Confidants

As I debated yesterday whether I was going to share the a specific detail or two about the opportunity I mentioned with one or two close friends when I saw them at church last night (hesitant for not wanting to jinx it), I once again, quickly had my answer, when I inquired of God, my need for an idea for what you are reading. In seconds, you have people you can confide in. Hopefully pastors do as well. So here's the question.

Who does the confidant confide in?

To whom does the advisor go to for advice?

The point was driven home all the more, as during the prayer time during worship service last night, Pastor always introduces the those who are on part of the prayer team as people, whom, whatever is shared with them will hold your need in the strictest confidence. I then watched him go and ask for prayer... which he often does. Whether it's personal or ministry or perhaps both, at times, I'll never know. Interestingly enough, the couple he prayed with was one of the close friends I shared my specifics with last night. What does that tell you?

With regards to deacons and church leaders though, it's not that confidants are immediately turning around and sharing the details of what one has just confided in them... lest it contradict the whole point of being confidential. That said, no matter who far up the latter you are and even when you are at the top, there should be people in your life that are helping (and desirous to help) carry the load and burdens of life. None of us where meant to live life alone; nor accomplish everything on our own. Granted, sometimes the helps help and sometimes they don't, but pity the soul who has no outlet for sharing life, seeking advice, challenging us to be who and all we were created to be, not to mention, spurring us on in the love and grace of God.

By the way... since one of the aforementioned friends texted me yesterday morning, saying thanks for piquing  my curiosity, what's the opportunity... I'm sad to say, it slipped just that fast. I went to respond to it last night after church and poof... needless to say, I climbed into bed more than slightly bummed. I didn't jinx it, as life does not work that way, but obviously, in the sovereignty of God, there's a lesson on the chalkboard of life. And something else in store... perhaps.

So, pray this #deaconThursday for pastors and church leaders, who in the challenges and circumstances in life, even in the face of such opportunity and disappointment as I've experienced in a 48-something hour period, continue to place their trust in God... in ALL things. Pray for discernment as they seek advice and counsel; who they should go to and what they should share. May conversations be seasoned with grace and the counsel in alignment with the will and Word of God. Pray for those who are advisors; may they be sensitive to the leading and promptings of the Holy Spirit; they they, like all of us, would not rely on our strength, knowledge and intuition, but seek the face of God and search the depths of His Word. May there be a fresh release of the casting of cares to Christ; for indeed He does care for us and pray, that as the church shares life together, we would sharpen each other as iron sharpens iron. Growing in the fullness of faith, in the knowledge and wisdom of God through His Word and in the love, grace and forgiveness made available to us through the person of Jesus Christ.

The ultimate Advisor
Entrusted us with the good news of Heaven
The one eternal truth, NOT to be held in strictest confidence.
Such opportunities to share, may we not miss us.
For His glory and honor.

- PNC

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