Did God Really Say?

Yesterday after church, the family and I went over to my parents place for dinner. The food, of course, was awesome as always. However, when my oldest started making a little bit of an issue of not wanting to eat/not feeling well; I eventually switched gears, if for not other reason than to avoid getting frustrated with the situation and asked what topic we should discuss.

A few seconds later, after making a joke about discussing religion or politics, Dad spoke up... here's a topic!

And the discussion started.

After a few observations were made and a couple of "those are complex concerns", he then threw in the caveat...

What if this is a situation involving a pastor (and their family).  Now, keep in mind, this isn't a dominate social topic in our current climate, nor is it a blatant morality issue for which they shouldn't be in ministry. It is however, a complex issue and a decision that affects the family unit as a whole. While I wouldn't call it a "lifestyle" decision, it certainly is a decision that affects their life and lifestyle for a period of time... and when it involves church leadership, it's easy to understand how some might have concerns.

(I know you're frustrated about my not being specific about the topic; just practicing discernment)

The big picture though, as I continued to think about our discussion is the difficulty and challenges that ministry faces. Whether personal or public, not everyone will agree with the decisions people make and the lives they lead. I don't understand some of those made by my friends, let alone pastors and they may not agree with the ones that are made concerning my family. And that's fine. At the end of the day, each has to live with their own and the results or consequences that follow.

One of the points that came up, though is the discerning of the Spirit. Sometimes people are spot on and others are so far off that it's incredible.  Christians get it wrong, as do pastors. Yet as church leaders, there's another level to consider... one that sometimes gets missed and that's where the problems begin. The decisions of those in charge, do affect those under authority. Directly or indirectly; immediate or delay... it will happen, eventually.

So... pray, this #seniorPastorMonday. Pray a true, Spirit of discernment for pastors and leaders. While they still may make decisions not everyone will agree with; may the be extra careful to know when they have truly heard from God regarding direction. Pray for strength in their families, as they live and operate as a unit. For those they lead and influence, may God grant them wisdom in their conversations; that as they live and work, their relationships would sharpen and draw people closer to God, rather than words and deeds that would separate and divide. Pray against the attacks of the enemy that would desire to use circumstances to cause riffs and strife, whereby attempting to derail and disrupt the ministry efforts of the church. May their impact in the communities they serve not be hindered; but advance the kingdom as they Gospel goes forth; both from the pulpit and the pew.

As we live for an audience of One.
That God might be glorified in all we say and do.
Not for the applause of man
But in obedience to God.
For the cause of Christ.

- PNC