Awaken The Dawn

AWAKEN THE DAWN!

One day, alone in the sanctuary, I prayed earnestly, crying out: “Oh, Lord, I thought you wanted me to go to the sem- inary.” The Lord’s still voice came so powerfully, assur- ingly: “You are in your seminary!” Later, as my friends returned from their studies, invariably, they were con- cerned about where they would find a church that would accept them. I couldn’t help but smile because I was pas- toring in the place where I felt God wanted me; He Himself had opened the door. Prayer had taken me along a road uniquely selected for me by my heavenly Father. 7 But not everyone will be called to be full-time ministers; in fact (despite all the teachings about spiritual gifts and min- istries), most people will not be tremendous leaders. Most of us will be followers who must work in a secular place as we attempt to balance the problems of worldly and spiri- tual living, and struggle to raise our families as we try to function in a hostile environment. Nevertheless, I want to encourage you to believe that this sixth concept will work for you if you do indeed have a calling, a gifting, a ministry. Sometimes, when I address a congregation, my heart hurts as I see single parents raise little children by themselves, or watch older people endure physical pain. Yet, each and everyone of us play a part in the advancement of God’s great kingdom! As you read my comments about Jesus, realize that prayer can have a similar effect on you. Consider praying pragmatically. For instance, take an evaluative book such as Discover Your God-Given Gifts by Don and Katie Fortune. 8 Utilizing the diagnostic tools which are pro- vided in the book, carefully analyze your vocation, your personality, and your desired ministry. If you can com- bine the insight which you will gain in the exercise with

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