Several years ago churches began a process adapted from the business world—performance reviews.  Pastors, secure in their calling from the Lord, now faced a board evaluating the visible evidence of ministry.    The board’s task was to reflect on expectations.   Unless you’ve been involved in the day-to-day operations of a ministry, you might find this task daunting.

Does that excuse pastors from the process?  Apparently, not.  Truth be told, performance reviews are standard procedures for everyone involved in ministry.  Every pastor, elder, deacon, member or adherent is being looked at on a continuous basis.

The Word says,

Day after day they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways,

as if they were a nation that does what is right and

has not forsaken the commands of its God. 

They ask me for just decisions and seem eager for God to come near them.

(Isa 58:2)

What I find interesting about the verse quoted above is the phrase “as if.”  Apparently the self-examination of the nation was not accurate.  Indications from Isaiah would lead one to believe that just decisions and needed revival may be thwarted by pastoral failure.  Now, that is sad.  Who, in their right mind, would want that on their conscience?

Sometimes we can be lulled into thinking that busyness is sufficient.  Busyness will never replace morality and obedience.  When pastors fill their schedules so as to look proficient, they victimize the same people they are called to love and serve.   This is not a job; nor is it a game. 

Oh, and by the way, remember I said that performance reviews are standard procedures for everyone involved in ministry.  One day every believer will stand before God and give an answer for the way they lived their lives and fulfilled their ministry.  Isaiah does not single out one person; the whole nation is indicted.

God spare us from such a spiritual malady; may we be those who do right and obey.

"Good Fit"

Sunday Morning Sermon

Wednesday Nights "Encounter With God"

• Group Study:  Diving In
• Prayer & Praise