Take Advantage of God Ordained Moments

God has taught me over the years that His plan is far better than mine.  Through different churches, fire departments and family events I have come to the realization that every person we meet and interact with is a privilege.  Even the ones that are tough. Yes, God brings people and situations into our lives to act as sandpaper to knock off our rough edges.  He also gives us relationships with people that will be with us forever.  The kind that can pick up right where you left off even if it has been years since being together.  That is a gift.

Also, in pastoring there is the tendency to take ownership of the people that participate in your ministry by thinking they are "yours".  The truth is they are God's and sometimes He calls you to minister to them for a long time and others for a season.  A church can be a home where people stay forever and sometimes it can be a port/dock where they come for a season to find rest from rough waters.  Both are vital, but when the "season" is over, it's hard.  Many say, "Don't take it personal" but that is impossible.  Shared experiences are the moments that bond people together, however, God is in control.  God calls pastors / staff to and from churches and He also does the same with its members.

I try to never take for granted the blessing of having people together at a specific event for a specific time.  Whether it be a church event, family event or an emergency response.  All we have are the moments that God gives us together.  The best thing we can do is honor Him but showing His love to those He places into our life, however long that may be. The rest is up to Him!

Philippians 1:3 (NLT)

“Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God”

Romans 8:28-29 (NLT)

“28 And we know that God causes everything to work together[m] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. 29 For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn[n] among many brothers and sisters.”

Proverbs 16:9 (NLT)

“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.”