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| (Our backyard, on the river.) |
When I do one of my Leading the Presence-Driven Church weekends it is inevitable, as the event nears an end, that someone asks, "So, what do we do now?" Here is how I see this.
What you do now, in transitioning to a Presence-Driven Church, is this: engage in the ongoing abiding life.
Pastors and leaders, do not view these teachings as tools for ministry. Rather, see yourselves as instruments of righteousness, being formed by the Father's hands. This is about relationship with God, not programming the church. You need to spend time alone with God, otherwise you will not really understand, and you will not be credible.
Seek God, spend much time with God, for the sake of your own restoration and transformation. Begin to live in constant, abiding renewal.
In my experience, most pastors do not do this. Among pastors who attend my classes and seminars, most do not continue in this. They fall back into the rut of, "I don't have enough time to pray."
For many, the praying life will be a revolutionary change. There will be resistance. Therefore, begin today, not tomorrow, and carve out relational time with God. Make this a lifestyle that grows and increases, until the day you stand fully in his presence.
Remember how God spoke to you at the conference? Remember how restoring and renewing your solitary times with God were? It can be the same today. God did not remain at the conference center. He, Emmanuel, is with you, presently. Trust this, and abide in him.
Don't force the issue with your people. Do not try to make things happen. Of course, you want to share your experience with your people. But I suggest deepening the experience in yourself first. Pray, today, like you did at the conference. Do not bypass this step. (Refer to my book Praying about this.)
Slow-cook in God's presence, for weeks. Re-familiarize yourself with your God. "Forget about yourself, concentrate on Him, and worship Him." Tend the fire within.
With greater, growing familiarity, comes increasing discernment. Discernment is in direct proportion to familiarity. God will show you what to do, and when to do it.
Lead, by being led. The Lord is your shepherd. You will not be wanting. And, you will bear much fruit.
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See my book Leading the Presence-Driven Church.
See also my book Praying: Reflections on 40 Years of Solitary Conversations with God.
I am currently writing How God Changes the Human Heart.
Then, Linda and i intend to wrote our book on Relationships.
You may contact me at: johnpiippo@msn.com
