Measurements

     We live in a time when success is measured by results, even in Christian circles.  If we can't see God working--and measure it--we assume that He is not working and that we are failures.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  There are several reasons why result-oriented ministry is misguided.  First, Christianity is a marathon not a momentary burst of energy.  I will probably never know where the people that I am ministering to now will be spiritually thirty years from now.  How then can I measure my impact in the present tense.  Second, no matter what needs I am trying to meet in my ministry, when I am gone, the needs will still be there.  In addition, God does not measure success by results but by faithfulness.  The results are in the hands of His Spirit and the power of the Word, not the ability of the one ministering.  And the timing is His as well.  For the glory is His and His alone.  We use man-made measuring sticks to pat ourselves on the back.  And to give others a reason to applaud us as well.  And the visible signs of success may be misleading.  People conform to the behavior that will gain them acceptability and praise; thus, their behavior changes as soon as they move to another group where the measurements are different.
     Don't be discouraged if it appears that you are not making an impact on people's lives.  Just continue to be faithful, continue to love those God has called you to minister to, and trust Him.  He blesses right choices not man-made standards of achievements.  And when you can see Him working, remember ALL the glory is His.