During my recent transition God graciously reminded me that He needs me for absolutely nothing. I spent the first month on staff at LifeWay writing a forthcoming book in a public library. Most of the time I was very alone. My regular ministry rhythm was in disarray, those I served alongside for years were far way, and there was also the normal uncertainty of a new role. In those quiet and still moments Christ worked on my heart and reminded me of His sufficiency and my fragility.
As I sat in the library God showed me that the church I moved away from was doing great…without me. The organization I was moving into was functioning and serving churches…without me. I am totally unnecessary for the Kingdom.
The reminder is humbling and liberating. It is humbling because God chooses to use us because He loves us and not because He needs us. And it is liberating because the success of God’s Church does not depend on us.
Pastor/Church leader – God does not need you. But because He loves you He invites you to join Him in His redemptive mission in the world.
God’s been showing me this over the last year and BOY is it humbling.
It is humbling to be forgotten by men, but remembered by God. Recently, I have been a journeyman on that same lonesome path. It is comforting to know God has me in His plan though.
Yes — humbling and refreshing at the same time.