Oh the life of ministry...

Oh the life of ministry...

This week of being back in North Carolina has been filled with great times, random, and it's challenges. 

This journey of faith contained with the unexpected challenges and provisions. One such example is when everything seemed to be on an increasing downhill. Cancelled meetings, low fundage, and the like. Enjoying the time here, yet the performance anxiety kicking in. A glimpse of hope with an unexpected gift. Then finding my car has been towed. Well there goes the gift...

Yet the provision in the timing and provided opportunity to catch up more with a friend. More than that, a continued test of trust.

Some more spiraling down when hear word of a closing of a  friend's ministry. Then and a need to change locations for my event. And cancelled numbers.  Should I cancel? Why waste people's time?

But at the same time, God already prompted my sweet sister though states away (B.Sue) to be already praying for me. We text each other at the same time. Me asking for prayer and her already on it.

I move forward in grace. The event was not about the numbers. It was about obedience, encouragement, and provided the opportunity to meet a stranger who learned about the issue of trafficking and a chance to hear about the gospel. Results are never my own.

This is just a small example of the many ups and downs of ministry and the battle in between. It is an example of the hand of Grace over my life. Things rarely work out the way expected and choosing to enjoy the beautiful mess in between.

Here's to the next step of faith..

Thankful for community that joins me on what I could never venture through on my own.

Thankful for a God with an endless supply of  love and grace.

For God or With God?

"We work with, not for" Some people with NMSI have used this phrase to show we work more alongside each other rather than a hierarchy. (note: we do have the necessary authority structure) but I have been corrected when my mindset constantly thinks of being under someone, when instead it is more of a partnership.

Though this sounds great, it is taking some getting used to. This struggle relates to my relationship with Christ. So many times I try to do things for God. Constantly trying to please Him and never living up. When instead, I am missing where He's already at and where He is going.

The mission of Christ and His heart for the nations is so clear and evident throughout Scripture. And this will happen in my doing or not. God's plan will continue, His Church will prevail. And the amazing part is that God invites us to be a part of that. To join Him. 

None of what I do, YouthHOPE, or any local church does is really that impressive in and of itself. It becomes impressive though, when we join in what God is already doing among the nations. I encourage you to really join in His glorious plan and live out your role and purpose for His Kingdom. It is not about what we do for Him (as I so often get backwards) but joining where Christ is already at work. 

To Him be the glory!