by Steve Cordle
John 1:13 tells us that those who come to faith in Christ are “children born not of natural descent, not of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”
Leadership and minstry can be spoken of in a similar way. Ministry which flows from God’s Spirit and initiative has a distinctly different flavor than that which comes from human ingenuity and will.
The NT repeatedly shows ministry flowing out of time alone with God. Consider, for example:
Luke 9:18 – “Once when Jesus was praying in private and his disciples were with him, he asked them ‘”Who do the crowds say that I am?'” [Jesus’ time of prayer leads to this breakthrough for the disciples’ understanding of who He is.]
Acts 10:9 – About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray.” [Then comes revelation the Gentiles are to be part of the church].
Acts 13:2 – As the church was worshipping and fasting, the Spirit speaks to set apart Paul and Barnabas for mission work.
The book of Revelation was given as John was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day.
In my experience, most of the enduring and effective ministry ideas come out of time with God. It may be less manageable or predictable to minister this way, but much more fruitful too!