Something New

I am often too contemplative for my own good. I get things rolling around in my head and create perceptions and arguments for and against things that aren't necessarily the most beneficial footholds to gain. I also fall into the comparison trap between the past and my current standing/situation.

As I seek direction from God for what to do next in ministry here at Northridge, it can be easy to fall into the trap of looking at the past and what has worked instead of trusting God for a new vision. I believe strongly in the fundamental principles of relying on the Word of God for teaching, a lifestyle of worship, serving in the area of your giftedness and a commitment to leading others to Christ. Those areas do not change, but the methodology will vary. I trust in God's great plan for us though-even though I need to remind myself of that sometimes. I know that He has something that is new and incredible for all of us-as His church and for all of us as individual families.

My heart is focused on the youth at Northridge this morning and I know that God has something new for us. It is time to truly seek what that vision is and to be faithful and obedient enough to step out and follow it-even if it is something we have never seen before.

"Forget about what's happened; don't keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I'm about to do something brand-new. It's bursting out! Don't you see it? There it is! I'm making a road through the desert, rivers in the badlands. Wild animals will say 'Thank you!' --the coyotes and the buzzards-- Because I provided water in the desert, rivers through the sun-baked earth, Drinking water for the people I chose, the people I made especially for myself, a people custom-made to praise me."  Isaiah 43:18-21

Prevailing Purpose

As I read in Isaiah 28 this morning, there was a problem in the church. The spiritual leaders had become focused on their own position and comfort level. They were not teaching the truth of God's Word, but had instead fallen into a pattern of simply teaching "don'ts." There was no emphasis on the true nature of God and His great desire to have intimacy with His people. As a result of their lack of vision and obedience, the people following them were mere spiritual infants when they should have been mature. Due to their lack of faith and trust, God created circumstances that would bring their focus back to Him-painful as that process was going to be.

When God is ignored in His church (even today), He will get our attention. This is not out of His own pride, but out of His overwhelming love for all of us. It is a challenge for pastors and leaders to stay focused on His ultimate plan for us and to be sure that we do not lose sight of His direction. If we are firmly in the Word and committed to teaching it no matter what that looks like or how uncomfortable that makes people, then it won't be necessary for God to intervene in other ways.