If you could rewind way, way back in the church planting process, you would find Frank, Doug, and I talking during a weekly pastor's meeting, discussing some of the many subjects surrounding the church. Some of the issues were cultural, some were boring church polity, and others were matters of heart and soul. In the midst of it all, the conversation began moving more towards issues surrounding our ability to pursue certain spiritual visions in our current ministry and church situations. In my enthusiasm, I remember saying, "You know, we could totally plant our own church." Once we were all agreed, in the weeks following, I found myself playing the part of cheerleader.
I don't like being a cheerleader. I am an engineer by trade and education. I enjoy explaining why rockets will explode, bridges will fall, and the government will inevitably find a way to screw up everything it touches. I'm not used to being the wellspring of hope and optimism! Speaking with Doug one day, I said, "I can't wait until you are no longer bogged down by all the depressing issues of church polity (deacons, ministry formation, house issues, church backroom politics), because I'm getting really tired of being the optimistic one in the group."
I kid, but enthusiasm is often exhausting in the best of times, and it's even worse in the worst of times. Speaking just this week, I heard about yet another individual in our community undergoing various medical tests for potential complications (the details would be inappropriate for me to share). Every place I turn, I feel like individuals are being socked in the jaw, and it seems the people most often targeted are those trying to enthusiastically start something new or create something for God. In one case it's someone trying to start new Bible studies and fellowship groups. In another case it's an individual trying to minister to his congregation while dealing with a tough diagnosis for his brother. In yet another case it's an individual assisting with our church plant dealing with a dozen different life stressors followed by losing a dearly loved family member. It seems like the attacks are relentless!
Maybe part of the reason why it seems that way... is because that's exactly what is happening.
Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by his vast strength. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rules, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens. For this reason, take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. (Ephesians 6:10-13)
I recall several years back there was an effort to hold a "circle of prayer" meeting around the Caroline High School following several suicides and attempted suicides. Given the events taking place, I wrote and publicly posted something regarding spiritual warfare. One response I received was from someone in education who objected to the phrase "spiritual warfare". They suggested that it didn't seem right to refer to a relationship with God, and life's more unpleasant circumstances, as "warfare". I don't recall how I responded, but if the same thing occurred today I would simply point the individual to this piece of scripture.
As Christians, as forces of light fighting for a mission of God's making, we are engaged in a righteous struggle between good and evil. Whether we prefer to be in a struggle or not, that is what Satan has presented to us. In those times it can seem difficult, if not impossible, to express any feelings of hope and optimism. How do we survive?
The verses following the above excerpt talk about specific mechanisms we have to ward off anything Satan throws at us, but you can summarize it all in this: belonging to Christ. Let me be painfully clear when I say that we can not withstand the barrage of hate and evil that Satan can throw at us... alone. This is one of the biggest reasons why I feel so many otherwise successful individuals struggle with suicide and addiction. If you're successful, why do you need to rely on anyone else but you? By leaning into our belonging to Christ, and only through that association, we are able to live for things beyond our current circumstances. We can rise above whatever argument comes our way. We can move forward despite oppressive opposition to our calling. All these things we can do through Christ and Christ alone.
Sometimes when I hear someone at their wit's end, I mentally sometimes want to ask "how's your prayer life?", "are you getting into your Bible any?", "do you have Christian brothers and sisters you speak with?". Understand, these questions don't come from a position of piety or expectation, but because these are the weapons we are given to rise above our circumstances. I know it's easier said than done, but if you find yourself at the end of your rope and you don't know how you could possibly go on, cling to that cross; Christ already did the heavy lifting. Lean on your belonging to Him and see if you don't see a spark of that enthusiasm return.
Where Satan offers despair, opposition, and pain, Christ offers hope and light. That is what brings us our enthusiasm even in the midst of a darkening world.
DEVOTIONAL PRAYER
A Prayer for Enthusiasm in Difficulty
Lord, we are sometimes so weak and ill-equipped to fight life's battles on our own. Help give us the strength to stand up against the trials and temptations life may throw at us in a way that glorifies you and your kingdom. Give us motivation to go towards your Word when we need wisdom. Give us people in our lives to lift us up when our knees begin to shake. When all else fails and our knees is where we fall, help remind us to hit our knees in prayer. Through you we can do all things and we await with eagerness the next signs and demonstrations of your power and glory in our lives. Amen.
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