(Isa. 1:19)
An armorbearer’s attitude is another key to his developing longevity. The first aspect of attitude is a willingness to do whatever is asked of you. This is what leaders look for in people who desire to get involved. This is an attitude we all must develop in our hearts when we work in the Kingdom of God. You may not think you have the talent or ability to do whatever is asked, but because you are an armorbearer, you will set yourself to do it because you are asked.
Not long after I went to Agape Church, I was asked to take care of the weekly bulletin. I have no artistic ability. The last time I had done anything with art was pasting valentines in the fifth grade! But I told my pastor I would be happy to do it. It took me a while, but I did it to the best of my ability because the church needed it to be done. Later, someone else came along with the necessary talent and took over that job.
On the other hand, there was a time when I asked someone to help me with a particular job. The person replied, “I’m sorry, but that is not my ‘grace’ gift.” That may have been so, but I was asking for help—not a word from God. However, that is the kind of attitude many people have, and that is why they are never used. What is on the inside of a person is more important than what is on the outside. The greatest blessing to me is when people want to know where they can help. Those are the people who end up in leadership positions.
The next time you are asked to do something by your leader, regardless of what it is, be willing to tackle it. If you don’t know how to accomplish the task, there are plenty of resources to help you learn. The main thing is to have and maintain an attitude of willingness to do whatever is asked. That is the heart of a true armorbearer.
- What is your first reaction when you are asked to do something by your leader or others? Do you automatically express a willingness to act, or are you consistently hesitant?
- If you are hesitant, what is at the root of your hesitation? Fear? Selfishness? Inferiority? Whatever it is, talk to God about it. Let Him help you develop an attitude that is eager to help where help is needed.
- Can it be said of you as it was said of these?
“But Paul said of the churches of Macedonia, For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves” (2 Cor. 8:3).“Feed the flock of God; care for it willingly, not grudgingly; not for what you will get out of it but because you are eager to serve the Lord” (1 Peter 5:2 TLB).
Dear God, I am eager to tackle any job asked of me. I may not know how to do a thing and I might even be intimidated or afraid, but You are my help. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. If I don’t know how to accomplish what is asked of me, I pray that You will lead me to the information I need. When I step out in faith, I believe You will help complete the task in a manner that will bring You glory. 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.