Scripture Ref: I Kings 19:1-19 Story of Elijah’s escape from Jezebel – ran in fear of his life, wanted to give up. God let him rest 40 days, then gave him other tasks.
Two Parts;
Part 1 – What’s the Problem? Part 2 – What Can We Do?
I. What’s the Problem?
1. He’s human Rom.
2. He’s exhausted
A. Ministry drains the soul
B. It’s not just big battles, but accumulation of small stuff
3. He’s hurt.
A. He’s being criticized Jer. 15:10
B. He’s being criticized for doing good
4. He’s depressed - he’s worked so hard, sacrificed so much --- for what?
Can bear a lot if you think it M.A.D. (makes a difference)
5. He feels worthless – my best results in nothing of consequence
6. He feels alone - “nobody knows or cares”
Question: Can you identify with Elijah’s feelings? Have you ever experienced this?
But, this is not about you, but about others, so---
II. What Can We Do? (for servants burned out or broken down)
Answer: Treat them as God treated Elijah. Refer to opening text.
1. Notice.
2. Ask……( how are you doing? Spiritually, in your walk with God, etc.) … then ask again. (really?... on a scale of 1 – 10? )
3. Listen. Stop. Really listen – without interruption, criticism, or immediate advice. Prov. 25:20 Rom:
4. Offer encouragement. – recognition, appreciation, affirmation Prov.
5. Give Assistance. Ex. 17:10-13 = all servants. The ways to do this are infinite – hugs to housecleaning
6. Give them time – to get beyond feelings, ie: weariness, depression, etc. Question: What army shoots its wounded???
7. Give them another chance.
8. (at the right time) Give them another challenge.
Observations: A. If we did more of #1 - #5, we’d have less need of #6 – 8
B. If you serve to Make a Difference, here’s a place to Make a Difference.
No comments:
Post a Comment