By Fred Bishop
No Greater Love Ministries Newsletter
www.nogreaterlove.org
P.O.Box 263
DuQuoin,IL 62832
618-542-4503
So many Christians today are burned out. They wanted so much to have it all. There were endless and duplicate visions of national ministries, massive churches, and perpetual personal bliss. Unfortunately, many have found that enthusiasm and zeal of years back has been replaced with a deep cynicism. Some have completely given up the fight while others have placed themselves in the position of constantly giving out more than they are taking in from God. In their quest to be leaders for Christ, They have found themselves utterly and completely frustrated. Despite their good and holy intentions, those “springs of living water” seem to have dried up. Please remember that our call is not to reach others, it is to have a living relationship with an almighty God through Jesus Christ. It is only in Him that we are able to keep ourselves fresh and allow the “rivers of living water” to flow from that relationship.
The solution lies in accepting our calling and not moving beyond it. The Bible teaches that each person who is “willing and obedient will eat the good of the land.” God does not need you, your church or your denomination to do all the work. In the world everyone wants to be promoted, to do it all. Many people in the secular world and the church world are moving beyond what God has given them the grace to do. The “Peter Principle” of business states that each individual will ultimately end up being promoted one step beyond where he is competent. God’s plan for your life does not include the “Peter Principle.” Take heart in the fact that God knows you and He will use you if you let Him. There are many needs in this world, but the “need” is not the call, just the opportunity.
Each of us must be willing to “pay our dues” as Christian leaders. We must learn to submit to others as “apprentices,” learn to work alongside as “journeymen” and then receive our position as “craftsmen.” The reason so many jobs are being left vacant is that too many Christians are unwilling to “fit into” the real needs of churches and ministries. They want to be at the top and be thought of as great in the eyes of men. We need to stand against this independent, rebellious, and self‑destructive attitude. Each of us must submit ourselves one to the other for the protection and guidance it insures.
When we are willing to do our part, we can maintain our priorities with God, family, church, community and the world. Let’s repent of trying to do it our way and instead let’s return to submitting to each other and being willing to take constructive advice. Please take a hard look at what you are presently doing to serve God. Check your motives, the motives of those over you and listen once again for the still small voice of God. If God is in your efforts, then relax and let God flow through you. It will be enjoyable, productive and constructive.
