Here's a repost of our last two Centurion e-newsletters/Bible studies:
(1) Iron Sharpens Iron
and
(2) Sheepdogs on the Wall
Blessings
MC
Showing posts with label Sheepdogs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sheepdogs. Show all posts
Sunday, March 12, 2017
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
From Sheepdog to Shepherd
Fellow Servant-Warriors:
Hope this week’s newsletter finds you standing firm on the “Rock” that is the perfect Warrior, Chief and Savior – Jesus Christ.
We had a great time of fellowship, prayer and profession-relevant, TACTICAL Bible study at last week’s warrior gathering here in Denver (our local FCPO chapter meeting). Our study looked at the analogies of “sheep, sheepdogs, shepherds and wolves,” and is entitled, "From Sheepdogs to Shepherds." For all of our readers throughout the US, Canada and many countries world-wide, I’ve posted a detailed recap (see below) that can serve as a great resource for you to share with others and in your own personal time with the Lord – enjoy.
This week I’ll ask the question, “Are you COVERED?” In law enforcement circles we routinely talk about the tactics of cover and concealment, but did you know that they also have a powerful spiritual application? Please join us if you can on Thursday as we explore this important concept together -- and know that I’ll once again post a detailed recap in next week’s newsletter for all our readers who reside outside Colorado’s Front Range.
COMMUNION:
In addition to the “Covered” Bible study, we will also be sharing communion during this Thursday’s (11/18) local cop-fellowship chapter meeting. Please join us – and bring your spouses if you can (always welcome).
BAPTISM:
This coming January I will be conducting a baptism service for all officers and their spouses who have come to Christ but have yet to be baptized (no, infant baptism does not count – not a biblical concept). While not essential for salvation, baptism is in fact an act of obedience while at the same time a joyous occasion for both the believer and his family/friends. If this applies to you, please join us Thursday as we will be setting the date/time for this important and joyous act of obedience.
PRAYER REQUESTS & MEETING SCHEDULE:
New prayer requests and our local FCPO chapter meeting schedule have been posted here on our website (see next post below). However, we’ve received some disturbing news that is urgent enough to post again here with the newsletter: Please pray for the family and colleagues of Green County (GA) S.O. Chief Deputy Kevin Roberts who was shot and killed by a convicted felon who came to his home Sunday morning (see http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/147492-chief-deputy-shot-killed-in-own-home-by-suicidal-felon for the story and to leave your condolences). Let's stay vigilant folks -- especially at home!
Tulsa PD Capt. Travis Yates is a great friend and has once again sent out an excellent post through his Ten-Four Ministries outreach. This week’s Centurion Papers email provided yet another gem in the form of a short video that says volumes in less than 3 minutes. Check it out at http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2010/11/believe.html.
MESSAGE RECAP!
Anyone who has been following our ministry knows that I’m a huge fan of Lt. Col. Dave Grossman – a strong believer – and his “…Sheep, Wolves and Sheepdogs” analogy (see http://www.killology.com/sheep_dog.htm). Can the concept be applied biblically? Once we understand that God is calling the sheepdog to evolve into a true shepherd – a true leader – the answer is a resounding "YES!" Sheepdogs by nature serve under the direction of the shepherd. Sheepdogs drive and "cover" the sheep from behind -- a herding "rear guard" if you will. However, God is calling each of us to something more – to lead (serve and protect) from the FRONT. Our Lord’s model for this servant-leader is the humble but appropriately dangerous shepherd.
(1) Real sheepdogs in the Bible: Job 30:1
(2) Leadership training: In Exodus 3 we learn that Moses spent forty years serving as a shepherd for his father-in-law -- effectively training to lead, serve and protect God’s people.
(3) A warrior’s training and weapons: 1 Samuel 17:15-52 reveals that God used David’s shepherd assignment to prepare him to defeat a giant "wolf" and lead Israel. Note too that God used a shepherd’s simple but effective weapons – staff (a "big stick"), sling and stones – to defeat Goliath, and that David gave proper credit to the One who truly fought the battle for him -- and for us. II Samuel 23:20-21 provides a further example: one of David’s Mighty Men – Benaiah – also used a staff to defeat a very formidable Egyptian warrior.
(4) Psalm 23 reveals Yahweh-Rohi, The Lord our Shepherd. We also see this method and position of leadership in Psalm 78:52 and Psalm 80:1.
(5) Acts 20:28-31 expands further on the wolf, sheep, sheepdog and shepherd concept.
Calvary South Denver Senior Pastor Gino Geraci, teaching a servant-leadership lesson from 1 Peter 5:1-4, spoke about a group that spent $500,000 (!) to find out what folks really wanted in a pastor. The top responses were:
(1) Humility
(2) Honesty
(3) Integrity
(4) Some gift or CALLING on their lives that makes it evident that they were really called by God.
I find it quite interesting that the same qualities folks seek in a pastor are also the very ones that are at the top of the list for peace officers! Gino further pointed out that it is Jesus who is the model for true servant-leadership and that Christ – the world’s greatest cop – used the shepherd to illustrate that leadership (he is of course the Great Shepherd). Pastor Geraci also noted that shepherds lead by consent rather than by compulsion (the shepherd’s MOTIVE) and that true leadership is never a dictatorship (the shepherd’s MANNER).
Finally, take the time to review Christ’s ultimate example of servant-leadership as detailed in John 13:1-17. What kind of leader are you? Are you willing to answer His call for you “take a towel" and lead from the front with a servant’s heart?
I concluded our study by sharing a short article written by Michael Youssef entitled “Sheep Among Wolves.” Do you know who your enemy is? Are we allowing the wolf to prowl with impunity among those we’ve sworn to serve and protect? Please take the time to consider Youssef’s thoroughly biblical and law enforcement-relevant position: www.onenewsnow.com/Perspectives/Default.aspx?id=1219512.
Speaking of recognizing the wolf for who he truly is, it is important to note that Islam’s Qur'an (or Koran) contains over 100 verses calling for violence against Christians and Jews. To give just one example, Sura 9:5 says, "Slay the idolaters (anyone not a Muslim) wherever you find them." During a panel discussion last January, retired Army Lt. Colonel Allen West, purportedly a strong Christian who served in Iraq, responded to a Marine who asked the question about how we should answer people who say that terrorists are just following a "warped" version of Islam. The panel consisted of a number of former military personnel who were squirming and fumbling around trying to get out of answering the question. Col. West finally stepped forward (true leadership) to answer the Marine directly and truthfully. Take the time to listen to the words of a Christian warrior who understands the true nature of a wolf that threatens to feast with impunity on the sheep. Notice his straightforward assessment: "This is not a perversion. They are doing exactly what this book (i.e., the Qur'an) says."
It should also be noted that Col. West was just elected to Congress to represent Florida's 22nd congressional district. Click on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkGQmCZjJ0k to understand who this enemy is, and then PRAY for them with your eyes open!
TRAINING Corner:
The following was sent to me by Jason Pearson who got it from Chuck Pruitt via a Missouri Highways Patrol officer. The officer writes, These "Sovereign Citizen" types are in our area. The "Embassy of Heaven" and "Little Pembina Band" are two groups operating in our area that I can think of off the top of my head. The true believers in these groups believe you, as a federal officer, have no jurisdiction or authority over them; that obviously can be a very dangerous situation. Fraud Inspectors in particular are quite likely to encounter these people because they routinely engage in scams to defraud financial institutions and use registered, certified, and other special service mail extensively.
The events depicted in this video occurred in May 2010.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_y-gLm9Hrw
Please make the time to prepare yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually to do what God has called us to do. Stay vigilant and on firm ground under the leadership of our true Commander-in-Chief and perfect Warrior – Jesus Christ.
Hope this week’s newsletter finds you standing firm on the “Rock” that is the perfect Warrior, Chief and Savior – Jesus Christ.
We had a great time of fellowship, prayer and profession-relevant, TACTICAL Bible study at last week’s warrior gathering here in Denver (our local FCPO chapter meeting). Our study looked at the analogies of “sheep, sheepdogs, shepherds and wolves,” and is entitled, "From Sheepdogs to Shepherds." For all of our readers throughout the US, Canada and many countries world-wide, I’ve posted a detailed recap (see below) that can serve as a great resource for you to share with others and in your own personal time with the Lord – enjoy.
This week I’ll ask the question, “Are you COVERED?” In law enforcement circles we routinely talk about the tactics of cover and concealment, but did you know that they also have a powerful spiritual application? Please join us if you can on Thursday as we explore this important concept together -- and know that I’ll once again post a detailed recap in next week’s newsletter for all our readers who reside outside Colorado’s Front Range.
COMMUNION:
In addition to the “Covered” Bible study, we will also be sharing communion during this Thursday’s (11/18) local cop-fellowship chapter meeting. Please join us – and bring your spouses if you can (always welcome).
BAPTISM:
This coming January I will be conducting a baptism service for all officers and their spouses who have come to Christ but have yet to be baptized (no, infant baptism does not count – not a biblical concept). While not essential for salvation, baptism is in fact an act of obedience while at the same time a joyous occasion for both the believer and his family/friends. If this applies to you, please join us Thursday as we will be setting the date/time for this important and joyous act of obedience.
PRAYER REQUESTS & MEETING SCHEDULE:
New prayer requests and our local FCPO chapter meeting schedule have been posted here on our website (see next post below). However, we’ve received some disturbing news that is urgent enough to post again here with the newsletter: Please pray for the family and colleagues of Green County (GA) S.O. Chief Deputy Kevin Roberts who was shot and killed by a convicted felon who came to his home Sunday morning (see http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/147492-chief-deputy-shot-killed-in-own-home-by-suicidal-felon for the story and to leave your condolences). Let's stay vigilant folks -- especially at home!
Tulsa PD Capt. Travis Yates is a great friend and has once again sent out an excellent post through his Ten-Four Ministries outreach. This week’s Centurion Papers email provided yet another gem in the form of a short video that says volumes in less than 3 minutes. Check it out at http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2010/11/believe.html.
MESSAGE RECAP!
Anyone who has been following our ministry knows that I’m a huge fan of Lt. Col. Dave Grossman – a strong believer – and his “…Sheep, Wolves and Sheepdogs” analogy (see http://www.killology.com/sheep_dog.htm). Can the concept be applied biblically? Once we understand that God is calling the sheepdog to evolve into a true shepherd – a true leader – the answer is a resounding "YES!" Sheepdogs by nature serve under the direction of the shepherd. Sheepdogs drive and "cover" the sheep from behind -- a herding "rear guard" if you will. However, God is calling each of us to something more – to lead (serve and protect) from the FRONT. Our Lord’s model for this servant-leader is the humble but appropriately dangerous shepherd.
(1) Real sheepdogs in the Bible: Job 30:1
(2) Leadership training: In Exodus 3 we learn that Moses spent forty years serving as a shepherd for his father-in-law -- effectively training to lead, serve and protect God’s people.
(3) A warrior’s training and weapons: 1 Samuel 17:15-52 reveals that God used David’s shepherd assignment to prepare him to defeat a giant "wolf" and lead Israel. Note too that God used a shepherd’s simple but effective weapons – staff (a "big stick"), sling and stones – to defeat Goliath, and that David gave proper credit to the One who truly fought the battle for him -- and for us. II Samuel 23:20-21 provides a further example: one of David’s Mighty Men – Benaiah – also used a staff to defeat a very formidable Egyptian warrior.
(4) Psalm 23 reveals Yahweh-Rohi, The Lord our Shepherd. We also see this method and position of leadership in Psalm 78:52 and Psalm 80:1.
(5) Acts 20:28-31 expands further on the wolf, sheep, sheepdog and shepherd concept.
Calvary South Denver Senior Pastor Gino Geraci, teaching a servant-leadership lesson from 1 Peter 5:1-4, spoke about a group that spent $500,000 (!) to find out what folks really wanted in a pastor. The top responses were:
(1) Humility
(2) Honesty
(3) Integrity
(4) Some gift or CALLING on their lives that makes it evident that they were really called by God.
I find it quite interesting that the same qualities folks seek in a pastor are also the very ones that are at the top of the list for peace officers! Gino further pointed out that it is Jesus who is the model for true servant-leadership and that Christ – the world’s greatest cop – used the shepherd to illustrate that leadership (he is of course the Great Shepherd). Pastor Geraci also noted that shepherds lead by consent rather than by compulsion (the shepherd’s MOTIVE) and that true leadership is never a dictatorship (the shepherd’s MANNER).
Finally, take the time to review Christ’s ultimate example of servant-leadership as detailed in John 13:1-17. What kind of leader are you? Are you willing to answer His call for you “take a towel" and lead from the front with a servant’s heart?
I concluded our study by sharing a short article written by Michael Youssef entitled “Sheep Among Wolves.” Do you know who your enemy is? Are we allowing the wolf to prowl with impunity among those we’ve sworn to serve and protect? Please take the time to consider Youssef’s thoroughly biblical and law enforcement-relevant position: www.onenewsnow.com/Perspectives/Default.aspx?id=1219512.
Speaking of recognizing the wolf for who he truly is, it is important to note that Islam’s Qur'an (or Koran) contains over 100 verses calling for violence against Christians and Jews. To give just one example, Sura 9:5 says, "Slay the idolaters (anyone not a Muslim) wherever you find them." During a panel discussion last January, retired Army Lt. Colonel Allen West, purportedly a strong Christian who served in Iraq, responded to a Marine who asked the question about how we should answer people who say that terrorists are just following a "warped" version of Islam. The panel consisted of a number of former military personnel who were squirming and fumbling around trying to get out of answering the question. Col. West finally stepped forward (true leadership) to answer the Marine directly and truthfully. Take the time to listen to the words of a Christian warrior who understands the true nature of a wolf that threatens to feast with impunity on the sheep. Notice his straightforward assessment: "This is not a perversion. They are doing exactly what this book (i.e., the Qur'an) says."
It should also be noted that Col. West was just elected to Congress to represent Florida's 22nd congressional district. Click on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkGQmCZjJ0k to understand who this enemy is, and then PRAY for them with your eyes open!
TRAINING Corner:
The following was sent to me by Jason Pearson who got it from Chuck Pruitt via a Missouri Highways Patrol officer. The officer writes, These "Sovereign Citizen" types are in our area. The "Embassy of Heaven" and "Little Pembina Band" are two groups operating in our area that I can think of off the top of my head. The true believers in these groups believe you, as a federal officer, have no jurisdiction or authority over them; that obviously can be a very dangerous situation. Fraud Inspectors in particular are quite likely to encounter these people because they routinely engage in scams to defraud financial institutions and use registered, certified, and other special service mail extensively.
The events depicted in this video occurred in May 2010.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_y-gLm9Hrw
Please make the time to prepare yourself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually to do what God has called us to do. Stay vigilant and on firm ground under the leadership of our true Commander-in-Chief and perfect Warrior – Jesus Christ.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Thou Shalt Not Kill! Huh??
Fellow Servant-Warriors (aka officers, military, sheepdogs, and others of that ilk) and Supporters:
We had outstanding attendance both at last Thursday’s “cop church” Centurion Ministry/FCPO chapter meeting AND at our First Annual Fall Potluck on Saturday. Interestingly, the presence of an excess of great food seems to be key to a big turnout…hmm. Seriously, a great time was had by all and we were blessed to have so many of our “locals” in our home.
We’re meeting as usual this week where we’ll take a fresh look at the oft-misunderstood 6th Commandment – “Thou shalt not kill” (KJV) – particularly as it relates to those of us serving in the armed services (military, law enforcement, etc.). What is the correct translation and understanding of the Hebrew word "kill" as used in this context and how does it relate to our calls as peace officers? Does it even apply to lawful deadly force scenarios? Join us this Thursday, October 28th, and I’ll provide God’s answers…some may very well be surprised. I’ll again provide an in-depth recap in next week’s newsletter and on our website for all those who can’t attend and/or are outside the Denver Metro area – stay tuned!
* MESSAGE RECAP of last week’s profession-relevant Bible study:
Speaking of RECAPs, last week’s study on “A Cop’s Pride” was one that hit home for a great many of us -- myself included. My message could have just been easily entitled “Pride vs. Humility” or most certainly “Pride and Leadership,” and closes this series (part 3) on the subject. Those of you who have been keeping up will remember parts 1 and 2 as recapped in my September 1st and 7th newsletters/posts (click on http://www.thecenturionlawenforcementministry.org/2010/09/samson-cops-story.html and http://www.thecenturionlawenforcementministry.org/2010/09/lets-roll-christian-cops-september-11th.html).
To review, the Book of Proverbs has much to say on the subject of the negative kind of PRIDE. In particular, read Proverbs 6:17; 8:13; 11:2; 13:10; and 16:18. Other significant passages include but are by no means limited to Daniel 4:30-34 and the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector as revealed by our Lord in Luke 18:9-14 --
To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else (as cops are sometimes accused of doing, for example), Jesus told this parable: "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about[a] himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.' "But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' 1"I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."
We also see that pride was Lucifer’s (Satan) downfall as detailed in Isaiah 14:12-14. By contrast, we have the issue of HUMILITY as detailed in 1 Kings 8:58; Psalm 25; Luke 22:27; Col. 1:18; Phil. 2:8; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:2-5 and elsewhere. Clearly, being humble before the Lord minimizes arrogance and keeps a leash on pride.
Moreover, matters of pride and humility are most definitely LEADERSHIP issues (especially in our profession) – see (again) 1 Peter 5:2-5 and Philippians 2:5-11. Jesus said in Luke 12:48, To whom much is given, from him much will be required. In fact, the consequences for those of us in leadership (ALL LEOs) who fail in this regard are often much harsher because of our God-given call, authority and influence. A very powerful and famous pagan king, after learning this important lesson himself, said, Now, I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Daniel 4:37
Make no mistake – the negative kind of pride is SIN! Why? As with Samson, Saul and many others, pride exalts self rather than giving credit to God for the accomplishments and victories He manifests in our lives. Pride is taking the glory that belongs to God alone and keeping it for ourselves -- essentially a form of self-worship. Does that not describe a great many of us serving in law enforcement – including (or perhaps especially) those with given positions of supervisory leadership?
Jesus himself provides the ultimate example of true humility and true servant-leadership when he “took a towel” and washed his disciples’ feet as detailed in John 13:5-17. This is certainly to be central to our call as LEOs and as Christians in general.
The Book of Jeremiah (9:23-24) provides a fitting conclusion to this study: This is what the LORD says: 'Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight.
* More on SAMSON:
As previously announced, I am strongly encouraging our locals and visitors to check out the Tuesday night service (“Tuesday Night Dialogue”) at Calvary South Denver where Pastor Sam Park is teaching an in-depth study on Samson that will resonate strongly with LEOs. In fact, the title of this Tuesday’s (10/26) message is, “Sabotaging God’s Call on Your Life.” Diana and I are serving with Sam most every Tuesday – please join us (quite a few of our “regulars” already attend – even those with a different home church). Those outside of our area can listen to Sam’s recorded (MP3) messages by going to http://www.calvarycsd.org/bible-studies/, click on “Tuesday Night Dialogue,” then scroll down to Download TND Messages Here. Click on “TND Messages” and then select “Judges.” A list of messages will come up – the Samson studies begin with #’s 27 and 28 (and so on) at the bottom.
* More on LEADERSHIP:
Please take a moment to peruse the following secular albeit profound article and – if you dare – pass it on to your colleagues and supervisors (you can always post it on a bulletin board). This should be REQUIRED reading for every law enforcement supervisor and chief: http://www.policeone.com/chiefs-sheriffs/articles/2832337-Want-to-be-a-Leader-Do-a-gut-check-first/.
* TRAINING Articles (short reads but good stuff):
(1) http://www.policeone.com/investigations/articles/2799817-5-myths-about-patrol-officers-and-detectives/.
(2) http://www.policeone.com/chiefs-sheriffs/articles/2800611-7-habits-of-unsuccessful-departments (another “required reading” article).
* The updated PRAYER REQUESTS and our local MEETING SCHEDULE have been posted in the following post here on the website – check ‘em out (pray) – and check back frequently.
* VOTE!!!
Just a friendly yet urgent reminder about the upcoming election. Christians of course need to be voting via a solidly biblical worldview whenever possible. Please take the time to understand the issues and the character of those seeking office – and then vote (while you are still able to).
Finally, this week’s study recap begs me to encourage everyone to learn a powerful lesson from another outstanding servant-leader – Lt. Col. Dave Grossman. In his book On Combat, Dave writes, “Understand that there is nothing morally superior about being a sheepdog; it is just what you choose to be.” (I would assert, “...CALLED by God to be.”)…After the attacks on September 11, 2001, most of the sheep, that is, most citizens in America said, “Thank God I wasn’t on one of those planes.” The sheepdogs, the warriors, said, “Dear God, I wish I could have been on one of those planes. Maybe I could have made a difference.” When you are truly transformed into a warrior and have truly invested yourself into warriorhood, you want to be there. You want to be able to make a difference...”
Click on http://www.killology.com/sheep_dog.htm to read “the rest of the story” or better yet, order the book from Dave’s website and/or purchase books from Dave directly by attending one of his training seminars – the website includes his teaching schedule.
Stay the course and finish strong as we answer God’s call on our lives to lead (serve) and protect.
We had outstanding attendance both at last Thursday’s “cop church” Centurion Ministry/FCPO chapter meeting AND at our First Annual Fall Potluck on Saturday. Interestingly, the presence of an excess of great food seems to be key to a big turnout…hmm. Seriously, a great time was had by all and we were blessed to have so many of our “locals” in our home.
We’re meeting as usual this week where we’ll take a fresh look at the oft-misunderstood 6th Commandment – “Thou shalt not kill” (KJV) – particularly as it relates to those of us serving in the armed services (military, law enforcement, etc.). What is the correct translation and understanding of the Hebrew word "kill" as used in this context and how does it relate to our calls as peace officers? Does it even apply to lawful deadly force scenarios? Join us this Thursday, October 28th, and I’ll provide God’s answers…some may very well be surprised. I’ll again provide an in-depth recap in next week’s newsletter and on our website for all those who can’t attend and/or are outside the Denver Metro area – stay tuned!
* MESSAGE RECAP of last week’s profession-relevant Bible study:
Speaking of RECAPs, last week’s study on “A Cop’s Pride” was one that hit home for a great many of us -- myself included. My message could have just been easily entitled “Pride vs. Humility” or most certainly “Pride and Leadership,” and closes this series (part 3) on the subject. Those of you who have been keeping up will remember parts 1 and 2 as recapped in my September 1st and 7th newsletters/posts (click on http://www.thecenturionlawenforcementministry.org/2010/09/samson-cops-story.html and http://www.thecenturionlawenforcementministry.org/2010/09/lets-roll-christian-cops-september-11th.html).
To review, the Book of Proverbs has much to say on the subject of the negative kind of PRIDE. In particular, read Proverbs 6:17; 8:13; 11:2; 13:10; and 16:18. Other significant passages include but are by no means limited to Daniel 4:30-34 and the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector as revealed by our Lord in Luke 18:9-14 --
To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everybody else (as cops are sometimes accused of doing, for example), Jesus told this parable: "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about[a] himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.' "But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' 1"I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."
We also see that pride was Lucifer’s (Satan) downfall as detailed in Isaiah 14:12-14. By contrast, we have the issue of HUMILITY as detailed in 1 Kings 8:58; Psalm 25; Luke 22:27; Col. 1:18; Phil. 2:8; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:2-5 and elsewhere. Clearly, being humble before the Lord minimizes arrogance and keeps a leash on pride.
Moreover, matters of pride and humility are most definitely LEADERSHIP issues (especially in our profession) – see (again) 1 Peter 5:2-5 and Philippians 2:5-11. Jesus said in Luke 12:48, To whom much is given, from him much will be required. In fact, the consequences for those of us in leadership (ALL LEOs) who fail in this regard are often much harsher because of our God-given call, authority and influence. A very powerful and famous pagan king, after learning this important lesson himself, said, Now, I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble. Daniel 4:37
Make no mistake – the negative kind of pride is SIN! Why? As with Samson, Saul and many others, pride exalts self rather than giving credit to God for the accomplishments and victories He manifests in our lives. Pride is taking the glory that belongs to God alone and keeping it for ourselves -- essentially a form of self-worship. Does that not describe a great many of us serving in law enforcement – including (or perhaps especially) those with given positions of supervisory leadership?
Jesus himself provides the ultimate example of true humility and true servant-leadership when he “took a towel” and washed his disciples’ feet as detailed in John 13:5-17. This is certainly to be central to our call as LEOs and as Christians in general.
The Book of Jeremiah (9:23-24) provides a fitting conclusion to this study: This is what the LORD says: 'Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight.
* More on SAMSON:
As previously announced, I am strongly encouraging our locals and visitors to check out the Tuesday night service (“Tuesday Night Dialogue”) at Calvary South Denver where Pastor Sam Park is teaching an in-depth study on Samson that will resonate strongly with LEOs. In fact, the title of this Tuesday’s (10/26) message is, “Sabotaging God’s Call on Your Life.” Diana and I are serving with Sam most every Tuesday – please join us (quite a few of our “regulars” already attend – even those with a different home church). Those outside of our area can listen to Sam’s recorded (MP3) messages by going to http://www.calvarycsd.org/bible-studies/, click on “Tuesday Night Dialogue,” then scroll down to Download TND Messages Here. Click on “TND Messages” and then select “Judges.” A list of messages will come up – the Samson studies begin with #’s 27 and 28 (and so on) at the bottom.
* More on LEADERSHIP:
Please take a moment to peruse the following secular albeit profound article and – if you dare – pass it on to your colleagues and supervisors (you can always post it on a bulletin board). This should be REQUIRED reading for every law enforcement supervisor and chief: http://www.policeone.com/chiefs-sheriffs/articles/2832337-Want-to-be-a-Leader-Do-a-gut-check-first/.
* TRAINING Articles (short reads but good stuff):
(1) http://www.policeone.com/investigations/articles/2799817-5-myths-about-patrol-officers-and-detectives/.
(2) http://www.policeone.com/chiefs-sheriffs/articles/2800611-7-habits-of-unsuccessful-departments (another “required reading” article).
* The updated PRAYER REQUESTS and our local MEETING SCHEDULE have been posted in the following post here on the website – check ‘em out (pray) – and check back frequently.
* VOTE!!!
Just a friendly yet urgent reminder about the upcoming election. Christians of course need to be voting via a solidly biblical worldview whenever possible. Please take the time to understand the issues and the character of those seeking office – and then vote (while you are still able to).
Finally, this week’s study recap begs me to encourage everyone to learn a powerful lesson from another outstanding servant-leader – Lt. Col. Dave Grossman. In his book On Combat, Dave writes, “Understand that there is nothing morally superior about being a sheepdog; it is just what you choose to be.” (I would assert, “...CALLED by God to be.”)…After the attacks on September 11, 2001, most of the sheep, that is, most citizens in America said, “Thank God I wasn’t on one of those planes.” The sheepdogs, the warriors, said, “Dear God, I wish I could have been on one of those planes. Maybe I could have made a difference.” When you are truly transformed into a warrior and have truly invested yourself into warriorhood, you want to be there. You want to be able to make a difference...”
Click on http://www.killology.com/sheep_dog.htm to read “the rest of the story” or better yet, order the book from Dave’s website and/or purchase books from Dave directly by attending one of his training seminars – the website includes his teaching schedule.
Stay the course and finish strong as we answer God’s call on our lives to lead (serve) and protect.
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