Group Decision

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Philippians 2:3-4

This scripture takes our thoughts off ourselves and places it on a larger audience, our neighbors. But the question I have is "who are my neighbors here?" Is it only those who are homeless or needy? Or are they closer to me like my wife, family and friends? It's easy to say it's about ministry and serving there but I think it's "all the above" within context or priority. So we need to base our thoughts & decisions based off of what God knows is best for the collective whole and not just for ourselves.

My mind is consumed with thoughts of taking a break from ministry because I've lost something within me to serve joyfully. It would be easy for me to say it's just because work has become so busy that I just don't have the time to serve anymore. But it could also be because I'm lacking fellowship where I need it the most; with my wife, family & close friends. Constantly refusing opportunities to share life with my loved ones and only working or serving in ministry has slowly chipped away without me even recognizing it. This scripture is framing my thoughts with what's best for everyone, not just myself. Is the NHSI congregation really better with or without me? Am I really making a difference according to my gifts or am I just the admin relaying messages and handling details? Am I really able or ready to serve as frontlines director? In the worldly view, I would've been fired already because I haven't been performing. I need to step away for a season to see what's best for others.

Holy and patient LORD, thank You for placing me here today. I welcome these struggles because it allows me to draw closer to You and the body of Christ. You placed within my heart today to seek Your will by taking the focus off of me and onto Your other children. Thank You for reminding me that God has a plan even beyond the walls of the church... we are the church! In the mighty name of Christ Jesus I pray, Amen!

Refocus on Calling

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.

Philippians 1:21-24

We all have an ultimate goal and that's to be with Christ Jesus for all eternity but we also have a journey that cannot be forgotten. Sometimes we feel like giving up; fast forwarding life to get to the finish line quicker because life's tough with all its challenges. We need to recalibrate our hearts in whatever God-given way to achieve an enduring heart that pushes through any obstacles and distractions the world throws our way. We need to be men and women who joyfully accept this journey.

I feel like giving up all the time. I always wonder if my choices were correct and how I'm living with them. Does it have to be so difficult? Can't things just be a little different? I dream about that day to be with Jesus and free of all the pain the world delivers. I think about all that the apostle Paul went through; even in prison. But he still chose to live in the body for the benefit of men & women on earth. He realigned his life back to God's calling for Him.

I wonder about my calling. I'm torn lately because I don't have any time for ministry at NHSI. I need to balance my life differently now so that my wife gets my extra time, not ministry. I'm being called on for all those things at NHSI that I just can't do. I'm not willing to place that before my wife, my family but that's what will happen if I keep this course. I don't feel like this is quitting but rather refocusing on God's calling and journey for my life. That's when I can joyfully go through life with all its trials. I don't ever remember my calling to be a worship leader or frontlines director. God has told me to disciple and mentor my brothers and sisters.

Thank You, Heavenly Father for being so patient with me. You've guided me through my confusion and never fail. I pray LORD, that You grant me the strength to see and pursue my calling without doubt and hesitation but with confidence and boldness in Christ's Spirit. Love You my wonderful Counselor! Amen!

Who You Fighting?

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 6:10-12

The devil is sneaky. He will disguise himself in our spouses, family, coworkers and friends to separate and destroy. If he came just as he is we would easily recognize & rebuke him by the holy blood of Jesus. We know he doesn't stand a chance to our King. And that's why the devil takes the attention off himself and makes us fight our loved ones. in hopes our armor would be taken off and our holy guards down. In the middle of a domestic rival, many worldly emotions will grow to the point of rejecting God's ways. When this happens we will look around at the devastation and wonder how we got here.... the devil will be laughing hysterically with his outcome. We need to remember that the evil one is behind sin and we must attack satan with heavenly armor and not God's children.

A couple things happened to me this past few days that illustrates this so well. One had to do with a friend's marriage and how there were so much to be said about the person but it was my reminder that we are at battle with the enemy, not our loved ones. The second example came from my own experience; how I can feel so hurt, bitter and angry at someone or something. I totally forget in my heightened state that the battle isn't necessarily what's in view but rather who is pulling the strings in the background or spiritual realm. Just as I reminded my friend I too need to be reminded of this.

Heavenly Father, so glorious and peaceful, guard my heart and return pure joy in my life. Help me to over come all obstacles that prevent me from seeing the wonderful blessings You have stockpiled. I pray LORD for a release and freedom to love You unconditionally. Help my family achieve all Your glorious riches in Your kingdom. I love You my Father and Friend. Amen!