Wise Counsel

 I didn't cover in yesterday's Don't Make Messes post, about the pastoral movie I watched recently.

Throughout the movie, the handling of situations and the conflict and tension between pastors and deacons was deep. Indeed, some showed genuine concern for what was transpiring and tried to respond appropriately. Others, responded in the flesh. Others acted our their own power trip, using title and position as an overarching reason

It was incredible. I know pastors and boards have disagreements and sharp ones at that, as we discussed a few weeks ago, but I truly hope and pray that tensions and tempers between pastors and deacons remain at bay, rather than what this movie portrayed.

Interesting enough, (back to real life) our Wednesday night devotional was on seeking wisdom and advice. The premise, was the story of Moses and his father-in-law.. Jethro gives some great advice as to how Moses should handle the nation of Israel.

Practical, efficient, true wisdom,  Moses receives from his father-in-law. And Scripture says Moses did all his father-in-law had said to do. This wasn't an exercise in obedience, so much as it was recognizing what was being offered... insight that would help Moses for the course of his tenure as the nations' leader.

Pastor offered this great insight into delegation. (I'm paraphrasing)
The purpose is to allow one the time to work on what they do best. You delegate so that you can do the "thing" that nobody else can do. If you don't, you'll find yourself doing everything but the one thing that only you can do and if it gets done at all, it won't be done well.

Solomon asked for wisdom. And everything he could have asked for was added. Why? Because wisdom is the ability to put matters into proper context and perspective, to think carefully and consider calmly what the best course of action is given the surrounding circumstances.

Yes, it takes work. But it's worth it. And if pastors and deacons alike are carefully to utilize such a method, then I'll sleep better knowing their are many more healthy dynamics between deacons and pastors than was portrayed on screen.

On this #deaconThursday, pray that there would be a proper spirit of wisdom and service to those who hold advisory positions. Pray cooler heads, would indeed prevail in tense moments of disagreements. May a spirit of unity, respect and passion for the work of the ministry be the underlying current that dominates conversations, meetings and decisions. Pray the power trips of pastors and of deacons do not cause a path to destruction that leaves a church in ruins, but may the be a renewed sense of cooperation to work together for the advancement of the gospel in the communities where they are planted.

Wisdom from on high. For what man does on his own will falter. But with God, all things are possible.
May we have the mind of Christ, as we seek first the kingdom of God.

- PNC

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