Weekly Ministry Tip #6
Every day we are in a battle, the battle between our sinful nature and the Spirit. Consider what the Apostle Paul says in Galatians 5:17, “For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.”
Living in our own power can lead to falling into temptation, frustration, hopelessness, anxiety and overall meaninglessness. Not the way to live. But living by the Spirit and fully trusting God, even when circumstances are difficult, can lead to fulfillment, joy, peace of mind, and assurance that He is there. This is where I want to live. Here is the context of Galatians 5:17 above:
“16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh… “22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control.
… 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
Where do you desire to live? You can win the fight! Let the Spirit of God control you.
Where Do You Need Help?
Now is a good time to stop and consider where you need help. Ask yourself; What is going well in the ministry on campus (or your ministry situation)? What is not going well? If I could do a couple of things over again, what would I do? Is the attendance going up or down? Are the Bible studies going well? Are students feeling connected to Cru?
These are always good questions to ask as you trust God to do a great work towards building multiplying disciples. There are two places I would point you to as you ask yourself some honest questions. First, go back over the last 5 weekly tips on Ben’s web page: BenRivera.org. Second, ask your Cru staff coach how they might help you. Continue to be as effective as possible for God’s kingdom. Make any changes you need to make to see leaders/disciples raised up and built for a lifetime of ministry and your campus reached for Christ.
Talk to you next week,
Ben with Cru