Hebrews 13:17 Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.
 
TO be a leader in the church is often a challenge for several reasons. One is the great responsibility to guide people into a life with Jesus. For example, the Spirit gives caution to teachers because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly (James 3:1) Jesus warned the apostles, “On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles.” (Matthew 10:18) Acts testifies to the apostles’ arrests and Stephen’s and James’ martyrdom. When Jesus called Peter to lead the church with, “Feed my sheep.” (John 21:18) He also told Peter, “I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.”19 Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. (John 21:18-19) And Paul wrote of opposition from the churches in Corinth and Ephesus.
   From the outside and inside, church leaders are subject to rebellion, persecution and disobedience.
   Hebrews has emphasized Jesus’ supremacy over all things on earth and in heaven. The writer’s point here is to understand Jesus appoints church leaders for the good of his church. And the church is to follow its leader.
   Of course that does not mean you follow an apostate leader who denies Jesus and his gospel. But there have been and are many devoted people raised to lead Jesus’ church. God’s Holy Word says we must follow them, not limit them or redirect them, but follow them in righteous obedience. That means you understand God has placed your church leaders into their positions of authority. We should respect them with an understanding that God is directing his church, and we are not.
   Obeying and respecting your leaders gives them confidence and encouragement to work well. Indeed, it is a joy for the church when its leaders find pleasure and fulfillment in their work. A burdened pastor, teacher, elder or deacon will become a burden to the church.
   Work, then, in cooperation. Find encouraging words to speak often to your leaders. Help them know God is guiding them. Pray for them often. It’s impossible to oppose someone when you pray for them. You can often resolve disagreements with honest conversations and the Bible’s guidelines for effective, loving relationships.
   Remember, God has called church leaders to a great responsibility. Be a responsible Christian to help your leaders fulfill their calling.
   

Hebrews 13:15-16 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess his name. 16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
 
THE Jews believed that when the Messiah came, all the blood sacrifices would end. The only remaining sacrifice would be the sacrifice of praise. A sacrifice of praise is not a specific action, but it is a lifestyle to worship God. Your salvation bears the fruit of lips that confess his name. Your daily life is a praise response to what God has done, is doing and will do for you and the church through Jesus, the Messiah. 
   The apostle Paul defines this sacrifice in Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship. 2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.
   To offer a living sacrifice is to commit your life to God’s will. When you set your mind on God, your purpose is to “glorify God and to enjoy him forever” (Westminster Confession). Live in the blessings of your salvation. Live as if Jesus has saved you from eternal torment because he has!
   Yes, continually praising Jesus marks a disciple’s life. Here are some reasons we praise Jesus: 1) His splendor and majesty 2) He gives us salvation. 3) He bears our burdens. 4) He hears our prayers. 5) He gives us his strength. 6) His marvelous deeds heals our wounds. 7) He guides us on the pathway of truth. 8) His compassion is never ending. 9) His righteousness Keeps us from sin. 10) His enduring love lasts forever. 11) His enduring faithfulness never forsakes us. 12) His comfort gives us rest. 13) His wisdom teaches us how to love one another. 14) His spiritual blessings awaken our hearts to God. 15) he forgives our sins. (From Life Application Bible Commentary) Can you think of others? 
           Praising God is worshiping God. Your worship style is not defined by your preferences in the elements of a church service. But your worship style is revealed in your character. The Holy Spirit has renewed your mind to reveal what is right and good about God. You are set apart into this goodness. Ancient rituals do not restrict your faith. Nor do the world’s standards define your truth. Instead, true worship releases you into the opportunity to lovingly honor the Holy One of Heaven with thanksgiving and praise.