When Things Seem To Fail (cont.)

Make Sure Your Are Not Given To "Faddism."

Churches follow trends and moves in cycles like every other organization. While it is important to be able to forecast what is a fresh way that God is giving the church, it is most important not to follow fads. Bus ministry worked great in the building of a certain church pastored by Brother A. This highly profiled leader speaks to this ministry, and hundreds of pastors buy fleets of buses and the run begins. Later the disillusioned pastor B. has a fleet of buses up for sale and in the wake follows discouraged people that were not fitted for that ministry. The list could go on and on! A sincere leader must seek Gods will as to whether this is appropriate where his field of labor is. Feeding and housing the poor is an honorable ministry, but does God call a church in upper middle class suburbia to do this? Or would it be better for that church to help fund a ministry that does such? Or maybe that church could open up a mission in the needed area!

Prove the "Good and Acceptable and Perfect" Will

Paul taught the church that one can know what is the good, acceptable and perfect will of God. In examining this passage, one emphasis should be on the word "prove". In the Greek, it means to"discern, to examine, to try". One would not buy a suit of clothing without first trying them on or a car with out test driving it as well as examining data regarding ratings, resale values, warranties, etc. Personal ministry must carefully follow Paul's admonition as to the appropriateness of this ministry. Ask yourself some questions if you seem to have come to a dead in street in this ministry pursuit. Was the timing right? Did I adequately prepare? Is there a great need? Is it according to my giftings? Have my efforts been affirmed by positive feedback?

Sometimes Perseverance Is the Only Thing Needed

Sometimes ministries fail because of the lack of perseverance. If you are convinced beyond the shadow of a doubt that this is Gods will for you, persevere!! Be willing to start small and grow with what God is calling you to do. Don't give up. Things can turn in a moment of time! God bless!