KneEmail - a devotional by Mike Benson associated with Forthright Magazine
Toolbox 3
IN EVERY ELDER'S toolbox...
There should be a STIFF BACK BRACE
Though the work of an elder can be a wonderful experience, it can also be a discouraging one. To borrow a statement from Franklin Camp, "No men on earth have a graver responsibility than elders." With that responsibility comes some criticism. It never ceases to amaze me how some members of a local congregation will constantly criticize the eldership. If the elders move in one direction to facilitate spiritual and numeric growth (maintaining soundness of course), there is always someone playing the detractor. That same person will complain to the elders, and to anyone who will listen, until one of two things happen -- the elders give in, or the disgruntled member goes to another congregation.
We need leaders in the church today who have strong backbones and refuse to give in to the minority. (Neil Richey)
KneEmail: "Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct" (Heb. 13:7; cf. 13:17, 24; 1 Tim. 3:5; 5:17).