by For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)
The “Write” Purpose
The purpose of this blog was to give an outlet for my writing, a place to minister, and encourage healthy churches, ministers, and ministries. While I have not covered all of these in detail or even scratched the surface, the goal that I set for myself will demand plenty of content. It is my hope that I can explore some topics and be a blessing at the same time.
I also thought that this blog would be a place that would give a look at life and maybe be a place for me to record experiences. Journaling every day has provided the opportunity to write personally about those experiences. But I am not planning to share some of those posts! 🙂 (Now you want to know huh? LOL)
Regardless, it is my hope that this blog will not just be a place of teaching or encouragement, but also a place to do life. Who knows where this blog will go. I am hoping to keep it up to not only reach a goal but to share life with others!
There are over three hundred questions in the book of Job.—Warren Wiersbe
Challenges and Friends
We spent much of the week at District Leadership Meetings for the various departments we serve. The Assemblies of God denomination brings Districts together for training, encouragement, and inspiration. It is a week that is full of information, food, and spending time with friends.
One of the best things about the week is not just the things we learn, but the relationships we develop with other leaders. We have had the privilege of spending time with people who have been such an encouragement in our lives.
One of those friendships that I have developed is a (now) former District Superintendent which I look forward to spending time each year. This year he challenged me personally on being spiritually, physically, and emotionally healthy. He is in his 70’s, reads 20 chapters of the Bible each day, and runs 5 miles every day.
He has shared lessons that he learned during his time of ministry and district leadership. His investment in my life has been to challenge me to fulfill the calling that God has placed on my life. I am grateful for relationships that will challenge me while also valuing my unique leadership.
A man that hath friends must show himself friendly.—Proverbs 18:24
Weather
The weather has been pretty crazy this week. It felt like spring just before a winter storm came blowing through. Rain, sleet, snow, and cold temperatures came through and pretty much shut everything down outside of the hotel.
I love being outdoors and watching the weather is a bonus to me. It has always been fascinating to watch and experience the different weather conditions. I am always in awe at the wonder of the natural world around us that God has created for our enjoyment. (A picture I took at one of my favorite places is in the heading of this post!)
Much of the way that I am designed to stay healthy is to be outside and enjoy the beauty of nature. There are few things in this world that I love more than exploring the outdoors and seeing some of the most beautiful places available. This is so energizing and refreshing to my mind and spirit, giving me the clarity to pursue God’s purposes for my life.
The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be.—Anne Frank, in her diary, February 23, 1944
Decisions
With the inclement weather, came decisions that had to be made for our School of Ministry that was scheduled for the weekend back home. It is always a challenge to predict weather and road conditions, especially several days out. We just have to make the best decision possible with the information that we have.
When pastoring, I always hated having to make the decision when it comes to weather. Making the decision as to whether we should have services or not was always difficult. In pre-Covid days, it was not acceptable to do something online in our context. Additionally, it wasn’t something we thought of as an option because we had stuck with one model of holding church services. (That would probably be completely different today!)
I try to gather all the information and all the facts that are involved in a decision, and then weigh them up and pray them over in the Lord’s presence, and trust the Holy Spirit to sway my mind in the direction of God’s will. And God generally guides by presenting reasons to my mind for acting in a certain way. J. Oswald Sanders, “Lessons I’ve Learned,” Discipleship Journal, Issue 15, 1983, 14.
Concluding Thoughts
A few of the things that I have been challenged with this week.
- Prioritizing spiritual, physical, and emotional health
- Actively developing friendships that are encouraging and challenging.
- Focus on being more sensitive to the prompting of the Spirit in my life.
- Explore
Blessings,
Chad
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