An elders must always keep before his mind’s eye that one day he will be challenged with the question, “how did the saints fare on my watch?” (Ez 3:16-21). What a responsibility! The assumption of Hebrews 13:17 is that elders work with a keen sense that this accounting awaits them, so they look after you as conscientiously and wisely as they would their own family.
Considering the weight of this responsibility, the church is called upon to make their leader’s work a joy and great advantage to all. How can you as a church member bring joy to your elders? Consider these ten ways:
1) Your elders rejoice as you articulate a clear and sincere profession of faith. (1 Thess 2:19-20, Philp 1:3-6)
2) Your elders rejoice as they see you walking in obedience, living a life consistent with your profession (3 Jo 3-4)
3) Your elders rejoice as they see you pursuing the unity of the body (Phil 2:1-2)
4) Your elders’ rejoice as they know of your prayers for them (2 Cor 1:10-11)
5) Your elders’ rejoice as you express your love and dependability to them (2 Cor 7:5-7)
6) Your Elders rejoice as you voluntarily seek their counsel and direction
7) Your Elders rejoice as you receive their reproof with gratefulness (Heb 12:5-6)
8) Your elders rejoice as you believe the best about them (1 Tim 5:19).
9) Your Elders rejoice as you work alongside them in ministry (Philp 1:3-5)
10) Your Elders rejoice when they know that you care about their needs (1 Tim 5:17-18)
