10.12.11 "We're All In This Together"

"We're All In This Together"

Jeremiah 19:1-21:14
1 Thessalonians 5:2-28
Psalm 82:1-8
Proverbs 25:8-10

Leadership can be challenging sometimes. There are times when you'd love to make the "easy" decision, but you know you can't. Following God is not an exercise in popularity. Jeremiah realized this, and took an opportunity to vent about it a bit. "O Lord, you deceived me when you promised me your help. I have to give them your messages because you are stronger than I am, but now I am the laughing stock of the city, mocked by all. You have never once let me speak a word of kindness to them; always it is disaster and horror and destruction. No wonder they scoff and mock and make my name a household joke. And I can't quit! For if I say I'll never again mention the Lord - never more speak in his name - then his word in my heart is like fire that burns in my bones, and I can't hold it in any longer." (Jer. 20:7-9)

Godly leaders lead because of the fire of God in them. I'm so thankful for the leadership team God has placed around me here at Oak Creek. No one is in this for themselves. These are people who are called by God, and are walking in obedience. I have the privilege of working with leaders of many different ministries in preparation for illustrated sermons, musicals, young married activities, and so many other events. I am so blessed by the individuals that are giving so much of their life to lead others to Christ.

Many of you on this list are not a part of Oak Creek Assembly of God, but no matter where you're at, the leaders that serve over you or with you have given so much as well.

Think of these individuals in today's scripture.

"Dear brothers, honor the officers of your church who work hard among you and warn you against all that is wrong. Think highly of them and give them your wholehearted love because they are straining to help you. And remember, no quarreling among yourselves." I Thess. 5:12-13

Having grown up in church ministry and been a part of it all my life, I can so greatly appreciate Paul's context of honoring your leaders: no quarreling among yourselves. I guess leadership is kind of like having kids. Parents are so pleased when the kids are getting along.

If you are involved in ministry, you know that there will always be times of struggle, miscommunication, and even hurt. There are times when someone will disagree with methods or decisions, and because each of us are different, some of those decisions and practices will really upset someone. Depending on the circumstance, this can be a minor thing, or it can really turn into a barn-burner.

I've been on both sides of these situations. The perspective given in today's scripture is so valuable no matter where you are at. WE'RE ALL ON THE SAME TEAM! I've seen it on the Packer's sidelines just like i've seen it on the Vikings sideline: Two players walking off the field hollering at each other. Usually it's a receiver and a quarterback. They're often fighting about not getting the ball enough, or a blown route, or for fumbling the ball. Sometimes these are minor skirmishes, but none the less they happen.

Players on the same team will make mistakes. That's not what's important. What's important is that we never forget that we're on the same team! I've not yet met anyone who's out for evil intent in ministry. There have been times I've been close to wondering, but when the dust settles, it was usually a matter of miscommunication... a blown route... a fumbled ball. But you know what? That's WHY we're in this together: to help each other along. to strengthen. to encourage.

In the very next verse Paul continues: "Dear brothers, warn those who are lazy; comfort those who are frightened; take tender care of those who are weak; and be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to everyone else." I Thes. 5:14-15

If we live this way, the Body becomes so healthy. The perspective is not lost. There may be hurts, there may still be fumbles & interceptions, but the important thing is that we are a team. This is what unity is about. We're all in this together!




Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!

Pastor Greg Lathe

Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ