Lessons I've Learned from People I Dislike - Pt. One
Leading worship since the age of 16 has made me somewhat
qualified to blog on the topic of hateful and hurtful people. I know lead
pastors have their share of haters who love to tear them apart, but the music
side of any ministry also gets its share of complaints. And even though I often
have thoughts of writing a blog that would rip these people apart, I'm pretty
sure God would rather me share a few things I've learned over the years. So
here are some lessons from those who's goal in life is to bring every ministry
under their submission through dissension and ill-willed attacks.
Lesson 1: NO ONE IS PERFECT
That includes the one doing the criticizing, but it also includes me! I've found that after the initial let down subsides, behind every criticism there is a measure of truth. Learning how to apply that truth to your ministry will only make you better. But be sure its truth and not doubt driving your actions.
Why do we give so much thought to what other people say about our ministry when it clearly flies in the face of what God has already told us? Usually, it's because of doubt. We may think, "hmm, maybe God DOES want me to play two hymns every week." Listen, God gives you direction about your ministry. Seek Him for direction and seek other people you trust for guidance. But never allow your attention to be taken away from the direction God gives you.
Lesson #3: I CAN'T HIDE FROM NEGATIVITY AND LIVE IN A BUBBLE
Some leaders shelter themselves from the ridicule and surround themselves with only those who build them up. There's certainly a time for that. But If I'm called to lead, I'm also called to put on the armor of God and "quench the fiery darts with the shield of faith" Eph 6:16. That doesn't mean run from offenders or hide behind an armor bearer. It means leaders must be willing to accept the trials that God tells us WILL come, and have faith that it won't defeat you. In short, toughen up! Face your accusers! Stop whining and trust God!
Later this week, Lessons 4, 5, and 6.
That includes the one doing the criticizing, but it also includes me! I've found that after the initial let down subsides, behind every criticism there is a measure of truth. Learning how to apply that truth to your ministry will only make you better. But be sure its truth and not doubt driving your actions.
Why do we give so much thought to what other people say about our ministry when it clearly flies in the face of what God has already told us? Usually, it's because of doubt. We may think, "hmm, maybe God DOES want me to play two hymns every week." Listen, God gives you direction about your ministry. Seek Him for direction and seek other people you trust for guidance. But never allow your attention to be taken away from the direction God gives you.
Lesson #3: I CAN'T HIDE FROM NEGATIVITY AND LIVE IN A BUBBLE
Some leaders shelter themselves from the ridicule and surround themselves with only those who build them up. There's certainly a time for that. But If I'm called to lead, I'm also called to put on the armor of God and "quench the fiery darts with the shield of faith" Eph 6:16. That doesn't mean run from offenders or hide behind an armor bearer. It means leaders must be willing to accept the trials that God tells us WILL come, and have faith that it won't defeat you. In short, toughen up! Face your accusers! Stop whining and trust God!
Later this week, Lessons 4, 5, and 6.
