May 24, 2008
Wounds from a Friend
”Wounds from a friend can be trusted.” Proverbs 27:6
Recently, a pastor shared with me that his board was initially very excited about my consulting then suddenly turned and suggested to the pastor that they severe their relationship with me.
What was the problem? Their idea of consulting was for me to come in and flatter them with words of honey. They wanted me to give them a few “business” steps to solve their spiritual problems. When I pointed out the spiritual principles behind their “business” failures they took offense.
Unfortunately, it is becoming the norm for people to want to be able to accomplish great exploits with mediocrity as their standard.
For an example, look at the judging of American Idol. Randy is technical. Paula thinks everyone is a star. Simon is the only one who simply tells you the obvious.
Simon’s judgment can seem harsh at times; however, I understand exactly how he feels. While everyone else wants to have their fun, he wants to find extraordinary talent and expose it.
Paula simply wants to “multiply kisses”. Of course, she is the one accused of delirium.
My consulting doesn’t always seem pleasant at the time, but in the end it produces. Hundreds of churches have multiplied because of my willingness to expect more than mediocrity out of extraordinary people.
I do not present myself as “perfection” nor am I delusional to think that I know everything. I have a unique set of experiences in working the process of establishing two churches, leading a mega-church, and helping hundreds of pastors fulfill their God-given dream.