The Fight

"Anything worth fighting for...is gonna involve a fight" - Ron Conlin

I always enjoy conversations with my beloved, older brother. He's been in town over the weekend, so last night for a good 90 minutes or so, we were able to sit on the front porch and have a great time.  The wisdom he has in the past 25 years amazes me; what God has shown him, how God is using him, and God has blessed him; and how, at the end of the day, none of it is about him, for him or because of him. It is all about God and learning the role he plays in His plan even when he doesn't understand what's going on or how it will look when it's done.

Towards the end, he was sharing so many good thoughts, I almost felt like I need to take notes; especially as we talked about Bring Me 70 in the final moments. Some how, today, as we pray for Associate pastors, the "worth fighting for" stood out. There's always something going on in church operations, especially one that is healthy, growing and active in the community; but for Associates carrying so much of the daily ministries over a wide range of demographics and a variety of situations at any stage in life, it's easy to consider whether the work is worth it.

As my brother encouraged me, that helping pastors combat burnout in their ministry lives as well as their personal lives, is desperately needed, so to, Associate pastors, your work is worth it...even when you feel like you aren't making the progress or seeing the results you thought, hoped and prayed you would.

We agree in prayer with you, that you will be strengthened and encouraged, that you and your efforts to help the church move forward, are worth it. May God give you glimpses of victory, that you are witnessing eternal success for the glory of God. Whether over coffee, in a hospital or a late night chat on the porch listening to the light rain...your investment to the church community is necessary and vital and we pray lasting and effective gains, as you advance the Kingdom of God.

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