To the
elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s
sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be
shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not
because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not
pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording
it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when
the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never
fade away. 1 Peter 5:1-4
Being
a pastor is a calling from God that you would know clearly on your heart that
God has spoken to you.
There
are also some characteristics of a pastor (or shepherd) that Peter talked about
that still apply today.
1.
You are an elder,
meaning you have some experience in the Christian life.
2.
You may have
experience in suffering in some way.
3.
You want to make sure
people are okay and going in the right direction.
4.
You don’t have to be a
pastor, but you are willing, because God wants you to be.
5.
You’re not in it for
any dishonest gain or financial reward.
6.
You are eager to
serve.
7.
You don’t have to be
the boss, in charge, and have others respect you.
8.
You feel you could be
a worthy example.
9.
You want to please
God.
If you can answer “yes” to these
characteristics, God may be calling you to be a pastor.