Growing Up

As a younger pastor I used to feel this self-imposed pressure to “close the deal” at the end of a talk. Whether it was about salvation or another topic, if people didn’t respond, I took it personally, like it was my fault. I know, big ego.

Now, at the ripe old age of 34, I no longer feel that way. I still have the same urgency and desire for people to cross the line and give themselves to Christ, yet I no longer feel an internal pressure to make it happen in a service.

Why?

I think I am at the point where I have finally gotten over myself.

I have more faith in the Holy Spirit convicting a heart then in my ability to communicate His passion to do so.

Each week, at Lifecentre, there are people ready to cross the line, those who inching closer, and a growing group who before an hour ago didn’t even know there was a line.

Here is a novel thought.

Next time you are giving a call for salvation, why not do that, but then  pray for those who are still in process and encourage them to take another step? You would be surprised at what God will do.

For us, that is a small group called Starting Point.

Just this weekend I was chatting with someone who has been coming for the past few months. I asked them how they were doing in general, and they said…

“Great – just don’t pressure me, just keep on doing what you are doing, I am getting close.”

Do I want them to cross the line today?
Yes.

But it isn’t my decision to make, its theirs.

We provide the opportunity, but it is up to them to decide.

Feels good to be growing