This is a very personal devotion so read on with that understanding. It was spurred on by a devotion by Chuck Swindoll from his book Good Morning, Lord…Can We Talk? The May 15 devotion was about Paul’s ministry credentials found in 2 Cor.11:23-28. As Chuck points out, it isn’t much of a resume. Least not an impressive one. But here is what got me in a big way and got me thinking:
Too often, ministry positions are couched in ways to attract young, talented, blue-chip candidates and invite them to an opportunity for ease, popularity, and public affirmation. The apostles knew none of that. The same for servants of Christ today who truly preach the gospel of Christ and surrender their lives to Him.
That brought to mind what the late Darrin Patrick said. In an interview he talked about being part of a group of young pastors who became celebrities with book deals, speaking gigs, fame and money, but little spiritual maturity. He later said his early success led to an obsession with keeping up his image rather than his soul.
All that Darrin said is true. Not that I ever had to deal with that. I was never a celebrity (except in my own mind)…and now that see it I am grateful. God knew I was not ready for that nor would I have been able to handle it. But I confess to wanting it. Now I can also say I’m glad I never had that chance.
Arrogance is an ugly thing. I came out of college into my first ministry thinking I had all the answers and the world was my oyster. Oh, how wrong I was on all counts! I aspired to be known and never thought of Paul’s words. I never despaired enough to take (allegedly) Darrin’s way out, but I confess to not grasping what appeared to be God lack of blessing on my life, especially as I watched others climb.
But hindsight-and a whole lot of maturity-has enabled me to look and see and KNOW God’s hand was always there. I’m glad I never got “big.” I’m glad I am where I am-a pastor of a small church (less than 200) in a small town in the middle of Indiana (although I’ve never begun to root for IU).
“Thank you Father that You were always there, always in control, always directing me where You wanted me to go. I’m glad I’m here. I wouldn’t trade it for any amount of money or accolades.”
Amen, Bill! We need to bloom where we are planted, and give God the glory.
Blessings!
That’s exactly how I feel martha.
This takes me back to wisdom… something many of us don’t have in our early years. I remember my own pre-college/college days thinking that I would get a really fun job in the industr, etc. etc… then later on, when I rededicated my life to Christ of how I was, like you, going to set the world on fire.
I never wanted to be “big”, just try and make it in the world..alone or with someone(anyone) by my side.
But now age and perhaps a little bit.. just a tiny bit of maturity has made me realize that somethings are just not meant to be. Not that I am disappointed, but it sure is comforting to know that I am right where God wants me to be.
I think wisdom grows with maturity and experience. It takes a “big” person to admit they are pursuing God’s way vs our own way.