The OX: HOW Is He?
Good Day and welcome to your Kingdom Connection for March- Week 3- Wednesday! My prayer is that those of you have an ox, those of you who need an ox and even those of who did not desire an ox are getting a better understanding of the importance and value of this gift Christ has given us. Many times we look at the Ox/Leader as just a man and on top of that a man with many faults. Ox, while hand selected by God are scrutinized, disdained and rendered useless and pointless in the world AND within the church. This is the work of the enemy for he understands the effect of smiting the shepherd and the flock will scatter. The flock is left defenseless and senseless which make them the perfect prey for Satan. We cannot become who we are in God without our OX! Today let's look at 3 Primary characteristics of our Leaders:
1. Strong
Accomplishing a task requires a certain amount of strength. When people are involved, it goes to another level. It is no easy feat to govern the lives others, much less adults which is why those of us who spiritual should carry a high regard for the OX, God has placed in our lives. They are the individuals that God has given to watch over our souls
Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.
Hebrews 13:17 (NASB)
If you will be honest, when you are disciplining yourself it takes a great amount of strength. When we discipline our children it requires a great amount of strength, which is why many children go undisciplined. But the OX God has given us is to hold us accountable to obeying the Word of God and living in the will of God. This means when we step out of line, become carnal, or try to disengage our faith, rebukes and corrections must come! They come across the pulpit corporately and depending on your level of membership, they come individually. The Bible tells us that if we be without correction then we are BASTARDS! Our Ox is supposed to address ungodly, unholy, and "unscriptural" matters in our lives. This should never be taken as a personal attack. They are here to prevent mistakes and mishaps in our walk. It is God that has placed us on their heart. It is God that has allowed the matter to come to light and ultimately it is God that is requiring the transformation. We must allow our Ox the freedom to be strong and address matters and never reduce them to passive carnal teachers that only soothe itching ears!
2. Spiritual
If you have a leader, it is your responsibility to know that he/she is spiritual. You must believe in their spiritual regeneration, that they are connected to God and that they have been sent by God to lead you. When we keep this in mind, receiving their directions and corrections keeps us on track with God and the