I have to agree with pretty much everything that the others have posted before me. This year in DBS, like Jennifer said, God was a good and patient teacher, but I was such a slow learner. He was gracious, I was selfish. He was patient, and I was lacking patience. But because His grace is far greater than my inefficiencies, I learned and will share with you all a bit of His work in my life.
1. God is the composer and conductor, I am merely an instrument. To be honest, I love the excitement of the last minute changes, plans failing and then re planning, having to run from place to place and make tens of phone calls to reshuffle plans. I get excited when time comes, everything seems to “fall into place.” I like to say that it’s all because I love seeing God work things out in His planning, His timing, and His way. However, I have to say that it’s also because I like to think that what I did was good, or my ideas worked. In my pride, I liked the credit. But again and again, God reminded me of my place in this world. I was to be a faithful instrument for His purposes and His ways. I couldn’t take credit for any of it. Throughout this year, this verse was a constant reminder of what was more important, “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves.” ~2 Corinthians 4:7
2. “Rejoice always, again I say REJOICE!” In light of all the things that happened, good or bad, I knew that the mere privilege of serving the Lord in this ministry, the Gospel being shared and heard, and the handful of hearts that repented and believed brought glory to God and a host of angels to rejoice in heaven. Our true joy does not come from circumstantial things or the results of our efforts. But based on what God has already done. In times of trials, struggles with ministry, remembering this helped to turn my gaze back on Christ and rejoice in all circumstances!
3. A Pure and Simple Devotion to the Lord. Simple enough. Love God first and foremost. Love the Gospel. Love the ministry. Love your small groupies actively. Love those around you. And do not neglect to tend to your own heart. Feed and surround your soul with truth!
