I was listening to the testimony of the son of a renowned Archbishop in our dear country. According to the son, when the Archbishop died unexpectedly, many people promised to be solidly behind the family. As it is, they are still behind them but very far behind, he said. I learnt never to depend on people’s promises.
Friend, don’t let people’s promises push you to take life’s journey. People are what they are; people, not God. Learn to take man’s promise with a pinch of salt (Isaiah 31:1-3). It is only God that can promise and not fail because He has both integrity and ability. Unlike men, God also has control over uncertainties.
People can encourage you to start something, but you would need your personal conviction and commitment to continue and to succeed (Acts 26:22). Don’t let anyone push you into marriage. Don’t mistake the huge support and attendance on your wedding day as assurance for your marriage. Once the day is over, people hardly remember the couple.
Don’t let anyone push you into ministry. Associate pastor, don’t start a church because some disillusioned and disgruntled members of the church are pushing you to do so. The fact that they testify of God’s grace upon your life does not equal being called to found a work or ministry (Hebrews 5:4).
If you are not called, you are not called. No human applause or commendation can equal a calling (1 Corinthians 1:26-31). Calling is like pregnancy. Nobody can carry it for you. Don’t start because someone promised to finance you. God is the only one who can finance what He births (Isaiah 46:10-11). Humans are mere channels. Channels will change, but God remains constant.
Be driven by your conviction, not anyone’s counsel or encouragement (Acts 26:19, 2 Timothy 1:12). When the chips are down, it would be just you, God, and your convictions. People have their issues to deal with. They have their lives to live. Don’t be offended that no one cares about you and what you are doing. Welcome help, but don’t run after people to help you. It can be frustrating. Make God your only help (Psalms 121:1-8). You will succeed!
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria