Where humility grows, community flows. This is one key lesson of 1 Peter 5. As those who are “born again” (1:3), Christians now belong to God’s family. To get this point across, Peter draws on the metaphor of a shepherd and a flock of sheep. Everyone knows that sheep tend to flock together, and the same should be true of God’s people. With all our differences, it may seem easier to stay isolated, but we need one another. Yes, community life always presents challenges, but with humble attitudes we can make it work! Peter’s exhortation is first to the shepherds, then to the whole flock. Spiritual leaders are not immune from temptation, and three are highlighted here. Loss of vision results from doing the job out of a sense of obligation. God is looking for willing servants who are delighted to invest their lives in the care of His flock. Lack of contentment is also a danger, especially for those who earn their living through gospel work. It’s not wrong to receive the paycheck, but those who are preoccupied with what they are receiving for their labor will not last long in ministry. Love of power is another sign that someone is unprepared for spiritual leadership. God has given authority for elders to govern the church, but those who enjoy dominating others are not qualified for the role. Humble leaders will set the pace by their godly example, and each will be rewarded at the return of Jesus Christ, “the chief Shepherd” (v 1-4). But it’s not just the shepherds who are called to be humble. Everyone in the flock should seek to display this attractive quality. Young men are specifically reminded to be submissive to those in authority. And all are reminded that humility is a most fitting garment to wear, since God stands in the way of the proud, but deals graciously with those who are humble. It all begins with our submission to God, realizing that He is truly in control, directing our lives. He cares about our cares, and He will lift us up—in His time, as He sees fit. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God” (v 5-7). It would be a grave mistake to think that humility means passivity, or that trusting God means there is no need for vigilance. We have a fierce enemy who seeks to destroy our faith. Like a roaring lion, he would like to chew us up and swallow us! So we must be alert, resisting the devil and standing firm in our faith, with eyes on our Deliverer. The lion may roar, but the Lord reigns! God has dominion over the devil, and the outcome of the battle is not in doubt. You may endure suffering for “a little while,” but God has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, and He is going to get you there (v 8-14). For further meditation: