When done properly, the toughest job in the Church is that of an elder.  It's tough because of the responsibility that it entails.  It's tough because of the accountability it requires.  It's tough because of the misunderstandings associated with it.  Many brethren do not know what elders do, & so their work is often misrepresented.  Listen to prayers for elders, which often sound something like, “Be with the elders in the decisions that they make.” Too often elders are viewed as "the decision-makers,” as seen also in the complaints brethren make about “the decision that the elders made.” While elders certainly do make decisions (often very important ones), their responsibility is so much greater & eternally significant -- than just that !!!

   It is time for elders everywhere to step beyond the role of being mere “decision-makers” in order to more fully become what God intended them to be!

God’s elders are like Moses, who was willing to give himself & his own soul for the people of God!  God’s elders are like Jethro, who understood the need to delegate tasks to trusted individuals!  God’s elders are like David, who never lost sight of the importance of being among the sheep as a shepherd!  God’s elders are like Eli, who guided a young man in becoming a servant of God!  God’s elders are like Gideon, who went to battle with his men, rather than sending them out on their own!  God’s elders are like Elisha, who made special efforts on behalf of a widow!  God’s elders are like Ezra, who helped God’s people to know & understand His Word!  God’s elders are like Nehemiah, who helped God’s people to trust in the Lord & to see His hand at work in their success!  God’s elders are like the Tekoite nobles, who personally put their shoulders to the work!  God’s elders are like Jeremiah, who called for adherence to God's Word!  God’s elders are like Daniel, who spent much time in private prayer!  God’s elders are like Paul, who focused significant energy on strengthening the souls of the disciples!  God’s elders are like Barnabas, who sought opportunities to encourage!  God’s elders are like the Ephesian elders, who openly loved gospel preachers & gospel  preaching! God’s elders are like Philemon, who opened his home to the Church!  God’s        elders are like the author of Hebrews, who integrated himself with his readers by saying, “Let us!”  God’s elders are like Peter, who encouraged his fellow elders in their service!  God’s elders are like Jesus, who knows His sheep by name & they know Him!

   It's too easy to fall into the mold of what others think an elder should be or to mimic the style of previous elders.  Churches everywhere are in need of those who will be the elders that God designed for them to be!  It is time!

Original Article By: David Sproule