Should I Quit Shepherding?

I want to apologize for my confusing communication style.  My post entitled, "Should I Quit?" created quite a stir last week, with many people wondering if I was planning to quit ministry, the specific ministry where I am, or the church altogether.  Thankfully, the confusion arose from the disconnect people see between my life and the words of that blog.  "It just didn't sound like you," was a comment I received over and over again.  I'm glad people can see the difference.

Over the years, people have given me the same look of confusion when I didn't quit at various times along the way.  When key staff members left...I didn't quit.  When money ran out...I didn't quit.  When I had to go to work outside the church to do some "tent making"...I didn't quit.  When people lashed out at me, attacked the church, or turned their back on God...I didn't quit.  When the church building flooded for the last time...I didn't quit.  Each time, I was met with looks of confusion by people around me.  I had one person say to me, "We didn't think you would last this long."  It makes me ask the question, "Why?"

Remember the list of troubles Paul faced in 2 Corinthians 11:24-29? I quoted this passage in the first blog post of this series, but I didn't show you how Paul felt about the struggles he encountered.  "If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness." (2 Corinthians 11:30 NIV)  Paul pointed out that we choose our teachers and look to leaders for the wrong reasons.  Large churches, flashy programs, significant budgets, and even great knowledge, education, or pedigree does not define a Godly leader or a healthy church.  In fact, many of these things can get in the way of both, if we're not careful.
 

Leadership in the church isn't about the team with which we serve, the money we make (or don't make), the size of the church, the amount of opposition, or the building where you meet.  Leadership in the church is not about power, position, or politics. Leadership is about walking with God and helping others get there.

Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, watching over them--not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. (1 Peter 5:2-4 NIV)

Leadership is defined as a shepherd caring for his sheep.  It's about feeding them and protecting them.  Essentially, it's serving them so they can grow up healthy and strong.

I can't quit shepherding, no mater the circumstances.  I answer to the Chief Shepherd and look forward to His return.  Until then, I have work to do...and so do you.

Are you shepherding the flock He has entrusted into your care?  How's your marriage?  How about your children?  Are you caring for a small group, the church body, and even for people who are outside the church?

Are you ready to shepherd the flock that is under your care...

...or are you ready to quit?

 

Don't quit.

You would look good wearing a crown.