We just completed our fourth class at the Faith leaders Institute at CSU and have a few more classes to go. The first few classes were very inspirational, but I have got to say this one was quite overwhelming. A gentlemen from the government was there to teach us about getting federal funding for ministries that serve the community as a whole (which is a very good thing), but we are no where near being able to apply for that kind of funding, although we sure could use it for Coast Recovery Services. I’m glad my husband is in the class, because he can handle that level of education. I had to leave the room to catch my breath. I was so overwhelmed.
Does the business of ministry overwhelm you too?
I sat in silence, breathing deep, and asked the Lord to reveal something to me about how I was feeling. I wanted to be sure it wasn’t fear, because I don’t like getting involved with things that are motivated by fear. The words of Carolee Dalton whispered in my ear,
“Is this serving YOU? Is this making you happy?”
sigh*** No. It’s not serving me, it’s not making me happy, and it was zapping my joy for ministry.
I picked up my phone to check my email and I got a message from a blogger… she is struggling with issues in her faith. She wants to talk to me. I also got messages in my Facebook inbox from people all over the world asking my thoughts on spiritual abuse and healing. This is where I thrive. It makes me happy to help others organically. Sure it’s good to have a set schedule, organization is important. However, I don’t need federal funding to be there for brothers and sisters who need encouragement for the faith and support in their church communities.
It’s most often the politics of ministry business that puts a damper on authentic ministry. Organizations suffer on a DAILY basis with chaos and corruption behind the scenes in ministry. Most average church members are unaware of the drama and backstabbing that goes on, but for those who do know it’s heartbreaking and discouraging to them.
So what do you do? I’ll be composing some articles and videos to share some thoughts and inspiration with you in the coming future. in the meantime, what parts of ministry politics hinders your spiritual growth?
Sisterlisa
