So, whatcha scared of?

Leading people in things of the spiritual realm can be a daunting task.  I think that when people ponder the possibility of doing this, they see someone else’s eternity hanging in the balance.  Or maybe they’re just concerned with messing somebody else up real bad because of the possibility of giving them bad advice.

I have heard this from within some of the areas in our church.  I understand what this fear feels like.  But I don’t think that this point is where we need to pitch our tents and camp out at, believing we can’t make a difference.

Whatever it is that causes this fear, it makes people timid and reluctant when it comes to the possibility of leading someone spiritually.

That’s a shame because many people are missing out on a better life because of their feelings of inadequacies.  I mean, put yourself in the shoes of someone that needs help for a moment.

As this person, do you need someone to solve the deepest darkest part of your psychological makeup? Or would it be nice to have someone else just to bounce some ideas off of?  Someone to take the time and listen to you?  Or how about having someone lend a hand when you need it?  Does this sound like a way someone could help lead you spiritually?

Well, it is.  This is the way to lead someone spiritually, to make a difference in their lives.  Listen to this cool scripture from the apostle Paul (see my comments in italics):

“Because of the service (the help you give) by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God (Whoa! They will actually talk about how great God is because of you!) for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, (that means they know – because you took the time to help – that when you talk to them, you’re doing it for God) and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone.”
2 Corinthians 9:13

All it takes is a willing heart to stop and help someone.  God will get the credit because of you.  And you will now have more leverage to talk to that person about God.

Do you still think you are not equipped to lead someone?  All you gotta do is help, not solve someone’s problems for them.  That’s God’s job.  But…it starts with you.

-Jody