“Oh man, I’m so worried about it.”
“But your not supposed to worry.”
“But I’m worried.”
“But your supposed to trust, and rely on God.”
“I know, your right, I’ll do that.”
And I’m good for about 15 minutes…till it comes up again and the conversation repeats itself in my inmost being. Then, I worry.
I don’t know about anyone else in ministry, but that’s about the way my heart talks with itself when difficult thoughts come up. Those times where I am at the top of my game, are the times where I let the trust win. The times where I fall apart are where I let my stomach turn to knots.
In ministry, there seems to be so many week spots to see and think about.
There are people week spots in the church.
There are talent week spots in the church.
There are faith week spots in the church.
There are commitment week spots in the church.
There are cultural week spots in the church.
There are relationship week spots in the church.
There are leadership week spots in the church.
Then, there are “My” week spots that i bring into the church.
Sitting in leadership, along side this unruly bunch called the church…I see the task God gives us and have that conversation.
“Oh man…how are “we” going to reach people for Jesus in this community before they are lost? How are we going to attract them? How are we going to lead and disciple them?”
It’s a project larger than us. It’s a task out of our league. It’s a daunting thought if it were left up to my talent, my ability, and the talent and ability of this church.” Good thing it’s not.
Preaching through the book of Exodus this year has really helped me learn that lesson. I have seen, as God redeemed the people of Israel by his power. I have seen, How He sustained and provided by His power. I have seen how He created them to be His people and His special treasure by His power. And I have been reminded that my part in it…is to do my best to be obedient, to trust in His presence, to rest in His Power, and He will do His part.
He will redeem us. He will seek and find through us. He will grow His church. He will carry us.
In Matthew 16:18 (NIV) it says,
“I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”
In Exodus 19:4 (NIV) it says,
“‘You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself.”
