And yet, and yet…

On our last podcast, Jonathan and I spoke on the topic of calling. In specific one of the areas of focus is that if we’re faithful in the small and unappreciated areas of life, we can be counted faithful in the big and important areas of life. (There is a Hebrew word for this style of reasoning, but for the life of me I can’t recall it.)

The context of our conversation was talking about David moving from a shepherd to become the King. In between there are stages of being a singer and musician, a warrior, a youngest brother, a best friend, a leader of men, and a renegade. But the question arises of what qualified David to be King? God chose him (obviously a big one) and he was faithful in the small things. His response when he goes to slay Goliath is that he in faith killed the lions that threatened his father’s flock, how much more the Philistine threatening Israel?

When it comes to calling, I recall a time when one of my jobs as a Youth Associate was steaming tablecloths for a Graduation Event (while my boss went and played golf…not bitter). At the time, I thought about the ludicrous nature of the circumstances: here I am with a brain full of seminary knowledge and a heart leaping to take the Gospel to those in need of it, and I’m doing a task that is not only thankless, but also befuddling to me. Yet, even then I made the decision to serve with all my heart as working for the Lord and not for men, and rested on that conscious decision.

Fast forward 13 years and I am now an Executive Pastor. What I’ve learned is that the petty lions I had to fight when I was an associate have changed into scarier dragons today. Yet, the same God is faithful to walk with me through these challenges if I’ll be obedient to His purposes and directing.

Friend, you may find yourself right now in the thankless phases of life, serving in pursuit of a calling but in areas so much smaller than your vision. My encouragement to you is the same that Paul directed in Ephesians (while in prison), “Walk in a manner worthy of your calling.” If you will be faithful in the small areas of life, then you can take confidence that you can grow in faithfulness as the investments and risks increase. Trust in God that He will direct your paths and your ambition.

And to close, I hope you’ll remember this advice I give to all my ministry staff: if you’re not willing to take out the trash, then you are not qualified to work in ministry. So take up the Word of God and fight the small battles today, because here be dragons.