About a week ago, the Serve and Equip board of directors had one of its regular meetings. In it, I presented a directors report talking about what the Lord has been doing lately through S&E. My report started out:
“I confess gentlemen, I’m not sure where to begin… should I focus on God’s faithfulness through some positive ministry opportunities and our future; should I focus on God’s faithfulness through some very unexpected and incredibly hard times for those we serve and even us personally? …or should I focus on God’s faithfulness in the times of uncertainty where the peace that passes all understanding – especially mine – is overwhelmingly present? I guess the answer is simply YES!”
Yes, We can ALWAYS be thankful for God’s faithfulness – regardless of our circumstances. God is ALWAYS faithful and worthy of our praise.
After a challenging 2020, many of us have had a difficult start to the New Year. As we’ve interacted with those we serve, we’ve been reminded how several have had challenges with employment changes, family matters, sickness, and even physical death. How can we still be thankful during those times? Right before the Apostle Paul gave his benediction, or closing in 1 Thessalonians 5, he instructed the Thessalonian believers, in verse 16 and following, to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” He then reminded them that “Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will do it.” God truly IS faithful … Paul’s very next words… were, “Brothers, pray for us.” He knew that dependency on the Lord during these difficult times is required… It IS all about God – He IS Faithful and we ARE instructed in Proverbs 3:5‐6 to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Psalm 119: 105 reminds us that, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” It’s all about HIM – and HE is worthy of our praise. HIS Word is true. It’s HIS Spirit working within people’s hearts, it’s HIS Spirit who is our comforter, it’s HIS strength which equips us to serve beyond where we feel we can. It’s all about HIM and HIS glory. May we be equipped through God’s Word to be faithful servants of our Lord Jesus Christ.
As I wrapped up my report to the board, I asked them to, “PRAISE the Lord with me - for HIS faithfulness AND for what HE is GOING to do as we seek to move forward in HIS timing, HIS strength,…” then I asked them – and I ask you as well,… “Will you pray with us to that effect? That HE will be glorified every day He gives each of us breath and as HE continues to direct our paths as we seek to proclaim HIS Word effectively.”
