I guide you in the
way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will
not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to instruction, do
not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.
Proverbs 4:12-13
A few years ago, I was advising a church undergoing the
construction of a beautiful new building project. This ministry had prayerfully
and carefully looked upon God to guide them in this extraordinary effort. The
new facility was going to expand the work of the church and God’s Kingdom
tremendously.
But for some people, that wasn’t enough.
By
the time construction of the facility was at the halfway point, the project
manager, an exceptionally talented and dedicated church member, was ready to
quit. Between those who were coming to him with their personal “recommendations,”
and others complaining about every new phase of construction this poor soul was
beaten down. He felt he just couldn't win.
Privately, the man told me, “I’m going to quit. It’s just
not worth it! It’s like fighting a war and I don’t even know what the war is
about.” I knew this man was about to make a hasty decision; one made from
exhaustion instead of encouragement, and from frustration instead of faith.
I looked at him and asked very softly. “Do you think you are
doing the right thing with your decisions?”
“Yes, I do,” he replied. “I think we have made each decision
carefully and with good reason.”
“And do you feel that the decisions are best for the church as
a whole and for the Kingdom?”
“Yes.”
“And do you feel that you have served God in these
decisions? Do you feel that you and the other true leaders of this project have
followed God’s will?”
“Yes. I think we have planned well and the building will be
awe inspiring!”
“Then there is no war. There are only some disgruntled
people. They will stop their grumbling when God’s vision comes to fruition. Your
task is only to be faithful; look ahead and lead.”
Remember Jacob? He physically wrestled with an angel of God.
Later, the disciples argued among themselves about who among them was Number
1 . . . and about church policy details.
So, if Saint Peter and Saint Paul argued
over church politics and procedures, what makes us think WE can come through
unscathed? It would be tremendous if doing service among God’s people was
always easy. That just isn't the case. And the inevitable conflict can be a
real test. In fact, entire churches - even denominations - have split because
of conflict.
Yes, following God’s will is often difficult. But, we are
not called to win every battle or be right in every decision. We are called to
be faithful. Like the project manager I spoke to, who saw the building
construction through to its completion, we are not called to please everyone,
but to carry out the will of God as a leader in the church. God will take care
of the rest.
Certainly, you are a leader. Whether it is in church, at
home, at work, or in your community, you are in a position to lead. Just
remember, never lead alone. Look to God’s will for your direction. Look to the
incredible things He has in store. Ignore those who say your dreams can’t come
true. Walk away from those who discourage you. Just look ahead and lead!
This Week’s Prayer
Dear Lord, please stay by my side in the times ahead.
Inspire my decisions and set my heart on fire with your will so that I will be
faithful in all that I do in your name. Allow those I lead to see your wisdom
and patience in the path you have placed before us. And let that path lead
always to You. Amen.
