FROM THE HEART

In the commemoration of 9-11 we were all reminded of the horrible acts of terrorism our nation experienced September 11, 2001 and we continue to mourn the resulting loss of innocent American lives. Let me turn my thoughts to a form of spiritual terrorism carried out by Satan in his attacks on the church of Jesus Christ.

“Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” (1 Peter 5:8-9).

Recently, two of my friends in the ministry (one in our district and one in another district) suffered moral failure. The consequences are huge in damaged marriages, heartbroken kids, loss of ministry, loss of employment, and hurting churches. In these last days Satan has increased his efforts to damage God’s servants, smear the church, and destroy ministries. Thankfully, still less than 1% of our ministers suffer moral failure each year, but even one is too many.

There are many factors that contribute to our vulnerability to temptation. An unbalanced life is often a problem. Overwork and burnout can weaken one’s resolve. On the other side of the coin boredom can lead to greater vulnerability. Drifting from God is always a danger. Drifting from marital commitment and enjoyment is another. Involvement in pornography is a morally debilitating trap. A willingness to entertain flirtations outside of marriage is like playing “Russian Roulette” with everything important. Thinking you have earned the right to a little sinful enjoyment is a deception leading to devastating consequences.

Subconsciously seeking a way out of the pressures of ministry sometimes underlies self-destructive behavior by spiritual leaders. Learning better ways to cope, or taking a sabbatical, or even resigning from one’s current assignment are far better avenues to address such issues than self destruction. On the other hand, thinking you are invincible brings pride into the equation and pride always goes before a fall.

Seeking help to overcome Satan’s ploys is always appropriate. Dr. John Gowins is available and the district helps underwrite the cost of counseling for our ministers. Just as our nation has heightened security to prevent successful terrorist attacks so we must remain vigilant and not give Satan an opportunity.

I am thankful for a redemptive God and moral failure is not the end of the story for repentant men and women. “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1).

These thoughts are born out of a lifetime of ministry and a sincere desire to see all of us as ministers of the gospel live overcoming lives and finish well. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:10).

IN GOD’S PRESENCE

Bertha Barrett, a Licensed AG minister in our district, went home to be with the Lord September 8th. Her funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 16th at Next Step Christian Church, 12156 Grant Circle, Thornton, CO. We thank God for her years of ministry together with her husband Thurl. May God grant comfort to Thurl and their family.