You can feel it in the air; God is up to something. The only thing we can do at this point is believe that God is who he says he is and that he can do what he says he can do. Sometimes it seems as though God asks us to do the impossible. However, I’m reminded during those times that with faith everything is possible! In hopeful anticipation of God doing a new work, I submit a few thoughts.
Number one: Moving together in unity is essential. God leads through unity and at the end of the day, the direction the Holy Spirit leads the church is the way the church must go without complaint or compromise. The church must do this in a spirit of unity and love. If so, we cannot fail, because love never fails. If not, we have failed already.
Number two: Living within our means, yet having faith, requires obedience. We are called to be good stewards of what we have. However, I also believe we are called to take steps of faith as we walk into the future. Our hope is always “treasure in heaven” (Matthew 6:20-21), not laying up treasure on earth. I’m reminded of John Wesley who said, “If I die with more than ten pounds ($16 dollars), may every man call me a liar and a thief.” Therefore, as God leads the church to reach more new people for Christ, and we respond in obedience, we can expect reward. God’s Word promises to reward obedience.
Number three: Risk-taking is vital in kingdom work. Getting out of our comfort zone can be… well, uncomfortable. However, it’s a risk that we must take in order to be effective in an ever-changing world. We are all accountable to God for our stewardship, but we are also accountable for our willingness, or un-willingness, to step out in faith. God is the owner of all things, not us. Thus, God’s ownership frees us to take risks and invest in the future.
I am convinced that the only thing that hinders the church is a lack of faith. It’s not money, resources, property, or talents… Remember, Moses couldn’t speak, Jeremiah was too young, Amos was uneducated, and Sarah was too old… but God said, “According to your faith it will be done…” Lack of faith is, and always has been, the only thing that hinders the church. My prayer is that God lead us in complete unity and help us live within our means, while also stepping out on faith and taking risks to advance the kingdom. Never forget, “Everything is possible for one who believes” (Mark 9:23). I believe God can do anything and you can’t talk me out of it!
Brian L Powell 