includes pastors, elders, parents, disciplers, etc.) guide people into Christ-likeness.  They should know that they can’t actually change people but they can take them to the Chief Shepherd who provides all they need and brings growth.  They can be example to the flock.  (1 Cor. 3:4-7; 1 Pet. 5:2-3)

People helpers guide people to a compassionate God who deeply loves them enough to send His Son to die for their sins.  They should remember that their task isn’t merely to “fix” problems but to fulfill the Great Commission by guiding people to the Source of these demonstrations of love.  (Matt. 28:19-20)

An Acrostic to Help Us in Guiding People to What Really Matters

Being a guide implies a destination to which you take people.  Consider taking people in the following directions:

God Himself
(to come into a relationship with a God who loves them)
Understanding of God’s Word
(to know God’s heart & ways as communicated in the Bible)
Intentional Living
(to obey God’s Word by fulfilling the Great Commandments to love God and others)
Devotion to Prayer
(to live life communing with and trusting in a Sovereign God)
Engagement in Serving Others
(to cooperate with God in fulfilling His mission)
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4 Replies to “Guiding People into What Truly Matters in Life”

  1. Awesome, on-point article! It seems that many of us have lost focus of these simple truths. We are never to control–or (lazily) allow to be controlled by men. Also, we MUST remember (and allow) the Holy Spirit is the real Teacher, not us; we can’t force people to follow our own rules and regulations based on personal preferences. The Holy Spirit knows how to teach–lovingly and compassionately–and if it is indeed important to God, He will “teach” it and cause the change to happen in the lives of His people. There is too much (supposed) human ownership of God’s people. We need to stick to the Word of God–and only His Word–not our ideas of what His Word says, or our own likes and dislikes (that we teach as the final law). Thanks–the sentiments of my heart!!!

    • Thanks for commenting, Lisa. When God’s authority or place in people’s lives is usurped by us mere mortals, it is like saying we know better than Him, which is quite absurd. We all do need to be on guard so as not to try to take the Spirit’s role in people’s lives. It can happen subtly and start with good intentions … although, sometimes, as I’m sure you’ve seen, it is anything but subtle. You gave the solution when you wrote “We need to stick to the Word of God–and only His Word–not our ideas of what His Word says…”

  2. This is nothing but the truth that each leaders and Pastors need to know and follow by all cost even in to its fullness. Thank you sir for reminding us this…..
    But sir, can you help me to prepare something on ‘the wise worship Jesus’ Mtt.2.11

    • You are welcome, Adesola Paul. I am sorry but we do not have anything developed based on that verse. Perhaps you will find something useful at a sermon outline site like this: SermonCentral

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