Integrating Life and Work

By Doug Franklin September 17, 2010

When we are firing on all cylinders, our ministry is aligned with passion, values, and people. We feel secure when we have the trust and respect of the people we work with and  for. When we use our giftedness we see people’s lives transformed. So how do we live in the sweet spot of life? How do we keep the downers around us from sucking the life out of us? How do we move past those looking to marginalize our impact? One day they’re up and the next they’re down. What are the keys to fully living?

1. Jesus
If you work for the will of God and allow him to lead your life, then trials, negative relationships, and worry are his and his only. One of the strategies of LeaderTreks is that we work by the wisdom and will of God. So when bad happens (and it does) I immediately look to God and ask “what are you up too?” Just asking this question gives me release and a realization that he is in charge. I often picture myself in the driver seat of a car without my hands on the wheel.

2. Confidence
If your doing youth ministry (or any role for that matter) and you know God has called you into your position, have confidence. Relax, use your gifts and don’t try and mimic anyone else because God has made you complete, lacking nothing. He has given you all the gifts you need to do your job; enjoy! If you are playing a game and hanging out with students because you need someone to like you, then you will never be in your sweet spot.

3. Humility
God has done great things for you and he is also doing great things for others. Never forget that God’s grace is at work in all of us. Give grace and leave room for people to grow. Love their potential and see the best about them. Serving others and not caring about how they treat you will lead you into your sweet spot. Only care about what God thinks…by the way, he thinks you’re great!