Spirit Directed Ministry
One of the things that can be easily lost in the daily work of ministry is the fact that we are involved in a supernatural endeavor. We are not working in the mundane world limited by human abilities. We have a power within us that leads, guides, empowers and accomplishes far beyond the frailty of the talents of mortal man. Man can accomplish many things in his own efforts. As as was proven at Babel, combined efforts of men can do most anything. However, when the Holy Spirit is involved in the daily life of the Christian leader, the unbelievable can occur. Many times I have gone through seasons where I felt little was happening. I didn't see or feel much beyond the natural world around me. Then I would look back and see how the hand of God had been "directing my steps" even when I didn't have a clue. That is generally how God works in our lives and minitries. It is human to want to experience the whirlwind, it is divine to reveal Godly direction in the still small voice. I am convinced we often walk over answered prayer on the way to the prayer meeting.

What causes us to be so sensitive to the leadership of the Holy Spirit on one day and so insensitive the next? The problem usually stems from a departure from expectancy. Insensitivity and a lack of expectancy is a faith problem caused by a confidence in our own abilities and/or confidence in our worldly systems and methods. We have been taught to confront problems by surfing the internet for solutions derived from others who have solved the same problems or challenges. The problem here is that we can learn some things from the methods of others but their solutions may only prove to be our detour. Why didn't the "steps to success" that I brought back from the conference in California work in Florida? Because we often forget that God is a God of relationship. While we are totally focused on the destination, He is deeply involved in the daily process. It is His intention that every detail that takes us to the destination or ministry goal is a part of daily intimacy with Him. Too often we find ourselves "working for God, quick to give him all the glory, and yet involving Him very little in the details". The results of such ministry activity is a limited, short-sighted vision, diminished true Kingdom expansion and wearniess to the servant of God. The words of Zechariah scream in my ears on a regular basis: "not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit says the Lord".