Don't be surprised when things go topsy turvy - the enemy is out there - he comes to steal, kill and destroy and his biggest target is the bride of Christ - the church. So be prepared for the storms, decide in advance how you will deal with situations that arise. Hey, here's some examples...
You think God is calling you to preach, but your church leader has said he doesn't think it's the right thing for you now.
The worship leader has just moved away, and in all honesty the worship last Sunday morning sounded dreadful.
You've been in hospital for three days - no-one from your church family has come to visit you and you're feeling pretty lonely.
Just one person has turned up to your home group again...
Human nature is to take offence, to criticise, to throw a pity party, to quit. But here's the great news - we have the mind of Christ! We can choose to see each situation from a different angle - we can choose to see others as Christ sees them. Be patient, if God is calling you to preach in church he'll open the doors for you in his time, and just maybe your pastor is right and preaching is not what God is calling you to! And yes, the worship sounded dreadful - but that doesn't mean you have to tell the band, have you thought about thanking them instead, for taking on the extra responsibilities? Does anyone from church actually know you're in hospital? Why not use this time to write encouraging letters to friends who may be going through tough times too. Thank God, that one person has turned up at your house and remember that the number that turn up isn't going to change how much of God's presence you can experience.
It takes maturity of faith to choose to respond differently - Jesus asked us to love our enemies - it's a no-brainer then that we should love others in the family of Christ! Choose to forgive...just as you have been forgiven. Choose to love...just as you have been loved. I know I often don't get this right - and I'm thankful for those who have been patient with me over the years! Maturity doesn't come overnight - it will grow as we spend time in God's word and in his presence - but lets strive to make our lives and our churches more and more a reflection of our saviour Jesus.
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
