It really is quite easy to become completely misguided. I think of this in terms of trouble-shooting a problem in a car. If you get on the wrong track it is frustration in abundance.
It is my observation that, that condition of being on the wrong track has been a condition in our churches for many years now. I remember a friend speaking with me regarding the search a church was making for a new pastor. He said it resembled a football organization making a decision on a number one draft choice. They evaluated his education, his skills, talents and potential, his age, his family and his connections. They wanted the best they could find and lure into their pulpit. Such a process is likely commendable if an organization like Apple or IBM is looking for a new CEO, but there is no place for such business in our churches. Not that our pastors ought not be well trained and skilled in their work, but our trust is not in them, it is to be in the Lord:
Jeremiah 17:5 Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.
You may say that I am being altogether too harsh, but I doubt that! Our attention needs to be on God and His leading and provision; other matters are to be subject to that. I cite this just as one illustration of how we begin to trust in ourselves, our efforts, skills and ideas in the Christian ministry rather that trust in God. Consider this following verse in Jeremiah:
Jeremiah 17:7 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.
In conclusion apply this verse from the New Testament:
John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
Just a word to the wise!
