Craig T. Owens

Pastors, I’m challenged by these words from Charles Bridges—

It is indeed a ‘neglect of the gift of God that is in us,’ to trifle either in the study or in the pulpit. God will bless our endeavors—not our idleness. Our Master, and our people for our Master’s sake, have a just claim to our best time and talents, our most matured thoughts, and most careful studies. To venture upon this infinite work of God with slender furniture, proves a guilty unconcern to our high responsibility.

Idleness is not just laziness (although it can be that too). Think of your car when it’s idling: perhaps it’s not in gear, or maybe your foot is still on the brake. In either case, the car is not moving along to its full potential.

It’s the same for us. If we’re not moving along to our full potential as pastors, we’re idling. And that, in the words of Charles Bridges, is a neglect of the gift of God that is in us.

How might you and I be idling?

• Not spending enough time in prayer? If we’re not praying, we’re operating in our own strength, not in God’s strength.
• Hunting for a text to share, instead of seeking the mind of the Lord and letting Him reveal the text we should share?
• Taking on too many projects?
• Not delegating?
• Not organizing or planning ahead?
• Not taking care of our physical health, so we’re battling staying alert or staying healthy?
• Not spending enough time in personal devotions, so our “tank” is nearly dry?

Those are just a few thoughts that came to my mind. The Holy Spirit can reveal where you may be idling and possibly neglecting such a precious gift, if you will ask Him.

Let’s always be men and women who live up to the full potential of what God has called us to. I’m praying for you!