Shaped to Serve

Church planting is really hard...not just hard work; it's also hard on life.

I was talking to the spouse of a church planter yesterday, and she was relating to me her feelings that they hadn't accomplished what was intended or expected.  I tried my best to reassure her, but to be honest, I don't know if she heard me or not.  At times like this, feelings dictate to us most of what we are experiencing.

I know those feelings firsthand.  When we planted our first church in the Boston area, we found ourselves passionately believing that God was going to do GREAT THINGS through us.  After all, we were absolutely sure He had called us.  In addition, we had moved cross country, from Los Angeles to Boston as a demonstration of our conviction and commitment to that calling.  But a year into the experience, we were exhausted and hurting emotionally.  It had turned out to be nothing like we had dreamed! 

In the midst of prayer--agonizing prayer--with God one day, I was complaining to Him about how He had promised to plant a great church through us.  Like a lightning bolt from heaven, He pierced my heart with the following:  "I can't do a great work THROUGH you, until I do a great work IN you."  How very true.

The first season of a church planter when he hits the field for this great adventure is all about character development.  While your experience may not be the same as mine, I can pretty much guarantee that God's going to get to work on shaping you for the calling He's given you. 

And that will be hard...maybe even painful at times.  Most character development is shaped in the crucible of life.  But in the midst of it all, don't ever forget what He says, "My grace is enough; it's all you need.  My strength comes into its own in your weakness."  (2 Corinthians 12:9, The Message)