Counting Costs... Who Pays?

It dawned on me yesterday afternoon, as I continued to reflect on the prayer posts for the past few days, in light of the movie on pastors, that starting a fresh ministry can't be spur of the moment.

While the pastor who stayed behind and wound up on a power trip, forever changed for the worse, the pastor who couldn't wait to venture out received a harsh and swift reality check of what it would take.

It wasn't covered in prayer and aside from trying to convince the other pastor to go with them, outside counsel, let alone wise counsel, was never sought. When they talked about how to pay for it, they simply said "We'll use the trust fund payout we are expecting."

It was a stark contrast to the verse that talks about counting the cost, lest one is not able to finish the project and becomes the object of foolishness to all who pass by.

There was a time where stepping into missions and planting churches was simpler than it is today. Be that as it may, such decisions were made from a true calling of God and were covered in prayer.  

God doesn't do anything half-hearted. He can not be the God of the impossible, while not being able work every out detail and decision to accomplish His plan and purpose for His glory.

What God is in, God will provide whatever is needed to accomplish it.

When we try to go it alone, justify it with reasons other than "calling", seek to accomplish it on our strength rather than reliance on God, on our own insight and wisdom instead of the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

A church plant. A mission. A position of leadership, influence and authority. Everyday life. 

Sure, you can try it on your own, but when you have the opportunity to have God write your story, why would you want to leave Him out of it?

Pray, this #missionsFriday, for Pastors and missionaries, just getting their start. May there be a true calling and anointing upon their lives, visible and confirmed by those whose faith is strong and mature; known for Godly counsel and spiritual discernment. Pray God raise them up as they prepare for the work of the ministry; that they will complete the process excited and prepared. May they not be dismayed or discouraged if things don't always go as planned, but they remain steadfast to will of God and what He desires to accomplish. May they be committed to follow and honor the direction God provides, trusting His ways and thoughts are higher. Prayer their spiritual ears be attuned and their spiritual eyes open and focused on God, while keenly aware of their surroundings.

Pray God's blessing on their endeavors as Ambassadors for Christ.
For the glory of God as they live life as we all do. One day at a time, by His grace, in His love, and with His strength.

- PNC

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