One of my prayers for 2012 is to ask God to both renew, and help me to better communicate, vision in my life. I've always loved Proverbs 29:18, because I think it says so much in a few sentences. I especially love the KJV wording - "where there is no vision, the people perish". And I've always been intrigued because it's so insightful, yet so simple. Without vision, we're not going to see much happen. How many of us leave on a trip without a destination in hand? Without our GPS set, or map in hand? I'm a huge NFL fan (if you consider the Cleveland Browns an NFL team ;) ) and I think about the fact that no coach shows up on day one and says "Let's play, and hope we win". You go in with a plan, an idea of where you want to go.
My prayer for this is two fold. First, the obvious one, is vision for ministry. I wrestle with insecurity - it's the thorn in my flesh that Paul discusses. And I always wonder what I'm missing when I struggle to recruit leaders, lead the ones I have, or lead students. Recently, in my prayer time, I've been feeling that God has been telling me that maybe it's because I've not clearly shared what I'm thinking, where I think God is leading us. Communication is a recent focus, and is an ongoing area of refinement for any leader. I've been thinking that it is time for a shift in what we do, how we do it. it may not look different to those outside of our ministry, but it may change everything to those inside. Exciting!!!
My other prayer is personal vision. What is God asking of me as a believer? As a husband? As a dad? What things is my heart desiring that may, or may not, be what God has. One dream is write a book that gets published. Not for noteriety, but to share what I can to help others. Is that a selfish desire? Praying it's not as I am working on a book proposal. I want to be a Godly husband and father, not just because I'm supposed to be, but because I want my kids to grow in knowing Christ, and want my wife to know she's treasured as a gift from God. I know that I do not put enough time in my life for me. Not to watch football, play video games, lounge around (although there is nothing wrong with those). But how am I recharging myself?
Just some thoughts as 2012 unfolds. I really believe, in my heart, that 2012 will turn my world upside down, and for the positive. How could anyone not think that. God promises in Jeremiah that he's got a plan, a great plan, a plan that is all about His glory and our blessing. Pray with me, won't you? For me and for you! Be excited! Ask God for the vision for your life, and then be passionate about carrying that out!
Selah.....
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Monday, January 2, 2012
What's next, Papa?
A question that I have been thinking about ever since attended a conference in Atlanta in Nov. While I don't associate it with the strange theme of the conference (although not as strange as the hindu baby, right team?), that question has had me thinking a lot lately. What's next Papa?
That's how I am starting off 2012. By asking God, my Father above, "What's next Papa?" For many in full time ministry, myself included, we have a tendency to get caught up in programming, tasks, and the job of pastoring. But during the holidays, I began to think a little deeper about my ministry calling. I am a full time youth pastor - and believe that I have the BEST job in the world. I'm love my students as if they were my own kids. Eventhough, at times, I watch them make poor decisions or treat their lives as if they deserve more than they have, my frustration comes from wanting to see them authentically connect with Christ, and to embrance all that HE has for them. And I I thought deeper and deeper, I could feel the temptation of seeing my job as a job. That scared/upset/angered me. and I felt myself thinking more about the events and programs instead of stopping to ask "What's next, Papa?".
That question has sent me into a new walk through God's word. I've begun seeing how the events of 2011 are setting up for a remarkable 2012. Not all of 2011 was fun - I lost my grandmother, friendships, ministry aces, etc. But each of those will be something God will use to grow and stretch me this year, and impact the ministry He's called me to lead @ Grace Community.
So, as we begin 2012, please join me in asking "What's next Papa?" I believe His answers will rock our world!!
That's how I am starting off 2012. By asking God, my Father above, "What's next Papa?" For many in full time ministry, myself included, we have a tendency to get caught up in programming, tasks, and the job of pastoring. But during the holidays, I began to think a little deeper about my ministry calling. I am a full time youth pastor - and believe that I have the BEST job in the world. I'm love my students as if they were my own kids. Eventhough, at times, I watch them make poor decisions or treat their lives as if they deserve more than they have, my frustration comes from wanting to see them authentically connect with Christ, and to embrance all that HE has for them. And I I thought deeper and deeper, I could feel the temptation of seeing my job as a job. That scared/upset/angered me. and I felt myself thinking more about the events and programs instead of stopping to ask "What's next, Papa?".
That question has sent me into a new walk through God's word. I've begun seeing how the events of 2011 are setting up for a remarkable 2012. Not all of 2011 was fun - I lost my grandmother, friendships, ministry aces, etc. But each of those will be something God will use to grow and stretch me this year, and impact the ministry He's called me to lead @ Grace Community.
So, as we begin 2012, please join me in asking "What's next Papa?" I believe His answers will rock our world!!
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