Rob Rash on struggling with where you are and where you would like to be:
We’ve all been there haven’t we? We model our ministries after the mega churches and worship conferences. In fact, we even long to be in one of ‘those’ positions someday don’t we? We’ll before we start dreaming about the future, let’s take a look at where we are now.
I’ve served on both sides of the spectrum when it comes to large and small churches. I had the honor and privilege to serve at a ‘mega’ church with unlimited resources as well as at smaller churches barely struggling to pay the electric bill. And I value them both. However, I think the tendency in the worship leader/music circles is to take steps and climb the proverbial mountain. That the goal is to reach Hillsong United heights and once we do, everything will be glorious.
When the truth is, most of us will never serve at a church of that caliber or size or with unlimited resources. And that’s okay. You may find yourself longing and even dreaming the perfect church, but let me gently remind you that it doesn’t exist. Anywhere. Large churches have just as many problems as smaller ones, often times more.
So, if you’re struggling right now with where you are and where you would like to be, let me offer a few suggestions to encourage you to stay faithful.
1. Be committed. Your church needs you. Sure you may not get the pats on the back and someone will always tell you how load the drums are, but keep at it. Commit to the church and help be the change that is needed. God will reward you for this. (Luke 16:10)
2. Love your people. When those desires of a better church start stirring up in you, don’t forget you are called to love the people in your care… right now. This includes the annoying folks too. Love them as Christ loves the church and your whole attitude will shift. (John 15:12)
4. Have realistic expectations. It’s too easy to jump on Newspring’s or Church on the Move’s website and see what they are doing and then duplicate that in our churches. Set realistic expectations for your church and team and slowly work at getting them to the next level. This only happens with time.
4. Love your calling. God has called you to a specific time and a specific place. You are not where you are by accident and God has a specific plan for you. Again, stay faithful to God and His present calling in your life. (Acts 17:26-27)
Now let me push on you a little too. My intent in this post is to encourage you, not to let you off the hook. There is still work to be done, dreams to dream, visions to shoot for, and ministry to take care of. So work your butt off and serve God and the church faithfully.
Hang in there friends and remember that we’re all in this together.