2 Years

God's timing is His timing. I cannot argue with this. That being said, my experience is that it takes about 2 years in a ministry place before you can see great amounts of ministry begin to pay off. By the LORD's blessing I am beginning to see some really great things happen in the lives of students and parents. They are growing and maturing. Some of them have a genuine desire to make an impact for the Kingdom and be used by God to draw others into his Kingdom. How amazing is that?

Volunteers are appearing and taking shape and relationships are deepening with those who God uses to connect with others.

I can see Jesus' Spirit moving among his people during difficult times, during joyous times, and all times in between.

Minister friends, longevity is important. Twice, I have moved to a new ministry and twice I have seen the toll it takes on the lives of those our LORD was using us to impact. It creates an atmosphere of fear among those in the church. This is not good. People just assume you will be gone in a short while. Who wants to get involved with that? Who wants to risk their life and open them self to love a person they are afraid will be taken from them soon. The answer is few people. So stick around, unless God makes it clear you are to go, stick around. Love those around you, invest in someone and make them like your own family. It is still tough, the hours can be long, the heartbreak can be intense, disappointment is sometimes part of it, but to leave those people to fend while you go to try to make yourself happy and content can have worse consequences for those you leave behind.

Ministry is like a marriage, and to leave is like a divorce. I do not see those working out well for the children involved.

LORD I pray, keep me content unless you have otherwise. Make my heart pure, beating for you. Give me ears to hear your Spirit guide me and remind me of Your word and eyes to see people as you see them. Finally, give me a heart and will faithful to You and Your people here, knowing that You are faithful and provide in all circumstances.