Wise Instincts

I keep finding myself having these moments of thought, consideration and reflection. It's a good thing right, as a reminder that brain is functioning? Or at least attempting to do so? However, on many occasion, I find myself in somewhat of an internal conflict...

Between the lessons I wish I had learned long ago that are still a struggle and the lessons I want my kids to learn long before they have to worry about sharing my aforementioned sentiment.

Take for instance, today's take-away.

Wisdom is knowing the appropriate time to act/react based solely on instinct.

We've all experienced moments of regret in both realms. Times that your instinct was right and you didn't trust them. Times when you ran with your instincts and got into serious trouble. As I reflect on the difficulty of navigating such moments, one thing is clear... not everything can be taught. Some lessons are best learned through living.

That's why they are called life lessons.

Many professions and arenas of life share this dynamic. And ministry is no different. All the study and preparation, conversation and prayer doesn't prepare you for the people you will encounter, the stories they will share, the trouble and trial for which they will seek help... and of course, the x-factor. What God will do in you, through you and reveal to you as you serve in ministry.

The life of faith is an everlasting exercise of the repeated cycle of living, learning and trusting.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that as pastors live and learn, may they continually place their trust. May the Holy Spirit develop within them, an increased sensitivity, not only towards the presence of God and the prompting of the Spirit, but a strong instinct. Pray for the lessons they will learn as they live and serve in ministry; that God would use them to accomplish His purposes and enhance the impact they will make as they share life and faith with kids and youth. May God guard their hearts and minds; that while they may not live a perfect life, may they live one free of regret; having learned when to trust their instinct and when to exercise wisdom in waiting.

Waiting on Him
Living by faith
Trusting in His plan
Always learning
For the advancement of the cause of Christ.

- PNC