In the past two years we have been called into numerous ministry situations in which there was a notable lack of unity among the leadership team, throughout the church as a whole, or both. In seeking to help these leaders faithfully respond to these situations, we found ourselves going back to first principles: Why is unity important to God? What is He seeking to accomplish through our demonstration of unity? What are the practical prerequisites for unity to flourish? What factors hinder the development of unity?
Surrendered All?
Is Your Yoke on Straight?
In Jeremiah 27 the Lord provides us some precious insight into the nature of our ministry in Christ. In verses 1-2 the Lord says…
In the beginning of the reign of Zedekiah the son of Josiah, king of Judah, this word came to Jeremiah from the Lord. Thus the Lord said to me: “Make yourself straps and yoke-bars, and put them on your neck.
When Struggles Persist
Why is it that we as Christians often struggle so much in resolving problems that enter our lives? We have the inspired, infallible Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17) replete with eternal wisdom at our disposal, and we have the Holy Spirit Who resides within us to lead us into all truth (John 16:13). One would think, and it is certainly God’s plan, that with these immeasurable resources we would enjoy the sweetness of victory rather than the bitterness of defeat.
An Essential of Ministry Leadership
Outwardly it seemed like a very successful local church with a highly effective ministry. Gifted and sufficient trained staff was on hand, the facilities were more than adequate, and hundreds of people made it their church home. Those were the external appearances. Internally, the lay leadership behaved tentatively, the membership seemed to lack commitment, and a sense of enthusiasm and hope was absent.
Motive in Ministry
You’ve seen it happen. Many a leader begins a ministry with an overwhelming sense of inadequacy, an utter dependence on God. The challenges of those early days are approached with a spiritual posture face down before God, crying out for His grace and wisdom. Every challenge is immediately brought to the Lord. Issues are bathed in prayer.