Acts 6:1-6
“Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.”
Hollywood actors hire people called “fixers” who make sure the actors keep their image. These individuals are paid to do everything behind the scenes from lawsuits to criminal activity. I wonder, if these fixers were not hired, how much would actors have to answer for themselves. As bad as Hollywood is, I am convinced fixers are priceless. Nonetheless, not to the criminal extent of Hollywood, every organization needs people behind the scenes to keep things moving forward.
As a matter of fact, I believe that people who work behind the scenes are the most important people in any organization. Yes, everything rises and falls on leadership. And yes, leaders have to lead well for people to buy in. But thank God for people who are willing to buy in. Not just buy in, but willing to be last so the organization can be successful.
Deacons or servant leaders are those who have the task of making sure the mission continues. If something needs to be done, these people are present. If something is in the way, these people are willing to move it. God blesses His church with individuals and families who will give their lives for the cause of Christ.
I want to be absolutely clear that I am not talking about the person who has a title. I am talking about the individuals who are deacons because they are willing to do whatever it takes. They may have a title, but they only got the title because they are true servants of Christ.
All I can say is, I am so grateful for our deacons. I am also grateful for those who may not have the title but are deacons, servant leaders, and examples of Christ. And we see the results of helping others live and love like Jesus through these faithful servants in the following verse.
v7 “And the word of God continued to increase, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith.”
May that be our results as well!
Use the HEAR method as you spend time with today’s scripture.
Highlight – what words or phrases jump out at you
Explain – what does the passage mean?
Apply – how does the passage intersect with your life today?
Respond – how is God leading you to respond?
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Today's reading - Acts 6:1-6. "I believe that people who work behind the scenes are the most important people in any organization."