"It Might Get a Little Messy"
Judges 4:1-5:31
Luke 22:35-53
Psalm 94:1-23
Proverbs 14:3-4
Some people have a reputation for neatness. Me? not so much... A friend of mine, whom I choose not to implicate, has similar "organizational" skills to me. We've talked about collaborating to write a book on organizational systems. The premise is "none of it works". We've tried various types of organizers, daily planners, scented candles.... ok, not that far, but for some reason, no matter what, the desk gets messy. I've actually now brought in reinforcements, and am only able to keep neat with outside help.
With all of that in mind, I have a new favorite verse:
"An empty stable stays clean - but there is no income from an empty stable." (Prov. 14:4 TLB)
Of course, I'm joking about this being a verse to justify my mess, but I do feel there is a great truth in this short passage.
The NLT says, "Without oxen a stable stays clean, but you need a strong ox for a large harvest." Excuse the metaphor, but it is saying in essence, "if you want a harvest, you also need a shovel."
I often allude to the danger of this place called "Comfort Zone". It's lure can subtly paralyze the believer from living up to the potential that God has for them. It would be so great if life could be "neat & clean" all the time. It would be great if there were no unexpected turns, and no giants in the path... No "irritating" people. Imagine the thrill that would be...
I believe this verse shows a principle of "Active Ministry Involvement". When we take the risk to use the time, talent, and resources God has given us for his glory, we have to understand that sometimes there's residue on the stable floor. Serving God takes work. We have to make sure, however that the fact that there might be some mess, and maybe even a little smell, we can't think "this must not be God's will... this is supposed to be easy!" We have to constantly remind ourselves that we are doing what God has called us to do. Our faithfulness and responsibility shouldn't falter because of circumstances.
This verse also applies to "Relationships Devoted to Unity". As we mature in Christ and are in the process of discipling one another as well as being discipled, there will be times that interpersonal conflict arises. This can be with friends, leaders, and those you lead. We must understand that this is a necessary part of the process of harvest. The situations in life bring our character issues to the surface so they can be dealt with. That happens for others, too. We need to help one another through that.
Sometimes the conflict comes from "getting in trouble". Psalm 94:12 says, "Joyful are those you discipline, Lord, those you teach with your instructions." We need to always remember that discipline brings us into alignment. This is all a part of the great harvest to come!
Don't focus on the mess on the stable floor. Look to the fields at what God is doing through your labors. It can be tough to see when all you've got is rubber boots and a shovel, but know that God is completing his work in you and through you in ALL things.
Don't fear the smell! Live the DREAM!
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
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