For 20 years now, I have had the privilege of serving God as a pastor, with some time in between with transitions. The time has gone so quickly; and it is my desire to enjoy every opportunity God gives me now and in the future to serve in this way. Part of that enjoyment is to learn from the past and to keep learning through my present experiences. If I can learn from those years, and keep an attitude of learning, I believe I can be even more effective for God's glory as I pastor into the future.
These are some of the lessons I have learned; and continue to learn:
Lesson 5: I have learned that everyone needs to be discipled
We normally think of new believers as the ones who need to be discipled; but the truth is, we all need to be. Regardless of our age or level of spiritual development, there is always a next step for us to take toward Christ for God's glory. As growing disciples, we are to be always learning more about Jesus and how to follow Him. Even the Apostle Paul made it clear that he had more growing to do, until He was with Jesus face to face.
This is not as easy, however, as it sounds. Not everyone agrees with this statement, at least in practice. In fact, I'm not sure I really believed this in my early days of ministry, as well as my growing up years. The people that I looked up to, or was taught to look up to - the ones that were considered godly, were the ones who had attended the church the longest, and usually had served in some area of the church for decades. Because of the way they dressed, and talked, and were committed to the ministry of the church, they were seen as mature, godly Christians. Some of them certainly were; and yet they always had more growing to do.
Unfortunately, the idea that once people reached a certain age, or level of respect from others, they were "untouchable", from a discipleship perspective. The only way they would have connection with discipleship is if they were the ones discipling. Additionally unfortunate is that some of those who tried to disciple were not leading others to follow Jesus more closely, but follow their own personal preferences, which they believed were equal to holiness. Of course, this was not always the case, but I have seen it enough in my life and ministry to know that it happens far too often.
So, as a pastor, I figured that it was my job, before God, to make disciples and equip people for ministry. I was to call everyone to follow Jesus, help them take their next steps (as I was taking mine), and help them learn how to help others take their next steps (discipleship). However, what I found is that certain people were, seemingly, "off limits" for discipleship. I don't know if it was my naivety, or foolishness; but I decided that if no one else was going to help them take their next steps, then as one of their pastors and shepherds, I would be willing to. I had no idea what I was in for!
I learned, fairly quickly, that some did not feel it was my place to disciple them; and took great offense at it. And I'm not necessarily talking about the kind of discipleship where you sit down for a 13 week Bible study. I'm just talking about the every day kinds of conversations where you do the "one anothers" of scripture with each other. In trying to shepherd and disciple in that way, I have had some of those who were seen as the most godly say and do some of the most ungodly things. I know I am no better, for I don't always live godly as I should. We are all in the same "boat". But, it was very disconcerting to have people respond so "violently" against my attempts to love them in that way.
One of the things I learned to do was to have others with me, who could help with the process; especially with those who were the most difficult. And I also learned, that there might come a time, when a person demonstrated they had no interest in "taking their next step", and so I didn't waste anyone's time trying to continue. The only exception would be is if they were publicly sinning, and refusing to stop. In those cases, I had no choice, biblically, but to continue helping them as God directs in His Word.
I learned to love in a way that others might call unloving. I would be very upfront with others, if they were clearly wrong; and I would tell them what God has to say, and then offer to help them. It broke my heart to have professing believers in Jesus talk and act that way, and show no desire to grow spiritually. I tried to help them see that true spiritual maturity is not in how many years we attend or serve, or how we dress or the music we listen to. It is about our walk with Jesus in His Word; and our willingness to continually submit our lives to Him. It is a sanctification process, until God takes us home.
God did use some of those times to help some of them decide to leave; and in some cases, that turned out for God's glory, because the rest of us were able to focus on growing spiritually and really loving and helping others grow in their faith. On the sad side, my willingness to love in this way turned into others pushing for me to be fired; and eventually, even several of my leaders decided I needed to go. Much of it was traced back to my willingness to disciple everyone, including those who are older, or those who serve as missionaries or other types of leaders. Even my willingness to keep growing myself and admit my own weaknesses were not enough to change people's minds.
But, as I look back, I don't regret it. God taught me a very valuable, although difficult lesson. We are to make disciples; and we are to love others enough to tell them the truth (in love). Sometimes, that turns into spiritual growth for everyone; but sometimes, it turns into people leaving or asking you to leave. Either way, there was growth; and as long as we faithfully (albeit imperfectly) follow God's Word on discipleship, it goes to His glory. And that, of course, is what it is all about in the first place.
I would do all again; and as I continue to pastor now and in the future, I pray God will give me the courage and faithfulness to keep growing and help others grow - regardless of mine or their age or level of spiritual development!
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
LABORING THROUGH LEVITICUS
In the Bible reading schedule that I and many at our church are following, we are right in the heart of Leviticus. If some passages in Genesis or Exodus did not provide some challenge to continuing, Leviticus very well may. It is full of details of ceremonies that are unique to that time, and include some things that might make us say: "yuck"! Add on to that things that just don't seem to relate to us...at all! This is a place many stop reading; and if they struggle through Leviticus, they are almost certain to stop once they begin Numbers! However, if we stick with it, fully believing that all of God's Word is breathed out by God and is profitable for our lives today (II Timothy 3:16,17), then perhaps we can continue, praying and asking God for understanding and help. One of the resources that was encouraging to me was the introduction of Leviticus in the Bible Knowledge Commentary by John Walvoord and Roy Zuck. Perhaps it can encourage you as well; and bring some context to your reading.
"The Book of Leviticus was the first book studied by a Jewish child; yet is often among the last books of the Bible to be studied by a Christian. However, a book referred to about 40 times in the New Testament should be of great significance to every Christian. Apart from the question of the typological significance of the Levitical sacrifices, the Book of Leviticus contains extensive revelation concerning the character of God - especially his holiness but also His electing love and grace.
Also it provides many rich lessons concerning the holy life that God expects of His people. Many New Testament passages, including some key concepts in the Epistle to the Hebrews, cannot be evaluated properly without a clear understanding of their counterparts in the Book of Leviticus."
Happy Reading!
"The Book of Leviticus was the first book studied by a Jewish child; yet is often among the last books of the Bible to be studied by a Christian. However, a book referred to about 40 times in the New Testament should be of great significance to every Christian. Apart from the question of the typological significance of the Levitical sacrifices, the Book of Leviticus contains extensive revelation concerning the character of God - especially his holiness but also His electing love and grace.
Also it provides many rich lessons concerning the holy life that God expects of His people. Many New Testament passages, including some key concepts in the Epistle to the Hebrews, cannot be evaluated properly without a clear understanding of their counterparts in the Book of Leviticus."
Happy Reading!
Saturday, February 1, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 4
I continue to learn lessons every day. God has been very good to me, allowing me to continue to learn as the years pile on. And, in many cases, it seems that my learning comes as a result of my flubs and failures. Nonetheless, learning takes place! Over 20 years of pastoral ministry, I certainly learned a lot; and I recount some of those lessons here. If for nothing else, these remind me of the privilege of being a pastor, and my faithful God who keeps teaching me about Him!
Lesson 4: I have learned to give people, and the hurtful things they say, to God
Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words have caused a lot more damage.
I think I was naïve going into ministry. Even though I am sure someone must have told me about some of the nasty things that are said to pastors, I don't remember hearing about it. It may have been that someone said something, but I thought what most think before they experience it: "oh, it probably wasn't that bad"; or, "you probably deserved it"; or, "what did you say first"?; or, "it will never happen to me!". I don't remember being prepared for it in any of my Bible college or seminary classes. I suppose it is one of those things that is hard to prepare you for; but it would have been nice to try!
My unrealistic expectation was that I would love the people and the people would love me. As long as I treated them kindly, they would treat me kindly. And I couldn't imagine any Christian being intentionally mean and nasty. Why would they? I don't know if this has every been answered satisfactorily. Any pastor I have ever spoken to, who has been honest, and has not spent his ministry days just pleasing people, has had some unimaginable things said to him, by his own congregation. And no matter how hard I tried to be nice and kind and have people like me, I also received comments that I would have never thought possible before I entered ministry. I mean, I imagined that there were damaging words spoken to leaders in all other fields of work; but not in ministry, not in the church, right?
I will not recount all the nastiness from my 20 years of ministry, but I can remember the 3 worst things I was ever called (that I can remember). They were all delivered in different ways: by anonymous note following a morning service; by phone call; and in a personal meeting. In all 3 cases, I was taken aback, and surprised. Even though these 3 people did not agree with me about something, I did not expect them to call names. Although I don't know who the anonymous writer was (I have my guesses), it was certainly someone from the church, who knew about our mailbox system, since it was put there during my message. These were involved members of my churches, and seen by others as very godly. But, as I can attest about myself, there are times when even godly people do ungodly things.
What did they call me? Hitler, Howard Stern, and the Devil. I'm pretty sure they meant these all in a negative way. I was called Hitler because of my leadership on a particular matter in missions. I was called Howard Stern because of a message illustration they disagreed with. And I was called the Devil, because the person believed I was using God's Word in a twisted, self-serving way. And although you might laugh about these, when they are aimed, seriously, at you, it is hard not to take them personal, and not to be hurt by them.
Here is what I learned through these and other similar circumstances, where people have called me names and said other nasty things: if I don't give those comments and the people who made the comments to God, then I will be full of discouragement, anger, bitterness, or some other negative emotion that will keep me from honoring God and growing through this. I am not saying I have perfected this, or am never hurt by other's words. But, what I have learned to do is summed up well in this verse of the Bible, which describes what Jesus did when He was unjustly criticized:
I Peter 2:23 - "When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly."
Lesson 4: I have learned to give people, and the hurtful things they say, to God
Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words have caused a lot more damage.
I think I was naïve going into ministry. Even though I am sure someone must have told me about some of the nasty things that are said to pastors, I don't remember hearing about it. It may have been that someone said something, but I thought what most think before they experience it: "oh, it probably wasn't that bad"; or, "you probably deserved it"; or, "what did you say first"?; or, "it will never happen to me!". I don't remember being prepared for it in any of my Bible college or seminary classes. I suppose it is one of those things that is hard to prepare you for; but it would have been nice to try!
My unrealistic expectation was that I would love the people and the people would love me. As long as I treated them kindly, they would treat me kindly. And I couldn't imagine any Christian being intentionally mean and nasty. Why would they? I don't know if this has every been answered satisfactorily. Any pastor I have ever spoken to, who has been honest, and has not spent his ministry days just pleasing people, has had some unimaginable things said to him, by his own congregation. And no matter how hard I tried to be nice and kind and have people like me, I also received comments that I would have never thought possible before I entered ministry. I mean, I imagined that there were damaging words spoken to leaders in all other fields of work; but not in ministry, not in the church, right?
I will not recount all the nastiness from my 20 years of ministry, but I can remember the 3 worst things I was ever called (that I can remember). They were all delivered in different ways: by anonymous note following a morning service; by phone call; and in a personal meeting. In all 3 cases, I was taken aback, and surprised. Even though these 3 people did not agree with me about something, I did not expect them to call names. Although I don't know who the anonymous writer was (I have my guesses), it was certainly someone from the church, who knew about our mailbox system, since it was put there during my message. These were involved members of my churches, and seen by others as very godly. But, as I can attest about myself, there are times when even godly people do ungodly things.
What did they call me? Hitler, Howard Stern, and the Devil. I'm pretty sure they meant these all in a negative way. I was called Hitler because of my leadership on a particular matter in missions. I was called Howard Stern because of a message illustration they disagreed with. And I was called the Devil, because the person believed I was using God's Word in a twisted, self-serving way. And although you might laugh about these, when they are aimed, seriously, at you, it is hard not to take them personal, and not to be hurt by them.
Here is what I learned through these and other similar circumstances, where people have called me names and said other nasty things: if I don't give those comments and the people who made the comments to God, then I will be full of discouragement, anger, bitterness, or some other negative emotion that will keep me from honoring God and growing through this. I am not saying I have perfected this, or am never hurt by other's words. But, what I have learned to do is summed up well in this verse of the Bible, which describes what Jesus did when He was unjustly criticized:
I Peter 2:23 - "When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly."
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
What did the Bible just say?
In reading through the Bible this year, it didn't take long for us to read things that don't make immediate sense. There are cultural customs and Old Testament practices and laws that are very unfamiliar to us. There are lists of names, which are hard to pronounce; and there are times, we come away from reading, and ask (in our own minds): What did I just read? Or even: Was that worth it?
Don't feel like you are unspiritual if you are asking those questions. In fact, if we don't have any questions, it probably means we are not reading closely enough; and we are not interested in growing in our knowledge and application of God's Word. There is always more answers that need to be found; and they usually come after we are willing to ask some good questions.
Since we have completed Genesis and are nearing the end of Exodus, there are already many unique passages that we have covered. And as we get into Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy, the questions that arise will increase; and the uniqueness of the content will get more unique! Be prepared. Don't quit. Keep reading; but read as one who desires to learn. Allow me to give you some hints to make the most out of reading these particular books of the Bible.
Don't feel like you are unspiritual if you are asking those questions. In fact, if we don't have any questions, it probably means we are not reading closely enough; and we are not interested in growing in our knowledge and application of God's Word. There is always more answers that need to be found; and they usually come after we are willing to ask some good questions.
Since we have completed Genesis and are nearing the end of Exodus, there are already many unique passages that we have covered. And as we get into Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy, the questions that arise will increase; and the uniqueness of the content will get more unique! Be prepared. Don't quit. Keep reading; but read as one who desires to learn. Allow me to give you some hints to make the most out of reading these particular books of the Bible.
- Read out loud - Reading out loud will add to your comprehension just because it forces you to slow down and pay better attention to what you are reading
- Read with expression - one way to better comprehend what is going on is to read it dramatically, trying to imagine and express what is being communicated in the passage
- Write down your questions - when a question comes to mind, from something you are reading, write it down. Rather than stopping, jot a note and keep reading. Sometimes the rest of the passage will answer your question. Otherwise, you then will remember what to follow up on later because you wrote it down
- Remember that everything written down in these Old Testament narratives are not commands for us, in particular; and every character is not an example for us to follow. It is important to consider that some of the promises and commands to particular individuals, and some of the actions they take, are unique to them. And if they are not repeated elsewhere in Scripture, they may not be things we need to try and apply in that same way.
- We can always learn something about God. Even if the material you are reading is hard to understand, or trying to figure out an application seems impossible with that particular passage, look for something about God. Usually, there are either direct or indirect teachings about who God is and what He has done. If the passage can draw your attention to God, then it is well worth it.
- Look for principles that are talked about elsewhere in the Bible. If it is a biblical principle, illustrated by this particular passage, then you can consider how to apply it to life
- Allow the reading of God's Word to be the benefit. Even if you don't come away from your reading excited with some new knowledge or a vision of how you are supposed to change your life because of the passage you just read, be at peace. Just the fact that you spent some time reading God's Word to you, means that you desire to know Him and follow Him. And that is enough. God will use this practice in your life, now and in the future; and perhaps in ways you cannot yet see. Be patient...and keep reading!
Thursday, January 23, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 3
As I look back on 20 years (including some times of transition) of being a pastor, many thoughts and feelings flood my head and heart. This is a good way for me to get them written down, and re-experience these important lessons God has taught me. Just as a disclaimer: I don't pretend to have all of this figured out; or even that these lessons are completely learned. I realize I will continue to learn and re-learn lessons in ministry until God decides to call me to something else, or take me home.
Lesson 3: I have learned to preach to myself before preaching to others
One of the temptations of ministry is to get so excited about communicating God's Word, and seeing Him work in people's lives, that we forget what is really the best communication that will have lasting impact. If I am disconnected from the truths I am preaching, then it is up to my ability to creatively communicate to and motivate others to believe that what I am saying is worth listening to and applying to life. However, if I have already listened to God's Word myself and am currently applying it to my life, the message will be an overflow from a heart that has already wrestled with these truths and submitted himself to them.
I'm not sure when, exactly, this hit home for me. It was probably about 10 years ago when it really took hold. I don't remember any particular incident; but I think I recognized that unless I was growing and putting the messages to life, I would be preaching in my own power, which eventually fails. But, if I was preaching, based on the work of God's Spirit, using His Word to continually change me; well then, who knows how God might use that to change others as well. People tend to know when you are just saying something or when you are actually living it yourself. When someone is trying to sell us something, some natural questions might be: Have you actually used the product? Are you currently using the product? Will you continue to use the product, even if you no longer work for the company. The same could be asked of the pastor: Have you applied this passage of Scripture to your life? Are you currently growing in your faith? Will you continue to apply this message, even after you have preached it to others? Will you share with us how God is currently working in your life?
For some time, in ministry, I was specifically telling the congregation each week how I had already applied that particular message to my life the week prior. Perhaps I will do that again, where I talk about it every single week. I think, for now, I will just continue to consider my own personal application, and where appropriate, I will share with the people how God has been using these messages in my life as well.
Lesson 3: I have learned to preach to myself before preaching to others
One of the temptations of ministry is to get so excited about communicating God's Word, and seeing Him work in people's lives, that we forget what is really the best communication that will have lasting impact. If I am disconnected from the truths I am preaching, then it is up to my ability to creatively communicate to and motivate others to believe that what I am saying is worth listening to and applying to life. However, if I have already listened to God's Word myself and am currently applying it to my life, the message will be an overflow from a heart that has already wrestled with these truths and submitted himself to them.
I'm not sure when, exactly, this hit home for me. It was probably about 10 years ago when it really took hold. I don't remember any particular incident; but I think I recognized that unless I was growing and putting the messages to life, I would be preaching in my own power, which eventually fails. But, if I was preaching, based on the work of God's Spirit, using His Word to continually change me; well then, who knows how God might use that to change others as well. People tend to know when you are just saying something or when you are actually living it yourself. When someone is trying to sell us something, some natural questions might be: Have you actually used the product? Are you currently using the product? Will you continue to use the product, even if you no longer work for the company. The same could be asked of the pastor: Have you applied this passage of Scripture to your life? Are you currently growing in your faith? Will you continue to apply this message, even after you have preached it to others? Will you share with us how God is currently working in your life?
For some time, in ministry, I was specifically telling the congregation each week how I had already applied that particular message to my life the week prior. Perhaps I will do that again, where I talk about it every single week. I think, for now, I will just continue to consider my own personal application, and where appropriate, I will share with the people how God has been using these messages in my life as well.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
20 LESSONS IN 20 YEARS: LESSON 2
I have had the privilege of serving God, in ministry, for more than 20 years. Along the way, I have learned many lessons; and I am taking some time to recall them here. I am writing this mostly for myself, to remind me of what God has taught me; and to continue in them. I would also love to be an encouragement to others in ministry, at some point in the future. I don't have these in order or even a set list. No doubt there are many more lessons learned; and some I have already forgotten. But these are the ones God brings to mind as I consider them.
Lesson 2: I have learned to be transparent
This is not easy: to be honest and transparent with others as we serve as pastors. I do think it is vitally important, but I realize many in ministry would heartily disagree with this. I can't convince them that this is an important thing; but I can share why it is an important lesson I have learned and am learning.
The tendency, as a pastor, is to be outspoken about how others need to grow; but to be very careful not to show how weak and sinful and desperate he actually is. It is tempting to only give stories about myself that are flattering and where I did the right thing. It can be a fearful thing to be completely honest and transparent, because people might not like me, might think bad things about me; and worse yet, might think I should no longer be their pastor. I have experienced all of those responses.
It is against human nature to talk about what our lives are really like.
But, I have learned, that it is through transparency and honesty, that I remain humble and people are not as likely to put me on a dangerous pedestal. They realize that although I have a different role than they do, I am just like them in my sin struggles. I have found that those who are also desperate for God find comfort, strength and help when their pastor is also willing to admit how desperate he is. I admit: it has been uncomfortable for me, and I realize there needs to be wisdom as to what exactly to share with whom and when. But, instead of making excuses for why I shouldn't share, or what might happen that seems negative, I have learned to pray, and then share what details I think God would want me to share.
I remember, in a previous ministry, when I preached through the Ten Commandments, I preached an introductory message: "How I broke all 10 Commandments". My intention was not to "brag" in any way, but to humbly admit, that in the technical sense, or in Jesus' viewpoint of them, I had broken every commandment. And if you know what the commandments are, then you can understand why that could have been uncomfortable. But, in explaining my failures, it helped all us (except for those who chose to focus on my sins) to realize just how real these commands are even today; and how we all can be tempted to break any or all of them. It ended up being one of my most enjoyable and effective message series; but it all began, I believe, with transparency and honesty.
Now, don't think that I never fail in this...I do. But, it is my desire, after wrestling with this issue for 20 years, to keep sharing the reality of my life with the people of God in this place. One way I attempt to do this each week, is to make sure before I communicate and apply God's Word to others, that I apply that same message to my life. I want the message to be an overflow of what God is doing in my heart before I tell others; and part of that is sharing, along the way, what God is teaching me.
Lesson 2: I have learned to be transparent
This is not easy: to be honest and transparent with others as we serve as pastors. I do think it is vitally important, but I realize many in ministry would heartily disagree with this. I can't convince them that this is an important thing; but I can share why it is an important lesson I have learned and am learning.
The tendency, as a pastor, is to be outspoken about how others need to grow; but to be very careful not to show how weak and sinful and desperate he actually is. It is tempting to only give stories about myself that are flattering and where I did the right thing. It can be a fearful thing to be completely honest and transparent, because people might not like me, might think bad things about me; and worse yet, might think I should no longer be their pastor. I have experienced all of those responses.
It is against human nature to talk about what our lives are really like.
But, I have learned, that it is through transparency and honesty, that I remain humble and people are not as likely to put me on a dangerous pedestal. They realize that although I have a different role than they do, I am just like them in my sin struggles. I have found that those who are also desperate for God find comfort, strength and help when their pastor is also willing to admit how desperate he is. I admit: it has been uncomfortable for me, and I realize there needs to be wisdom as to what exactly to share with whom and when. But, instead of making excuses for why I shouldn't share, or what might happen that seems negative, I have learned to pray, and then share what details I think God would want me to share.
I remember, in a previous ministry, when I preached through the Ten Commandments, I preached an introductory message: "How I broke all 10 Commandments". My intention was not to "brag" in any way, but to humbly admit, that in the technical sense, or in Jesus' viewpoint of them, I had broken every commandment. And if you know what the commandments are, then you can understand why that could have been uncomfortable. But, in explaining my failures, it helped all us (except for those who chose to focus on my sins) to realize just how real these commands are even today; and how we all can be tempted to break any or all of them. It ended up being one of my most enjoyable and effective message series; but it all began, I believe, with transparency and honesty.
Now, don't think that I never fail in this...I do. But, it is my desire, after wrestling with this issue for 20 years, to keep sharing the reality of my life with the people of God in this place. One way I attempt to do this each week, is to make sure before I communicate and apply God's Word to others, that I apply that same message to my life. I want the message to be an overflow of what God is doing in my heart before I tell others; and part of that is sharing, along the way, what God is teaching me.
Saturday, January 11, 2014
20 LESSONS FROM 20 YEARS - LESSON 1
It is hard for me to believe that it was back in December of 1993 that I accepted my first ministry as a full-time pastor. These 20 years have gone so quickly. I have learned so much. I thought it would be helpful for me, and an encouragement for my mom (who is the one person I am pretty sure reads my blog), to write down some of the lessons God has taught me over these years of ministry. None of these are unique to me; and yet these are the things God has brought to my mind and heart, as it relates to some important lessons I have learned.
LESSON 1: I have learned to boast in God, my weaknesses, and the cross of Jesus.
When I first began ministry, and in many years that I have served, I admit that there were a couple of things I wanted to boast in. However, this boasting was not in anything I had accomplished, but in what I hoped to accomplish one day: Having a large, growing church; and being in one ministry for over 20 years. I thought having a large church (not sure the exact number I had in mind) was a sign of God's blessing; and I thought being at one church for over 20 years (not sure why I chose that number) was a sign of my faithfulness and leadership. I was wrong. I'm not saying that those in large churches or that have stayed for over 20 years are not blessed by God, or are not faithful or good leaders. They may be. In fact, I look up to many of them.
But, I believe that one of the reasons God has allowed me to be in smaller churches and well short of 20 years in each, is because He had a very important lesson for me to learn. And I am guessing that if I had only been in one church all these years and had a large, growing church, that God knew I would not have learned it. I believe in the sovereignty of God; and therefore, I believe God has had His hand on this the entire 20 years. And even with my sins, mistakes, and failures, it has not kept God from teaching me some very important lessons, and accomplishing His will and bringing Himself glory!
This lesson is, of course, not some great idea I came up with on my own. It was written thousands of years ago; but I am just learning it. Here are some of the Scriptures that speak to this lesson about boasting:
Psalm 34:2 - "My soul makes its boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad."
II Corinthians 11:30 - "If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness."
Galatians 6:14 - "But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."
So, over the years, God has given me some things to boast about; and these have helped to keep my attention and focus, when I am tempted to want to boast about big congregations and long term pastorates.
LESSON 1: I have learned to boast in God, my weaknesses, and the cross of Jesus.
When I first began ministry, and in many years that I have served, I admit that there were a couple of things I wanted to boast in. However, this boasting was not in anything I had accomplished, but in what I hoped to accomplish one day: Having a large, growing church; and being in one ministry for over 20 years. I thought having a large church (not sure the exact number I had in mind) was a sign of God's blessing; and I thought being at one church for over 20 years (not sure why I chose that number) was a sign of my faithfulness and leadership. I was wrong. I'm not saying that those in large churches or that have stayed for over 20 years are not blessed by God, or are not faithful or good leaders. They may be. In fact, I look up to many of them.
But, I believe that one of the reasons God has allowed me to be in smaller churches and well short of 20 years in each, is because He had a very important lesson for me to learn. And I am guessing that if I had only been in one church all these years and had a large, growing church, that God knew I would not have learned it. I believe in the sovereignty of God; and therefore, I believe God has had His hand on this the entire 20 years. And even with my sins, mistakes, and failures, it has not kept God from teaching me some very important lessons, and accomplishing His will and bringing Himself glory!
This lesson is, of course, not some great idea I came up with on my own. It was written thousands of years ago; but I am just learning it. Here are some of the Scriptures that speak to this lesson about boasting:
Psalm 34:2 - "My soul makes its boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad."
II Corinthians 11:30 - "If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness."
Galatians 6:14 - "But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."
So, over the years, God has given me some things to boast about; and these have helped to keep my attention and focus, when I am tempted to want to boast about big congregations and long term pastorates.
- I will boast in God. He alone deserves my praise!
- I will boast in my weaknesses, because in them I have seen God's work and how He can still use me.
- I will boast in the cross of Jesus, for it is through His death, burial and resurrection that I can have eternal life; and that others can have it as well.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
