A View From Within

Inferiority Complex?

I recently read a statement on a subject under discussion in certain circles: "How do you overcome an inferiority complex?" Eleanor Roosevelt is quoted in Walk the Talk as saying, "Remember, no one can make you feel inferior without your consent." I agree wholeheartedly!

In reviewing my life’s journey thus far, I know of many who had my life planned for me. But they had no idea what God had planned for me. Over the years, they have been surprised at God's power in my life. Through my struggles, I have been determined not to let others "rain on my parade." The desire of everyone should be to determine, with God’s guidance, the direction for one’s life.

The best formula I know for successful navigation is found in Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.”

 

Whose Agenda

Daily events are affected by agendas. Recently I had a recurring experience in staying focused. For 48 hours events beyond my control kept coming at me. I knew what my mission should be, yet found out that there are other interests trying to drive my day.

After a while, I backed away from everything and began to do a serious analysis of events. There were religious, political, social and economic issues. People were involved. Many were passionate about their respective issues and I was surprised at the passion expressed. I was also concerned at the shading and amount of information supplied. I also discovered much disinformation and misinformation. Naturally, I finally figured it out. No amount of conversation will change other peoples passion. Yet, these conversation will keep me from fulfilling my call and mission.

Paul Harvey, one of my favorites commentator used to talk about "the rest of the story". Let's practice a new process: Check the facts, don't gossip and spread rumors, be honest, and by all means, "stay on your mission".

Sierra Butte Baptist Association

Dr. Tom Stringfellow is the new Director of Missions for Sierra Butte Baptist Association in Northern California. Visiting in this association on Sunday, February 1, Tom and I were able to visit six California Southern Baptists churches in one day! What an incredible time in visiting with churches in Gridley, Magalia, Paradise, Oroville and Yuba City.

I learned much about this mission field. The population is diverse, the area is rural, and the churches are playing an important role in spiritual transformation. How wonderful to see the excitement of members in these congregations.

One of the purposes of my trip was to launch the Sierra Butte Bible Institute. More than 100 attended a rally on Monday evening, indicating their interest and excitement for this new ministry. This Institute will train leaders in Baptist doctrine, evangelism, ministry, missions and the like. I commend Tom on this new project which will bring about stability in many of the churches.

Breakfast on Tuesday with the pastors was the end of my trip. They represented many of the churches including a Messianic congregation. There is an intentional effort to share the gospel with every ethnic and culture group in the area. The pastors were engaged in prayer for the lost in their area as well as those throughout the world. At the end of our meeting, I was humbled as they surrounded me and prayed for God's blessing on my life. It is an experience I will never forget!