Years ago, I was asked to take a break from ministry while I went through some personal issues. I was incensed because I felt like I was being fired, let go, sent out into the boat without an oar, without any life preservers. I tried very hard to get anyone to listen to me, to listen to my plight. Nothing had changed except the fact I was having to deal with an issue, but I could do that and my job without any added stress. In my humble opinion, the people who were telling me to take a break had no clue what they were talking about, I knew better because I understood more than they, just how much I could handle. The scripture in Proverbs tells us not to lean on our own finite understanding but rather to trust in the Lord in all things. At the time, I was fooling myself and it completely clouded my judgement and understanding. You see, God knows these things and, when we are not listening, He uses others in our lives to speak into our situations.
Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isa 40:30-31 NLT
The incident was almost a quarter century ago and today, I am called on to help others who were, or are, dealing with similar issues. So here is to walking alongside those who are hurting or are feeling overwhelmed, taking time to listen to what they are saying and lean on the wisdom of God to know what to do and how to be there for them. I can attest that when we are in that place where we feel we can deal with it and start getting defensive when others offer to assist, the guidance and wisdom of the Holy Spirit seems to take a back seat to self. I got hit with this over twenty years ago when my stubborn streak kicked in:
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice. Pro 12:15
I may not be the wisest man but I do lean on the promptings of the greatest wiseman going and He says wait and rest, let Me show the way, who am I to argue? Today, I am thankful for the wonders God has provided me, my family, my calling and the gifts of the Spirit. I am also very thankful for the time away to refresh and renew. I did not know just how tired I was and, even though there were signs, I thought I was doing very well. This has opened my eyes to the fact I was a bit overwhelmed but had become blind to the reality the stress was having on not only myself but also my family and my faith family. Wise counsel suggested a rest, God provided.
All this to say thank you for not only the break but also for the opportunity to reset and reorganize my life and ministry plus I would also like to thank our faith gathering for all they did to keep His message front and center. I look forward to seeing you all again this coming Sunday where we will join together in praise and worship to a mighty God.
We invite you to join us as we welcome back Pastor Todd from Sabbatical. The service will be broadcast online (see links below), or you are more than welcome to join us in person 10:30 AM, at 402 Main Ave. W in Sundre, AB.
Blessing,
Our Mission “To live the love of Christ”
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