Finding a life raft in the sea of frustration

A few days ago I was watching a video of a successful worship ministry. It was really fantastic and full of life, passion and a strong anointing of God. Now, as a Worship and Creative Arts Pastor for 15 years,
I stand up and take notice when I see people pouring their hearts out and adoring their awesome God.

Unfortunately, I soon went from exaltation to minor depression (anyone else with an artsy personality?) as I saw elements of their ministry that were not in mine. Fortunately, this didn't last long as the Lord revealed to me a marvelous truth that brought renewed passion and a peace to my soul.

Psalm 139:13,14 is so beautiful it bears repeated meditation. "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made..."

We are crafted by God. We are His "workmanship". He has thought specifically about us and created us to be an amazing work of art. Then, if that wasn't enough, as a believer in Jesus Christ He has given us spiritual gifts. These things are supernatural and draw others to Jesus.

God desires for us to flourish in who He created us to be. To listen to His voice, then obey Him with all that we are. Not to worry or fret about what we can't do, but to be that person that He "knit together". We will see the beauty in life as we listen to Him and allow Jesus to bring harmony to our world and people are brought closer to Jesus.

So, I guess I'll continue to minister with all my might with the gifts He has already given me. To recognize and feed into the incredible people I work with whom He has also "fearfully and wonderfully" made.

Are you drowning in the sea of frustration? I think I've found a life raft for you.  His name is Jesus, and "His works are wonderful. I know that full well."


 

Hearing God

So I once again asked God how I could make a greater difference in the world. And, once again, His answer was short and sweet. John 14:21 says this, "Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves Me."

I really think I love Jesus, now. He changed my life 27 years ago from a depressed, going nowhere drug and alcohol abuser, to someone with real hope, real love and having my feet on solid ground. He made me think of someone other than myself. But this verse really challenged me.

Do I hear His voice all the time? Probably not. Will I always do what He says? I would hope so, but probably not. But I want to....badly. For if I have learned anything these past years, it is that He knows what's best for me and everyone around me.

So it comes back to this...once again. Listen to His voice and His commands and do what He says. This always means bringing people closer to Jesus. And that, my friends, is worth it all.