(Acts 1:4 NIV)
Knowing that you are in the ministry that God intends for you is yet another key to longevity. In the days to come, everyone in some way must be connected with a local body under the leadership of a God-called pastor. Many people move from one ministry to the next, based on what they think each has to offer them—never asking what God wants. Using ministries as stepping stones is wrong, and if you are not prospering in your call, this could be the reason why. This key applies to everyone, not just full-time ministers.
When I graduated from Southwestern Assembly of God Bible College, I received a very good offer. The dean of the college told me that he wanted to recommend me to a very good church, and it would have been a great opportunity. However, the only thing that I had real peace in my heart about was attending Rhema Bible Training Center in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, near Tulsa.
I knew that if we moved to Tulsa, it would mean both my wife and I would have to find jobs. This move would be a real test of faith for us, especially when I had the opportunity to move immediately into full-time ministry.
Friends would say, "Why are you going to a Bible school? You just graduated from college!"
But God had another plan. He was preparing my way to Little Rock via Tulsa. We must follow our hearts and not the offers. God holds the future, and the best future for you does not always hold what seems to be the best offer. The will of God is to stay planted where God has you until He says to move.
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"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end" (Jer. 29:11). "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left" (Isa. 30:21). "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God" (Rom. 8:14). "Follow the steps of the godly instead, and stay on the right path, for only good men enjoy life to the full" (Prov. 2:20,21 TLB). "O my son, be wise and stay in God's paths" (Prov. 23:19 TLB). Father God, sometimes I get impatient, but I choose to stay where You have me until You say it is time to go. Even when it doesn't make sense to my natural mind, the center of Your will is where I will stay because that is where the blessing is. Thank You for the Holy Spirit who leads me and guides me. He tells me when to stay and He tells me when to go, and I will obey. Amen. Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers |
Terry has served as senior associate minister of a thriving congregation for over 23 years with over 40 years of experience in local church ministry. He is currently the senior pastor of Impact Church in Sherwood, Arkansas. Terry has authored four books. On the bestselling list, these books have motivated thousands of Christians to stand with their leaders in faithful service, helping them to fulfill God's purpose for their lives.
