Outside Balance

I was reminded earlier today, of just how much of a struggle the balancing act can be, between ministry and life outside the four walls of the church. People love being involved in ministry and rightfully and commendably so. But sometimes they do so, putting other aspects of their life at risk.

It's not they shouldn't make a sacrifice, nor that certain positions of ministry are risky. However, having a home life that is out of balance or finances that are out of control or relationships that are perhaps less than beneficial can stand in the way of how one approaches ministry.

Stress, worry, anxiety, frustration... the sorting and balancing of life is difficult enough most days. But it is both problematic and dangerous to build a ministry from a personal life that may have some foundational issues. It is a fine line. I'm not suggesting everything needs to be "perfect" before stepping into ministry. I'm reminded every time I sit to write this site, that I'm taking this lesson to heart.

But Paul understood this dichotomy all to well. If the struggle interferes with ministry...

Granted, he was talking about a specific struggle, but the larger point is there. Ministry has enough battles and struggles of it's own without our entering it with our own, unresolved chaos and undue stress... much of which could be avoided or eliminated by out daily decisions.

So, pray this #deaconThursday, that God would help church leadership and staff solve and correct the matters and issues in their personal lives where problems outside the church are affecting their work within the church. Pray that God would give them wisdom in handling those situations and grace in dealing with those involved. Pray that God would grant them strength, for the weary and down-trodden who've recognized their troubled existence has lasted far too long. May God accomplish the miraculous as they commit to bringing order and structure where there is little to none. Pray for increased blessing over their ministry as they get their personal affairs together and on the right track.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC