We are going to do what we do...

I was reminded in Tony Dungy's book Quiet Strength that one of the most important things in life is to stay the course. No matter what happens, no matter what adversity or trouble we come across we need to continue doing what we do. What does that mean exactly, you ask? Every single one of us have convictions about life. Principles that guide us in our decisions. Maybe you might think of them as core values that are always there to give you direction on the way you should go or a decision you should make. For me it is a calling from God that I know he as given me as a leader of his local church. More specifically there are principles that guide me in my leadership at Old Fort church.

It is so easy when the going gets tough or things don't work out the way we had thought to deviate from the plan. It is hard to keep faith in what has gotten us here and to keep trusting God when things get tough. I know in my heart that I need to lead with integrity and keep people accountable. I know God has placed it on my heart to lead with conviction and to challenge people to rise above mediocrity. I have always sensed that God wants me to lead through innovation and dreaming big. He impresses upon my heart regularly that we need to be taking risks and trying things that might not be liked by all people all of the time. I believe these are all things that summarizes where our church is at right now. It is an awesome thing.

I guess Tony reminds me that it will not always be easy. There will be times where we want to let go and give in. There will be moments where it will seem like we should abandon these principles and do something different. But he reminds me that we are going to keep doing what we do. We will stay the course. I believe God is doing a good thing and He will continue to bless us as we honor Him with our trust to live out the plan and to practice the principles He has placed on our hearts.

Where in your life do you feel like wavering? When have you felt like compromising from what you believe in? What issue are you facing right now that would have you try something different from what it is you are called to do? Let me encourage you to stay the course and to do what it is you do in the name of Christ. Don't give in...don't give up. What God has called you to is too important for you to do that. I invite you to stay the course as I will be. We will do what it is we do and will glorify God in the process. Blessings, Your Dreaming Pastor