Sometimes taking a step back is the best way to advance. How’s that?<\/p>\n
Well, have you ever joined a new church and then had to sit there for a good long while before your gifts were recognized and accepted? You can probably volunteer to cook for the church potluck or pass out fliers right off the bat, but not teach or preach or sing solos until you pay some spiritual dues.<\/p>\n
That’s wisdom on the part of the leadership of the church. They need time to get to know you and your maturity level before allowing you the authority to affect the flock. A good pastor protects his sheep, but it might be frustrating for you. Can’t they see how much they’re missing not using your gifts?<\/p>\n
If this has happened to you, relish the time in which you humble yourself and submit to God’s timing. What is happening is that you are taking the lowest seat at the wedding feast until the one who invited you calls you up higher. (See Jesus’ parable about those who choose the best seats in Luke 14:7-11)<\/p>\n
This does not mean you should sit on or stuff your gifts; we are talking here about an attitude of heart. Are you willing to simply be a servant for awhile, doing any job that needs doing, regardless of how menial? Sooner or later someone will come to you and say; “Friend, go up higher.”<\/b> (Luke 14:10) And that’s when your step back advances you to the head of the line.<\/p>\n
“For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted”<\/b> (Luke 14:11).<\/p>\n
Listen to the audio version here:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n