Humility In Leadership

 

Some of the strongest people I know are leading in humility. Today, humility is seen as a weakness and not a variable for leadership. Yet, God's directives towards His men and woman, of whom He has called; leads us to aspire for this specific character trait. 

I love this quote: 

"A humble leader is a confident leader, knowing who they are what they can do. A prideful leader is an overconfident leader trying to convince other people that they are good enough to be doing what they are   doing. Humility is a strength."

['Giant' is the name of this website for leaders.]

Cockiness has been a trait that has always unnerved me, especially when I see it in myself! I recall when I graduated from Bible college, I was at an age 'I knew it all!' Let me tell you, I am so grateful for humble men and woman who put up with me back then (especially my husband). It took God putting a teachable spirit in me and causing me to fall on my face countless times. LESSON LEARNED! And honestly, I still am learning too

Rick Warren wrote;

 "True humility is not thinking less of yourself it is thinking of yourself less."

Let's look at the fruits of humility; how it grows within oneself and affects others. 

First, a humble leader exhibits great strength, they know that he or she doesn't have to prove themselves. Yet, a prideful leader is always trying to prove him or herself.  The humble leader's strength exhibits profoundly because, quite frankly, it is not his strength, but God's! 

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped;" 

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped;...." 

Ps. 28:7

"The Lord is my strength and my song." Ps. 118:14

Second, a humble leader never thinks of himself. They are always serving others. Their passion for their God, is seen for their love for others. They live their lives putting the needs of someone else before themselves.

Third, this leader (he or she) is gentle and meek. I would label this also as being considerate of others and giving them much grace. That is NOT easy whatsoever, but if we look at people through the eyes of God and His Word; it will give us the heart to serve them where their need is.  

Fourth, a humble leader is generous. This is with his finances, time, emotions, and energies. Again, we go back to this type of leader as being selfless. As he or she walks in humility, this gives the leader an opportunity to touch lives in deep and needed ways, by ministering to both to the hearts of people and their physical needs. 

Fifth, a humble leader is full of great zeal! His energy is serving God and others! Because this is a quality that comes from God himself the Lord is faithful to equip our servant leader with great zeal and strength! I love that old chorus that goes:

"The zeal of God has consumed me,

it burns within my soul.

A driving force that cannot be stopped,

A fire that cannot be quenched."

Sixth; A leader who leads with humility is prudent. Prudence is defined by wisdom, discreet, and excellent in managing affairs. Proverbs speaks considerably about prudence. As a humble leader, one might say prudence is a fruit of humility. Why? Because a humble leader cares deeply about pleasing God and serving others, thus he or she finds it a great help to embrace prudence. 

Seventh, a humble leader must be like Jesus!  Philippians 2:5-9

"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:  Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:"

To be like Jesus is the key to walking in humility as a leader!

When I am in the presence of a humble leader; I feel relaxed, accepted and my walls come down. All because I feel their genuine heart of love, wanting to truly be there to help and serve. 

Let's all listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit as we continue to walk in the call God has placed upon our lives as leaders. The Spirit is calling us to walk in the steps of our Lord and Savior in Humility. 

Serving Him with you,

Daneille Snowden

Preach The Word

 

Here Brad & Daneille Snowden encourage you, ministers of the Gospel to continue to walk in the call God has given you to do. 

From 2 Timothy 4:2; we delve into his verse bringing in a clearer vision and instruction on how to minister today. 

Find us also on Podbean, Youversion, and several more podcasts. 

In Him, 

Brad & Daneille

HOPE FOR THE GENERATIONS

The Call To Be A Watchman

 

Our Divine Call from God can sometimes feel ominous! Yet, He has always promised us He will never leave us nor forsake us! He told this to Joshua as he led his people into the promise land. He is doing that for us too today. Listen and be encouraged!

Hope For The Generations Pilot (Intro)

 Welcome to our first podcast for Hope For the Generations. A simple introduction on who we are and the objective of this podcast. 

May God's Blessing fully enrapture you! 

Hope 4 The Generations New Website & New Podcast Sites

 Hope 4 The Generations  

 

We are thrilled to share with you about our new podcast: Hope 4 The Generations. With 33 years of hands-on experience in the ministry as evangelism/outreach pastors, children pastors, senior pastors and currently itinerate missionaries (to Africa) we want to give our support and love to all who are serving God on various assignments.

We want you to know: YOU ARE NOT ALONE! First and foremost God said; "He will never leave nor forsake us!" (Hebrews 13:5)  God is with us; He empowers, comforts and leads us.

He also has equipped us all with fellow brothers and sisters who are serving in the ministry to work together. Also to pray for one another, as we build one another up in the faith. 

We will be sharing here and on our podcasts words to ignite your heart to continue moving forward in the call God has placed upon your lives. 

Please read past blogs posted here; as we know they will help you understand the twists and turns of the ministry. Talk to us too! Share questions you might have, and if you have a personal need do not hesitate to tell us as we shall pray for you. Looking forward toward future interactions as we walk through these days of great challenges, yet amazing victories!  

In Him,

Brad & Daneille

              Find us on:

Podbean 

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Pandora 

Listen Now

I 💓 

Amazon Alexa

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE FALSLY ACCUSED?

copyright(c)2019 Daneille Gray Snowden

2019 

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE FALSLY ACCUSED? 

I recently posted this on my story on Facebook and Instagram:

This is one of those 'hard-truths' faced in the ministry. Actually, even in life itself. 

How we handle this as leaders is the most significant next step we will take in this journey of serving others; as we are in service for our Lord. 

We could REACT,  and that is not always a bad thing, it's HOW WE REACT that we must ponder. 

Truthfully, when things are said about us and even to us that is not true; as the deliverer of this 'so-called' information is convinced it is definitely true...this cuts deep into our own souls.

I have seen pastors being told many things when these 'accusers' definitely did not have the correct information. 

Sometimes;  the Holy Spirit will lead us to just keep our mouths shut. At least for a time. 

Matthew 5:38-40  “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’  But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.  If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also.

My husband and I have had to do this; even recently. Our hopes and prayers were that the individual would eventually see the truth, or would possibly allow the Lord to touch their hearts to see things in a godly/spiritual way. 

Time and time again we kept quiet. Did it hurt? Oh yes...deeply.

This is where we need to be aware of  hurts turning into spite and bitterness, remembering 'why' the Lord told us to "be quiet."

2 Chron. 20:17 "You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you,..."

Then, there are times the boldness of the Holy Spirit says; "Rise up and speak the truth (defending ourselves)!" Yet, seasoned with grace and much love. Ha! Is that ever a challenge to our human nature. But, He is faithful to equip us. Ya see; we are still dying to self and yet still standing up for who we are in Christ. 

Ex. 4:15 "You are to speak to him and put the words in his mouth; and I, even I, will be with your mouth and his mouth, and I will teach you what you are to do."

Isn't it interesting to walk this 'walk' in life?

It is so different than what this world would advise us to do.

Remember: His ways are far different than our ways! 

Although, our goal is to be like Jesus! "But He answered him not one word, so that

 the governor marveled greatly." Matt. 27:14

He was accused; and stood silent. 

I also think of Job, who as we read in the beginning of this book of wisdom, was known as the most righteous man on earth. 

Still, his closest of friends; ASSUMED THEY KNEW his thoughts and secret sins ...thus they knew why he was suffering so much.

They were accusing of him by what they assumed. They truly believed what they thought. {Still, they were so wrong!}

I cannot even begin to imagine the deep cut into Job's heart by this; especially after all the suffering he was walking through. 

You think times have changed, but they haven't.

Man is still man; pride is still pride and people will continue to say what they think without bridling their tongues.

So, as a leader...

First: know you are not alone. 

Second; your God see's and hears what has been said and done to you. He has this as you keep it in His Hands.

Third; ask Him to lead your heart, then your lips as you speak  at a timely fashion in a loving way. Realizing even though this has been spoken about you; it's not about you. It's about the enemy distorting God's work. For you are His vessel, doing His Work.

Fourthly; Do not allow the hurt to sit in your soul. Pray, worship, get counsel from a spirit led, wise advisor. Surrender it and keep focused on your Lord Jesus...press on!

God is using you, or the enemy wouldn't be trying to intimidate you. 

Rise up my fellow warrior; and march on!

WHAT'S YOUR PURPOSE?

copyright(c)2017 Daneille Gray Snowden

2017

WHAT'S YOUR PURPOSE?

The Lord has been speaking to me about  'PURPOSE'; 'The God Purpose' for ALL OF OUR LIVES! He has intensely burdened me for ones who God has many plans for (quite frankly, that is everyone);  yet are not  listening, or willing to walk this particular path. Wow, this type of a 'WALKING PATH' --- 

is a CLOSE WALK WITH JESUS! It's quite intimate as you feel His Hand Holding and guiding you along; results are that we are being filled with  deep peace and a great joyful anticipation as well! 

LOOK 👉

PURPOSE: deliberate plans for our lives. 

It is the -

SOURCE OF TRUE HAPPINESS which is done by living-out the purpose God has for all of us. 

GOD'S WAYS = TRUE PURPOSE

"And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day." Gen. 32:24 

I.) JACOB first had to be ALONE!  --- OUCHA! Nobody really likes loneliness... we can't even keep our phones far from us cause we long for some kind of human contact. 

BUT... this is where we will HEAR AND FIND OUR GOD;  we are NEVER ALONE ANYWAYS!

II.) Jacob had to wrestle God...ONE WHO WAS STRONGER THAN HE WAS! This is where we travail in prayer, it's where we (self) wrestle not against God but truly longing for our flesh to be placed under His subjection: His power for HIS BLESSING!

Is this where the 'CROSS' ROADS MEET? 

WHERE MANY STOP AND NOT GO ON?

✞

Think about it; look what has happened to the alter in our churches and our prayer meetings? 

What about  praying through there and even in the alters of our homes?

III.) He Persevered All Night Long ("...till the break of day.")  --- Finding our purpose takes time, it takes fighting, it takes waiting and never giving up.

Gen. 32:26 "But Jacob said, “I will not let You go unless You declare a blessing on me.” 

It takes:

IV.) ONE TOUCH FROM THE KING OF KINGS...ONE BECKON CALL! 

To be labelled: 

*MY CHOSEN

*MY CALLED ONE

*ENTER INTO THE PLACE OF YOUR CALLING

“For you are a holy people to the LORD your God; the LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples on the face of the earth." Deuteronomy 7:6-8

WHERE HAS GOD CALLED YOU?

WHAT AND TO WHO ARE YOU TO SPEAK  HIS LOVE AND WORD INTO?

Is this difficult to truly answer?

Has the path taken an abrupt change down another road of purpose? [It happens.]

This is definitely a road where we don't walk BY looking in the mirror of 'self!' Truly, where would that lead?

It's a path where GOD IS... where we clearly see and hear Him!

Where we will see the FRUIT of FAITHFULNESS living an obedient surrendered life in Him!

I know the ministry is HARD and 

it is very lonely!  

But, if we WALK IN THE PURPOSE God has ...NOT MAN'S, NOT OURS...BUT GOD'S --- the rewards are priceless!

Are you at a CROSSROADS right now? 

Take time out....sometimes that means a lot of time. 😃⏲

Wait in God's Presence! 

Wrestling will happen if you continue forward --- it's a good thing. Don't stop...for the 

BLESSING IS AROUND THE CORNER! 

The CALL OF OUR GOD /  HIS LEADING TO WHERE - TO WHOM -  & THE WHEN... indeed will come!

SEE THE PURPOSE HE HAS FOR YOU! IT IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord.
 
“For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways
And My thoughts higher than your thoughts."

Is. 55:8-9

WALKING WOUNDED

copyright(c)2016 Daneille Gray Snowden

2016

WALKING  WOUNDED

Imagine this, you get injured and have an open wound that possibly sliced some nerves and ligaments.

Yet, you are just too busy to properly get it fixed which would entail; stitching, repairs, antibiotics and most importantly: time to heal (including therapy).

 As time goes by the outer wound heals after fighting off pain plus possible infection. Yet,  if not attended too; a torn ligament for example, can result in weakness in the muscles. Eventually, it could even affect and injure the muscles and tendons trying to compensate for the weakness of the 'un-healed' injury.

Recently, the Lord took me to this particular issue of un-healed wounds. He showed me how it's up to us if we are truly healed within. He gives us a 'REMEDY' to follow.

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"He lets me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still and quiet waters.
He refreshes and restores my soul (life);..."

Ps. 23:2,3a 

Photo by Tabitha Carin Snowden

This is a remedy to a wounded heart! It's the 'time' to heal; a therapy that 'STILLS' us enough to HEAL, plus be strengthen. Our culture measures success on 'staying-busy'; if you are not you are regarded as lazy, basically wasting your time. Instead of listening to the leading of God's Word; we bid to the craziness of a spinning world as we chase after each crisis and daily activities.

Let's take a look at what the  'GREEN PASTURES' & 'STILL WATERS' are:

He leads by His tender guidance - [He leads, less I wander.]

"He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young."

Isaiah 40:11

This brings sustenance, providing rest, and enjoying tranquility, peace, and safety; in the green pastures.

Photo by Tabitha Carin Snowden

*TENDER GRASS was the 'first-shoots' that were tender enough to not only walk on, but also to lay upon. Plus, it was the most nutritious grass to feast for the shepherd's weary sheep. 

The green pastures; "literally means, in grassy homesteads - " the richer, oasis-like spots, where a homestead would be fixed in a barren tract of land." THE BEST!

Think about this for a moment; this takes time and then using that restful, time to be fed, strengthened and restored to completeness.

*STILL WATERS:

Photo by Tabitha Carin Snowden

"Waters of rests, or refreshments: quiet and gentle waters, running in small and shallow channels, which are opposed to great rivers, that frighten sheep with their great noise, and expose them to be carried away by their swift and violent streams, while they are drinking at them." [Commentary- Bible Hub]

Where do we go for healing? Is it somewhere like this? Peaceful, quiet, nourishing???
Think about it; seriously -- as ministers and even Christians where do we go? Do we watch a movie?
Play games, or go work even more?

This is the place the shepherd: 

https://equipherlife.com/2011/06/23/the-shepherds-oil/

-Counts His sheep.
-Inspects them.
-Pours healing oils and ointments on their wounds.
-Makes sure they are eating and drinking.
-He comforts them all.
Many times shepherds were known to sing to their sheep, which caused them to feel safe and calm. He would prod with His staff those who needed to be moved out of danger and into a closer place with Him.

Oh, we sheep can be quite stubborn and more so, those of us who have been deeply wounded think we can 'keep going!'  NOT SO! Remember the scenario stated above!

My daughter had broke her leg as she was spending the night at a friends house. She had been jumping on a little trampoline and 'SNAP!' But, she continued to play on it because she didn't want to go home. She wanted to stay and have fun with her friend...EVEN THOUGH SHE WAS IN PAIN!
Of course the next day; after being home for several hours she showed me her leg which was purple and swollen. She kept jumping on a broken leg; causing even more injury.

Can we just listen to our SHEPHERD; to the One Who made us ...

"For he knoweth our frame;..."

Ps. 103:14

I love that old worship chorus: "Let's take time, to wait upon the Lord. Let's take time to listen to His Voice. Unless the Lord builds the House, we labor in vain; so let's take time to wait upon the Lord."

I have said it and I know just about everyone else has too; "I DON'T HAVE TIME TO WAIT, TO REST AND LAY BESIDE THE STILL WATERS."

YET...we are the same folks who grumble and complain, or cry over our wounded hearts and needs.

It reminds me of a typical individual who longs to loose weight, and learns about the 'how-to' the do's and don'ts; but still doesn't make the efforts to follow it. Then complains about not feeling good and being over-weight.  [I know, I've done that! 😉]

Look at Psalms 23:1 

"The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me],
I shall not want."

 Then verse 2b :

"HE LEADS ME..."

The Lord kinda gave me HIS FATHERLY TONE; when I wanted to declare I have not had the time or place to be HEALED (and strengthened). "I have limited time, income and resources"; I told Him.

"Then dear one; YOU ARE NOT ALLOWING ME TO LEAD YOU!"  He replied.

OUCH!

What we are telling God, is I rather just go on with my un-healed wounds, and even cause more instability in my life than to trust YOU FATHER, to take me to those 'still-quiet places'; for healing.

'The place of TIME and even space; where He can take HIS TIME in HIS PRESENCE to operate on our inner being.'
~Daneille Snowden

We clearly see, written by one of the wisest men ever to live that TIME for every purpose is DESIGNED by our ALL-MIGHTY / ALL-KNOWING God! [Ecclesiastes 3:1-8] Verse 3b says:

"...a time to heal;..."

Yet, we still won't 'BE STILL' enough to HEAL! Hear the Lord crying out to His children; FOLLOW ME,  and wherever I take you, I will CARE for you. Even when we need to rest beside the still waters and have healing balm applied to our hearts: trust God with everything else. Life is not going to end there; it's just a period of time set aside for healing and restoration.

Remember, every TIME has it's PURPOSE. Let's not miss out on the purpose the Shepherd has for LEADING US beside the still waters, and tender pastures. Oh His Words will speak VOLUMES to our souls; His anointing oil will cleanse and mend our hearts, His Spirit will infuse His sweetness causing us to sing and dance again!

Take time, if you know you've been wounded and never took out the proper time and place to be healed; ask the Lord to lead. Allow Him to open your ears to hear and feet prepped, ready to go wherever He leads.

~Daneille

WHERE HE LEADS ME 

By E. W. Blandy

"Where He leads me I will follow,

Where He leads me I will follow,

Where He leads me I will follow,

I’ll go with Him, with Him all the way."

MINISTER RESOURCE PLACES TO BE REFRESHED & RESTORED LINK:

http://enrichmentjournal.ag.org/retreats.pdf  -- This link will take you to several links located all across the U.S. For evangelical pastors across the denominational table. Check it out!

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2 OF OUR FAVORITES: Camp Victory 
ADDRESS: 363 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477  PHONE: 334-898-7948  FAX: 334-898-7947 EMAIL: office@campvictoryal.org  WEBSITE: www.campvictoryal.org  CONTACT: Bill Richoux 
 --------
Beside Still Waters 
ADDRESS: Taylor Family Foundation, Inc., 1111 9th Ave W, Suite E, Bradenton, FL 34205 TOLL FREE: 877-608-0999 PHONE:   941-744-1977 FAX: 941-744-1973 email: tffkathie@verizon.net WEB:www.beside-stillwaters.org Beside Still Waters Blog  http://besidestillwaters.wordpress.com/ CONTACT: Katherine Kittsmiller

PASTOR'S DEALING WITH THE LIES OF OTHERS

  copyright(c)2016 Daneille Gray Snowden

2016

Art by Rev. Paul F. Gray - Retired Pastor of over 50 years in the ministry.

PASTOR'S DEALING WITH THE LIES OF OTHERS

The first time I saw this banner my own father drew many years ago, my heart sunk into my stomach. My husband, Brad and I were just starting the Pastorate ministry. I had grown-up in a Pastor's home, and saw this ugly-hurt that afflicted my parents deeply.

Yet, their response to this type of attack, is why I even today, can continue doing what God called us to do. Droves of people leave churches, and pastors quit because of an ugly weapon called the 'TONGUE'.

Being we all are human, all kinds of emotions fill our bleeding hearts. It's how we entertain those emotions that is vital to healing and then achieve victory.

Sins of the flesh rise over and over again in every home all across the globe; including the House of God.  If one is battling a babbling tongue that strikes 'deep-pain' have a teachable/pliable heart. This would allow the Holy Spirit to contain the HEART...thus the tongue would be tamed.

Yet, this does not happen quite enough does it? My own husband [Pastor Brad Snowden] and also my father [Rev. Paul Gray]; taught me a long time ago (when dealing with those who do spread gossip/lies about us and our church), is that we must first and foremost pray for them. Thus, not say a word, until it is 'for-sure' COVERED by the Blood...in our own minds, spirit and hearts. Thus, our response - if there is one; will be that of the Spirit and not the flesh.

Secondly, when we do have to approach this matter - we do so tenderly and cautiously using the Wisdom from God's Word to guide us. Recall what our own Lord Jesus, when He said;

"But I say to you, do not resist an evil person [who insults you or violates your rights]; but whoever slaps you on the right cheek, turn the other toward him also [simply ignore insignificant insults or trivial losses and do not bother to retaliate—maintain your dignity, your self-respect, your poise]." Matt. 5:38-40

Thirdly, in dealing with the injury as it happens: The 'episode' can be a few minutes, and sometimes years regardless ; there is an injury that inflicts, isn't there? It causes a deep wound that makes your heart sick. Here is a list the defines the infliction:

1) We call this the grieving of the Holy Spirit. It was never the Lord's Will for His Children to divide- but be One.

2) The Fruits of the Spirit were spoiled in this situation.

3) Grieving the loss of a brother/sister (spiritual) friendship-hurts.

4) There is nothing we can do about it. It happened, and we must come to realize that we cannot control what comes out of the mouth of others.

 I am a mother in many ways; I want to lovingly nurture and teach my 'children' to get along, forgive and move forward [meaning in the church]. BUT... it doesn't jive when the SIN OF FLESH, PRIDE, LIES & GOSSIP come forth.

A question by many pastors and their wives I get is; "What do we do about the constant lies that continue and even those who so choose to believe them?"

First of all, I don't have a perfect answer, because every situation is different. We must realize that it all does come from ONE PLACE (doesn't it)!

'LIES ARE FROM THE PIT OF HELL!'

"You are of your father the devil, and it is your will to practice the desires [which are characteristic] of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks what it natural to him, for he is a liar and the father of lies and half-truths." Jn. 8:44 

Thus, our approach should be viewed clearly as 'SPIRITUAL WARFARE' -- and we must fast and pray! It's important to ask  others to pray, even without giving details (so you don't fall prey to the gossip as well).  I guarantee that in an amazing way and perfect time --- your heart and spirit will be healed. I have faced this over and over again being in the ministry my entire life; Yet -

"I've never seen the righteous forsaken..." Ps. 37:25

By Artist Maureen Dean Order
here. [click her name]

Next, we have to surrender this into the Hands of our Lord, that is all the words, lies and even all the hurt. This can be happen in an instant, or require an all night prayer meeting (smile), and simply day-by-day. It has been all three for me. Once this hurt has healed me (although the junk may be still spreading around) - I then experience the warmth of God's Healing touch, and then my spirit is  lightened! 
It's true! I shake my head in bewilderment, knowing my own tendencies - and I truly feel God has it all. Thus, I am able to 'HOLD MY HEAD HIGH'; no matter what is said and done. PtL!

Then, there are the 'meetings'. Yes, unfortunately; the 'official' meeting of the dispute does come at least 50% or less of the time. I rather go to a dentist...I hate 'conflict'- don't you? Who likes it? Well, unfortunately there are ones who embellish it. [SAD] How do we this?
1) Witnesses...get witnesses; your church leadership. Godly people about 3 to 5. 
2) Openness...hide nothing.  
3) Your leadership over you. In our case, a presbyter. This is if it hasn't been resolved. This is RARE.
4) Leave the meeting with a peaceful salutation. No matter how it ends. 
5) Some do not let it go, they simply want their way. If their way does NOT happen at this meeting; they will want another meeting. [A tormenting spirit; that wants control.]  END IT!  You have done all you can on your part. 
* Prayer  *Openness  *Communication  *Bring witnesses in  *Leadership brought in.

YOU'RE DONE!

6) Move on - be an excellent example to the flock & your family by displaying God's Powerful Love.

I truly believe: "All things work together for good, to them that LOVE God, and to them Who are THE CALLED according to HIS purpose." Rom. 8:28

May the Lord bless, strengthen and continue to anoint you as you GO FORWARD-- ministering for Him.

If you need to talk, or prayer; just write me and I will be 'in-touch'!
~Daneille
   

PASTOR; DO YA GOT THAT 'SINKING-FEELING'?

 copyright(c)2015 Daneille Gray Snowden

2015 

PASTOR; DO YA GOT THAT 'SINKING-FEELING'?

link

I WANT TO ENCOURAGE PASTORS THAT YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

By Daneille Gray Snowden

The call of God upon a man or woman, (when answered) totally breaths another type of life and even character into their lives. God's Heart is captured within, causing great passion for a dying world to be shown a way of salvation. As we pastors grow in our call; by serving others and spending intimate time in communion with our Lord; this PASSION intensifies greatly.  So much so, it becomes greatly what we think and talk about ALL THE TIME; which then causes our feet to move and our hands to reach out.

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By serving others within this place, position, and opportunity is the mode that turns the wheels of our calling. We LOVE-to-LOVE others by teaching them the WAY of hope and life; this of course is by the Word of God being ministered weekly. We love to listen, be a shoulder for one's to cry on, and offer sound advice coupled with the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

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As the world changes all around; in individuals lives, our communities and such: the Lord is true to giving VISION' for the ministry God has brought them to. The scripture; "Without a vision, the people will perish." (Prov. 29:18) is the energy source to compel the called man and/or woman of God to propel themselves into the Presence of their God. Why? For it's God's Vision (not man's), and Call for the Work in the Harvest!

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Atlantic Ocean Road

As we dwell on this aspect, allow me to take you down a difficult roadway for many pastors today. They have this call, God's Heart-Beat pounding intensely within; yet their voices don't seem to be heard. God's Word is preached, prayer and fasting is being practiced, God is filling the minister with His blessed Spirit that gives great 'unction' to continue the work. Still, Pastor's telephone and visit, trying whatever avenue the Lord leads them to minister; and the response is not there. God's blessed presence is felt during the worship time in the service, the Pastor preaches (filled with love) with great affection and still; there is a deafening silence.

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Pastor, if you are there; you understand when church is over you feel an aching deep within your spirit. With a gentle smile, hugs around the necks of your parishioner's and kind words (plus quick counseling sessions); the doors are closed and locked and another service is over. Or is it? We all know and do believe God's Word doesn't return void, He is working on everyone's hearts and minds what was delivered that Sunday. It's not over inside the Pastor and even their entire family either. All week long, this is the day you anticipate to be used by the Lord for lives to be changed for His Glory. Yet another service, is over;  seemingly, it seems fruit is not multiplying.

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There are ministries where the Word falls on healthy soil and God multiplies the fruit that comes forth. These ministries are filled with intercessors. There is a loving unity that abides within the Body; where brothers and sisters in Christ are just that: a family. They find it difficult to say goodbye when it's time to part. Yet, many pastors (who are true & quite genuine in their love for God & people); are in a pastorship that see's little of what a healthy church has.

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2 Timothy 3:1-5               

"But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people."

 Difficult passage of scripture; yet we all KNOW truly that this is in all the world; those who are "lovers of self - more than lovers of God."  The FRUIT of this is destruction; "It is the most destructive influence upon interpersonal relationships imaginable. It eliminates concern for the other person’s welfare and sucks the life out of any meaningful communication. It is the first sin of the universe, when Adam and Eve chose themselves over God, and it tops the list of sins that God hates" [Dr. Dan Hayden]

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This self love has been the break down of the church. When we note that priorities are based on the factor of: 'me'; other's needs are neglected (including God's). How does this affect Pastors? Those who do not allow anger to fester, still do deal with intense frustration; who feel a gnawing eating within their hearts. To be frank; it is MISERABLE! God's LIFE GIVING SPIRIT; has led the Pastor (and his entire family) to a ministry to bring LIFE. But, it's just not being received!



Here is where the Pastor battles his own emotions of loss on what to do and how to reach out, thus that leans to sadness. Feeling bewildered, realizing God's Heart; a Pastor (who is earnest in his call), approaches each day of service only knowing one thing: BE FAITHFUL.  The difficulty lies, seeing one's self and their family in disarray. Worn, but knowing God well enough that He will take care of them. The Pastor asks God the question; "Do I continue...do I keep going on, year after year, with no fruit?" Saying to his / her Lord; "God, I want to love them with Your love...I NEED to be used of You to cultivate the harvest of souls. Help me, God: I feel as if I am slowly dying not being USED UP for You!"

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Slowly dying, ouch! Not spiritually, but ministerially and emotionally. Do pastors admit that to one

another? I think not! But, there are several ministries (churches) that are in this very 'state'. There are some pastors too, who are feeling (as they long to serve) that they are slowly sinking and their feet are just getting heavier. The support in prayer, affirmation, and finances (sometimes)  is just simply non existent.

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Seek out a friend, a godly man or woman who is truly in 'touch' with the leading of the Holy Spirit. This person may or may not be a fellow pastor, or minister but can also be one who is passionate about serving the Lord and others. Confide this to them, pour your heart out. Allow them to pray for you and be your confidant. We need this. I cannot tell you that you need to leave this ministry or stay. But, I can tell you; God see's your faithfulness to Him;

 "For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister." Heb. 6:10

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Hold tightly to the fact your Lord has called you and He is faithful to His promises!



"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

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Please, grab this friend and do this. Try if you are able to get time for refreshing. At this period the Lord may give you amazing strength and guidance. There is nothing like time alone with our God and family.

"Refresh my heart in Christ." Philemon 1:20

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I know several aged ministers who have had those healthy, fruitful churches as well as those dry, unhealthy ones too. What encourages me as a Pastor (with my husband); is the GLOW on their faces (reminding me of Stephen when martyred by Paul) when they speak of ALL THE YEARS of ministry and how many (of their old parishioners) have come to them (even from those barren churches) and tell them how God used them (the aged Pastor) to turn their lives over to the Lord. And how, God blessed in that their families today are serving Jesus.  Ya see, we just don't know; only God knows. Hang on my friend, God is making a way. Meanwhile, draw strength from the WELL, being filled with His refreshing!

"To this end I labor, struggling with all His energy, which so powerfully works in me." Colossians 1:29

Read the words to Rend Collective's song, More Than Conquerors :

"When my hope and strength is gone
You're the one who calls me on
You are the life
You are the fight
That's in my soul

We are more than conquerors, through Christ
You have overcome this world, this life....

...Nothing is impossible
Every chain is breakable
With You, we are victorious
You are stronger than our hearts
You are greater than the dark
With You, we are victorious..."

My friend; God is greater than our hearts...He is stronger...WE ARE VICTORIOUS!