Providing Perspective
Providing Perspective
It has been over eight weeks since I last sent out a devotional, which focused on Romans 12:2, one of my key verses. Thanks for all your comments. It did touch a chord with many of you.
As I have been processing my thoughts and connecting with others over this summer (which is flying by) I believe that the local church needs to minister to our people in three ways.
1. In the midst of world chaos, uncertainty and confusion, the church needs to be a sane voice of reason providing perspective through teaching, community and prayer. Over the past weeks, as folks come to me for prayer on issues which are way over my “pay grade,” I listen and silently, in the moment like Nehemiah did, I ask for God to give me the words to provide perspective for this dear hurting individual.
2. The church needs to shepherd their people. Yes, teaching and programs are good, however, we need to model Jesus, as The Good Shepherd. I have always summarized the role of Shepherding in four ways. Shepherds know, feed, lead and protect their sheep.
When I think about the first role, “know,” I’m reminded of smaller churches that I have been part of. The Shepherds knew my name. When I was called “Bruce” by the Pastor, Elder, and my Care Group, it gave me a sense of care and belonging. I was important to that leader. I have always made it my mission to know names. Forgive me, when I miss yours, for my memory capacity seems to be taking a beating these days. In our larger church, Community or Care Groups are so important as they also invest in the four roles of Shepherding. If you are not part of one, please make it your highest priority to join one.
3. Be the hands and feet of Jesus to a hurting world. Following Christ’s example to love others, we must seek to make a real difference in the world while not neglecting to share the message of Jesus.
Now, let me take a risk. The pandemic has changed culture. The church has certainly been impacted. Positively, it has forced us to think how we minister to people online. What encouragement we have had from folks who listen in locally and internationally. Yet, this was never to replace Hebrews 10:25, which tells us to not neglect meeting together, to be community, to encourage each other in person.
Obviously, some are not able to because of health limitations, residing in care facilities, etc.
Yet, if you are able, please join us in person. Please come back. You cannot fully be community from your sofa.
As I close this devotional, I want to address my first point on perspective.
On August 14th, when I spoke at Peace Portal, I talked about 5 questions I use to provide perspective when faced with anxiety and fear. Several of you have requested them, so here they are, to give perspective.
The verse I prefaced them with is Psalm 139:14.
I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
The reality of this promise is that you and I are SO loved by God.
What is happening to cause me to be anxious?
What tangible signs am I experiencing right now?
What is the story I am telling myself?
What does Jesus say about this? What experiences have I had of God being involved in my life?
What do I need to do to counter this? Use the power of God’s words. Write a list of several verses. Psalm 139:14 is on my list.
Charles Spurgeon has written,
“I have a great need for Christ; I have a great Christ for my need”.
Now that is great perspective!
~Bruce
