ARTICLE 01.27.21
A few years ago, I wrote an article in the Tidings entitled “God Things vs. Good Things.” My heart has been drawn back to the message found within that piece, and I have decided to share it (slightly revised) with you again this week. I pray it might help you as you seek the “God Things” of life.
“God Things” vs. “Good Things”
Life can bring us to many decision points and possible frustrations. My constant struggle is discerning “God’s Things” as opposed to “Good Things.” Let me explain. I am overwhelmed at the great opportunities I have to make a difference in the church and community. Every day, I find a new possibility for ministry. There are civic responsibilities, mission efforts, service projects, and charitable causes. Moreover, my regular ministry activities—studying, visiting, proclaiming, leading, etc.—all deserve appropriate attention. A former pastor, Dr. Wayne Barnes, once told me that every single pastoral duty is noble and could actually absorb all my time.
I am grateful that the Lord expands my/our territory, but I am also aware that these opportunities force greater stewardship of my/our time and money. The reality is that I do not have enough of these resources to do everything that comes before me. SO, where should I invest my time and effort? This is where I’ve had to realize that every good thing does not equate to every “God thing” (for me). In other words, I recognize that there are many worthy, moral, and even God-honoring adventures of which I (and the church) can be a part; yet, God has not called us to participate in every one of those efforts. Thus, there is a struggle to determine which good thing is actually a God thing. Are you with me here?
And while there is no easy method of distinguishing what ministry to support, I do believe that there are some guidelines. For example, I first try to filter the opportunity through the question: “Does this endeavor enable me to love Him fully and follow Him faithfully?” Indeed, does it really help me grow in Christ, connect to my biblical community, and/or engage in His mission? If not, then the ministry isn’t something for me. Then I consider my priority list: 1) God, 2) Family, and 3) Church. This list helps me prioritize my time in particular. Time is the most difficult area of stewardship for me. (I can always make more money to give to an organization, but I can never manufacture more time I invest in the kingdom!) Next, I try to discern if the need is being fulfilled by someone else or by some other ministry. If it is, perhaps I’m not necessary. From there, I turn to prayer and seeking. I ask the Lord for a specific Scripture. After all, His word still speaks to us and guides us. Through these avenues, I invite the Spirit’s leadership and guidance. In this process, I also find counsel from other Spirit-filled believers. People who fear God more than they fear me are essential to my life and direction. So often, God uses these individuals to confirm His guidance. Do I always make the right choice in all matters of life? Absolutely not, but I continue to refine my approach and seek His wisdom daily. And I pray you do too!
Good things can crowd out the God things of your life, so be intentional with how you use your resources for His glory. Don’t forget that I pray for you all daily as you make God-pleasing decisions. Take time and give thanks to the Lord for all opportunities and blessings. Then live wisely as to those blessings. And never forget, you are loved! See you Sunday!