Those who aren't doing, sadly never will

As pastors, it's our job to envision the God-given potential in everyone, equip them, and then release them into ministry. When it happens, it's such a beautiful thing. But sometimes we imagine for people... what they're really not up for. The interest may be there. They might even see their own potential. But if the will-power isn't there, nothing outside of the Holy Spirit will motivate them to do it. As gluttons for punishment, we pastors will continue to meet with them, praise their gifts, and fill-in their silence with optimistic responses to our own questions... but still, they'll do nothing. It saves everyone grief and headaches when pastors pour into willing folks who not only desire to serve others, but are currently acting on it.

2 Timothy 2:2 ~ These things you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust them to faithful people who will be able to teach others also.

Comments

[Dan Richardson]

That is a really good reminder. We just planted our church at the beginning of January and I have faced that frustration. There are already so many good people giving themselves to the church and yet it's so easy to get sidetracked by the people that are perfectly capable and gifted, and yet they remain in their seats...unmoved.

This was good for me to remember to focus on the willing and not shortchange them by getting sidetracked with the consumers

[Clayton Bell]

Great post. It's the daunting task of the pastor/leader to continually see people as God sees them, yet walk in wisdom and temperance to know how and when to give them responsibility.

One of the things I've realized working a "real job" post-ministry is that ministry is one of the few jobs where you're learning at the direct expense of other's lives. EVERY job has indirect implication on people's lives, but ministry is tied directly to the lives of those around us. We MUST do all that we can, through prayer and wisdom, to raise up faithful and talented leaders. I'm just rambling now...

[chill pastor]

thanks ben...very timely post for some of the stuggles I have with being in pastoral ministry...

chill