Don't sweat the small stuff

1 Peter 5:1-11 (Complete Jewish Bible)

1Therefore, I urge the congregation leaders among you, as a fellow-leader and witness to the Messiah's sufferings, as well as a sharer in the glory to be revealed:2shepherd the flock of God that is in your care, exercising oversight not out of constraint, but willingly, as God wants; and not out of a desire for dishonest gain, but with enthusiasm;3also not as machers domineering over those in your care, but as people who become examples to the flock.4Then, when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive glory as your unfading crown.5Likewise, you who are less experienced, submit to leaders. Further, all of you should clothe yourselves in humility toward one another, because God opposes the arrogant, but to the humble he gives grace.6Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that at the right time he may lift you up.7Throw all your anxieties upon him, because he cares about you.8Stay sober, stay alert! Your enemy, the Adversary, stalks about like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.9Stand against him, firm in your trust, knowing that your brothers throughout the world are going through the same kinds of suffering.10You will have to suffer only a little while; after that, God, who is full of grace, the one who called you to his eternal glory in union with the Messiah, will himself restore, establish and strengthen you and make you firm.11To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 5:1-11 (The Message)

1I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it's like to be a leader, in on Christ's sufferings as well as the coming glory.2Here's my concern: that you care for God's flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to, but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously.[3Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way.4When God, who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with his rule, he'll see that you've done it right and commend you lavishly.5And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for - God has had it with the proud, But takes delight in just plain people.6So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you; he'll promote you at the right time.7Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.8Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping.9Keep your guard up. You're not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith.10The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before this generous God who has great plans for us in Christ - eternal and glorious plans they are! - will have you put together and on your feet for good.11He gets the last word; yes, he does.