Recently I came across a journal entry from January, 2005.
I talked about some of the goals I had for the year and my progress and lack thereof towards meeting them. I shared some current frustrations I was having in ministry. I then asked God to help me be more disciplined.
Then I read the last sentence of that day’s journal.
I wrote, “God, at 41 years of age, some days it feels that I’m not accomplishing anything.”
Wow!
Looking back at my life now, I’m sure it was a one day “pity party”. Yes, even pastors have those.
The reason I’m certain it was, is because that was during a season when eleven core families were meeting regularly in our living room, preparing to launch a church. That would be our second plant, and this one would go on to be one of the fastest growing churches in the country and, even today, is accomplishing more than we ever dreamed possible for them as a church.
I don’t share this to bring attention to myself or our accomplishments. And, I wouldn’t suggest a church needs to grow at that pace to be successful. God may use you, as leader, in completely different ways than He has ever used me. God has a unique plan for every person’s life. I share my story because it points to an important principle in ministry which is true for all of us. I’ve seen it so many times. I wish I had a journal entry for each season.
We seldom see the good God is doing through us as we are doing it.
In fact, sometimes it can be months or years after our obedience before we realize the good God was allowing us to be a part of leading.
And, I’m not sure we’d be as successful – in God’s eyes – if we did.
Walking in the unknown keeps us humble. It keeps us in prayer.
And, best of all, it keeps us desperate for God’s hand to be upon us. It truly becomes His work and not our own.
Are you in the middle of a stressful season of ministry or life? Are you wondering if any of your efforts are making a difference?
I’m not suggesting you may not need some people speaking into your life. You may not be able to see the good you’re doing, but don’t falsely assume the silence of God is the approval of God either. Allow others to speak into your life. Remain teachable. Make sure you’re solid on God’s plan, but hold your own plans loosely. Others may have better ideas than you.
But, if you are striving to be obedient to God’s will as much as you know how, then stand firm. I’m praying He allows you to see some fruit – soon – from your labor, as you continue to trust Him. But, until then don’t give up! Stay tuned!
God is always up to things we can’t even imagine.
God is using you, Mighty Warrior! (Judges 6:12)
You simply are having to walk by faith. Faith walking is never for sissies, but always rewarded by God!
Pastor Ron! Thanks for the perspective. As I read this post, I am reminded of the words of Thomas Sutcliffe Mort (a 19th century Australian industrialist)
"In the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins – not through strength but through perseverance."
Great words.
I needed this word as well. Over the past few months, work life has been difficult. I've noticed a dramatic change in the people at work. As I walk the corridors and stairwells, moving from meeting to meeting, I've noticed a heaviness that people have on their faces. More and more colleagues are sharing that they feel anxious and uncertain. It's palpable. I've been tempted to flee via leaving the company, but I can't shake the impression that God wants me here for such a time as this. Therefore, I'm staying and will fight the good fight of faith. Paraphrasing the words of Hadassah (Ester): "I will stand before the king and plead the cause of my people and if I perish, I perish."
Praying for you
This was just what I needed. I host a weekly Christian radio program, and lately I've been wondering, is anyone listening? Am I working toward anything worthwhile? Is anyone's life being impacted? Sew, water, feed, and let God give the increase. That's all we can do 🙂
Thanks for the encouragement.
I hosted a Christian show on a local AM station for 17 years. The problem was that the ratings system wasn't in our small market. I always wondered if it made a difference. It took several years before I realized just how much difference it was making. People were just silent about it for a season. I think that was God's way of building my faith and confidence in Him rather than in myself.God bless
Twitter: eccle0412
says:
A new foster child and his adopted siblings, 13, 16, 17…plus 2 bio 20 and 22 kids in and out of house. I needed to hear this. Going against the tide of the world (screens and stuff) in challenging circumstances where ministry lives 24/7 with. I am desperately dependent!
Chosen for this.
Praying for you!
Twitter: danieldossband
says:
That was a fun ride. Great article too btw.
Thanks dude. Love ya!