(Hebrews 12:1)
An issue that needs to be addressed is the mindset that armorbearing is merely a stepping stone to a position in leadership. We have seen this happen so many times in the Body of Christ, and it is a reproach to God.
If a person feels that the only reason God has him where he is now is so he can be promoted to “something bigger and better,” then, it’s sad to say, that individual is operating in the world’s system. The determining factor for this type of individual is the amount of money or authority that comes with the position. The highest bidder wins out.
Did you ever stop and ask God if your current position is the one He has chosen for you, if where you are now is where He wants you to be? It makes no difference what the salary or working conditions are; what really matters is whether or not God has called you to that job and place.
While serving my pastor, I had two opportunities to become the pastor of another church. Both of these were good churches, and at the time of the offers, the pay would have been better than what I was receiving where I was. Besides all that, I could have been the senior pastor, rather than an associate. If I had operated by the world’s system, I would have jumped at the chance for “advancement.” But the Kingdom of God does not operate that way.
I know that I am in God’s divinely appointed position for me, and that is the key. When people come to join the staff in our ministry, I pray, “Lord, send us the people who are divinely appointed by You to be here to work with us.”
Unless a leader’s staff are divinely called and sent to him by the Lord, he doesn’t want them. I understand that there will be times when God will separate a person from his current position. That moment may come for you one day. But if it does come, God’s best is that both you and your leader will know in your spirit that it is time for a change. Then the separation will be best for all concerned. It will be best for the Kingdom of God.
- Have you been divinely appointed to your position as armorbearer? How do you know? Take the time to write down your answers because they will be a great encouragement to you if you are offered other positions and when storms inevitably arise.
- Do you see your position as a stepping stone? If so, seek the Lord about it and make sure you view the position as He does.
- Whether or not you will be called to a different position someday, the important thing is that you give your current position your all today, as though you are called to serve there from now on. Do it joyfully!
Dear God, I realize the importance of serving in the role that You have divinely appointed for me. Unless You show me otherwise, I assume that I am in the position You’ve ordained for me for the rest of my life. Today I renew my commitment to serve my leader with my whole heart and to perform my duties in a manner that will bless him and honor You. If You ever want to move me to a different position or ministry, I trust You to make it clear to both me and my leader, and I trust You to help us make the transition smoothly. Amen.
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Terry has served as senior associate minister of a thriving congregation for over 23 years with over 40 years of experience in local church ministry. He is currently the senior pastor of Impact Church in Sherwood, Arkansas. Terry has authored four books. On the bestselling list, these books have motivated thousands of Christians to stand with their leaders in faithful service, helping them to fulfill God's purpose for their lives.
Terry is the Founder and President of Focus on the Harvest, Inc. He's traveled extensively, awakening believers to this strategic generation. Through his God-given passion, believers are ignited to discover their gifts and callings, commit to the vision of their local church, and focus on the harvest of souls throughout their city, state, nation, and world.
Terry holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Southwestern University, where he met his wife, Kim. They've been married for over 40 years and have three children; McCall, Alex, and McKenna.
In May 2008, Terry and Kim began Impact Church, a dynamic and growing, multicultural body of believers in Sherwood, AR. We believe that Christianity is not a religion; it's a relationship. God loves each person individually. He desires everyone to know him personally.