For My Good, For His Glory

In a previous post I listed the many various reasons why someone should plant a church in Hemet, CA. However, out of the million reasons to NOT plant a church, I hit one this week: God hinders it. Last week I had a meeting with the deacons of our church on what the support would look like from Hemet Valley Baptist Church. There were some objections and concerns that were made by a few of the deacons, but after a lunch with one of them a few days later I felt entirely confident and optimistic about Hemet Valley's involvement. The deacons met again however and almost unanimously voted against proceeding with the church plant after careful prayer and consideration. For whatever reason, God moved in their hearts to prevent this undertaking. To be honest I was a bit shocked at first. Some have objected and encouraged me to plant the church anyways, though this is unacceptable. The deacons function as leadership in this church, which I am a member of. I must respect and submit to their leadership and authority, and if I were to be the young punk pastor who starts the church in spite of godly counsel, then it would not be a Christ honoring endeavor.

This circumstance is an example of how God reveals his will to us. First, we are to obey what God has clearly commanded us in the Scriptures. As we are transformed by the renewing of our minds and the Spirit uses the Word of God to mold my thinking, I begin to assess situations with the mind of Christ. As I am obedient in these things I simply do what I desire to do. I truly believed that my highest form of obedience was to plant this church. I believe my motives were right. I believed that this would honor Christ more than anything else. However, God has other plans. In his perfect knowledge he has something better in store. He has kept me from this church plant for a reason, and though I do not see what that reason is currently, I know ultimately it is for my good and for his glory.

A lot of good has come from this church plant attempt. I have grown in godliness and faithfulness as a husband and father. Others have grown in their faith. People have been saved. All of our preparations were not done in vain, but were used to glorify Jesus. And for this reason I rejoice.

So, what now? I have no idea. I am applying to churches and putting my resume out there to see where God is taking us next. It could be anywhere in the country. I don't know what the future holds but I know this: God is good and God is in control. He has good plans for us for his glory, and I can rest in that truth.