Mike’s Minute
September Newsletter
Change isn’t easy, that’s a
given! But why do we fear it? Is it because of the unknown? Is it because we’re comfortable with our
surroundings? Is it because we are
afraid of the commitment change could bring?
Or is it simply a matter of faith and who or what we have faith in?
In the
beginning of Acts chapter 1 the apostles were meeting to decide who would fill
Judas’ position and to fulfill what was written in Psalm 109:8. Two men were
proposed: Matthias and Joseph called Barsabbas.
“Then they
prayed, ‘Lord you know everyone’s heart.
Show us which of these two you have chosen . . .’ (Acts -24).” They then cast lots, and the lot fell upon
Matthias and he was added to the eleven existing apostles.
What did
the leaders of the first century church do when change had to be made? The apostles acknowledged that the Lord
“knows everyone’s heart.” Meaning the
Lord knows the motives and the level of sincerity in every man’s heart. Given this they asked the Lord to show them
who He
had chosen.
If you have visited Westwood
Christian Church within the last year you can see that change is
happening. To meet the needs of this
growing congregation a few changes have been made. More are still to come. If our motive for change is not in accordance
with God’s will for our lives and for this congregation, our efforts will
become irrelevant.
Change is a matter of faith. I’m certain the apostles and the believers
there that day (numbering around 120 according to Acts ) could have made a decision on who to pick. Yet, the apostles had faith that God would
show them. Therefore when a change has
to be made, we need to ask ourselves, “are my thoughts on the matter based on
my motives and level of sincerity or
are they in accordance with God’s will for our lives and for this
congregation?”
I encourage
the congregation to pray for the leadership of this church. Pray that God will show them His will. I also ask that we pray for our own attitudes
in this time of growing and change. We
may have to step out of our comfort zone and put our faith to action. If we acknowledge Him, He will give us the
strength and courage to fulfill the ministry he has laid before this
congregation.