Development

Well, it happened once again. Late last night....something after 9pm. Not knowing what God in store yet, then, thanks to social media, something resonates.

On the page of a popular, well-known pastor and author was a meme with a profound statement:

God has anointed you to accomplish your assignment, but you are responsible for developing your gifts.

Immediately upon reading and recognizing the impact of such words, I thought of the young man who arrived into town over the weekend and will be interning at our church for the next two months or so. Throughout the history of Scripture and humanity, for that matter, anything that was accomplished for the glory of God, as well as what has been achieved, in general, did not simply and instantaneously come into fruition and greatness.

Absolutely, there was an anointing.
There was a calling; a sense of purpose.
And there was a season of preparation.
Of learning; of trial and error.
Of discovery and perfecting the craft.

The anointing does not mean there will not be work.
It doesn't dismiss the idea that the work, will at times, be hard and frustrating.
It does not negate the fact that the work will be inevitable.
It does not ignore the fact, that while there will be a grace that accompanies the anointing, it will not make up for what is half-hearted effort on our part.

For whom much is given, much is required.
And if you are not faithful in small things, who will trust you with great riches?

We get hung up on the riches being money, but a great and content life can be lived without the abundance of green and gold behind a vaulted door. It is one, in which, a calling is being fulfilled. And the accomplishments in the process are great because of the understanding of one's responsibility to grow, learn and develop their talents and abilities.

Mitsubishi had a great car advertisement back in the 90's, for it's 3000GT VR-4 sports car.

"Some are born great.
Some achieve greatness.
Some have greatness thrust upon them.
Once car manages all three."

Such is life. The first may happen without you. The second and third require not only your participation for your strive for excellence in the process. In whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that pastors and leaders will not neglect nor forgo, their responsibility to develop their gifts and talents. May the work on their craft, with diligence and perseverance. May they not quit and give up in frustration, when situations and challenges arise that they are uncertain how to handle and navigate. May their willingness to serve be strengthened and the desire to be used by God, fortified. Pray for a continued humility as they set out to do what God has called them to; relying on the presence of God and His anointing. May they not hesitate to give God the glory for what they accomplish, knowing full well, they have done their part by the grace and favor of God.

Anointed by God.
Faithful themselves.
For His Glory.

- PNC

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