Ideology

Diversity is great. Differences of opinion. It happens. Shared experiences. They help. Sharing past experiences. Here comes understanding your perspective.

In the midst of all of this, are environments the people of whom live in them call "culture". Mode of operation.

Yet, what happens when competing ideologies can't see past their own? Gridlock. The conversations take place, but it's rare that one truly sees the basis of the other argument, by which they can build upon, to the point that they can shed light on the truth and 'bring someone over' if you will.

The political arena is full of this right now. Gridlock. And how many minds are being "converted" by either side?

What's all this have to do with the church? Plenty, if this situation plays out amidst deacons and board members when it comes to church direction and vision and to greater extent when the church needs to reexamine it's approach to society as it moves further away from God destined for His creation.

Gridlock will damage your ministry as much as it will mess up your ride, if you aren't paying attention and are keenly aware of what transpires around you. Church shouldn't be full of "yes" people, but there needs to be a spirit of unity. You don't need to look any further than politics to see that nobody likes to be around people who are intentionally divisive. For those who do, chaos soon follows.

On this #deaconThursday, pray for a spirit of unity. Pray that chaos does not lead to the enemy's game of divide and conquer. Pray for men and woman who will seek God and His direction for ministry rather than public opinion or selfish motives. Pray that peoples' experiences and perspectives will provide insight for potential improvements within ministry rather than personal stands that may cause a stumbling block for those around them. Pray the churches continue to be people who seek the kingdom & righteousness of God, not their own status, righteousness or ideological framework. Pray for discernment, to know when to let God take care of converting hearts and minds, in His time, for His purpose, to His glory.

-PNC

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