Our YWAM Base leader, Michael Berg, taught us on what it takes to be a pioneer and an effective leader. We looked at the core values of our specific base; that we are God-led, family oriented, integrity based, and characterized by faithfulness and fruitfulness. We talked about how God entrusts ministry to those who are faithful, available, and teachable.
We also discussed the 8 Hearts of an Effective Leader; someone who intercedes for people, someone who initiates discipleship and relationship, someone who tenderly cares, but who also can empower people to do it on their own. Someone who values transparency and is willing to be vulnerable, someone who is walking above reproach in all they do. Someone who has a shepherd's heart and is always willing to serve. I walked away from this week feeling prepared, but also challenged by the amazing qualities that I desire to grow in.
On the last day of class, as we reflected on the past week, we were challenged with studying Genesis 16. The passage is about Abram and Sarai and how they got tired of waiting on the Lord to fulfill His promise of a son, so they took matters into their own hands, and enter Hagar and Ishmael. Much pain and suffering was caused because of their choice to "help" God fulfill His word. I had never thought of it this way before and I began to consider how many times I've tried to "help" God fulfill His promises to me, just because I wasn't willing to wait for His timing.
The dictionary definition of the word "wait" actually means to anticipate, look forward to, long, yearn, expect, or to be ready. Yet how many times when we think of waiting on the Lord's timing do we yearn, long for, or even anticipate His timing? This really hit me.
I prayed and asked the Lord if there was anything else He wanted to say to me about the topic, and I saw a picture in my mind of three writing utensils: a pencil, a pen, and a calligraphy pen. Then He explained to me how the pencil is practical, it writes things down. But it also can be erased easily and isn't very visible. Then there's the pen, it also gets the job done; it's practical, efficient, and permanent. Then. Then there is the calligraphy pen. It's not exactly practical or efficient, but it's beautiful. It definitely takes longer, more concentration, and often times a lot of practice. But the result is well worth it.
I've been struggling this week with waiting on God's timing, especially with the finances for my ministry development school, as I still need a lot of money. Sometimes it feels impractical to wait, or not very efficient, and sometimes I have to fight the urge to "help" God fulfill His promise that He is my provider. But I know He is writing my story in calligraphy, and He is doing it much better than I ever could in pencil.
"For I know the plans I have for you." says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take." Proverbs 3:5-6
"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them." Romans 8:28
"We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps." Proverbs 16:9
If you would like to be apart of my journey through my prayer email chain you can contact me here: sacree01@gmail.com
If you would like to join my support team and help me financially through this season you can donate here.
Payment for a student/Winter SOMD/2016
If you would like to join my support team and help me financially through this season you can donate here.
Payment for a student/Winter SOMD/2016
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