"Add" means there is something we have to do. We are in danger of forgetting that we cannot do what God does, and that God will not do what we can do. We cannot save ourselves nor sanctify ourselves, God does that; but God will not give us good habits, He will not give us character, He will not make us walk aright. We have to do all that ourselves, we have to work out the salvation God has worked in. "Add" means to get into the habit of doing things, and in the initial stages it is difficult. To take the initiative is to make a beginning, to instruct yourself in the way you have to go." (Oswald Chambers)
It seems to me that taking the initiative is right only you have actually heard the call of God on a particular matter. It is good to take action, but I do not need to jump ahead of God.
My friend and I had this same discussion this morning over breakfast. He had been asked by a friend in the ministry to come on board a start-up move to plant a new church. He knew he could get excited in this endeavor, but did not sense a call from God to do it. The project was good, it was a chance to serve, and he had been through this once before and new the blessings that could come from it. But he did not feel that it was God's call for him at this particular time. He felt it would be of great personal satisfaction to him, but maybe he needed to get himself out of the way and listen for God to speak on the matter, or even to keep silent.
Many times, I let circumstances dictate my service. Someone asks and I see the need and jump in. Maybe I need to listen more and act less, especially when it is something that I know I can do.
Looks like there may be at least three keys to right service:
1. Wait on God to lead
2. Listen for the Call
3. Go,,,,Do
(a note for any reader...tomorrow is another travel day for us, so if you want Chambers' word for tomorrow, go to the site:)
http://www.myutmost.org/05/0511.html
read it for yourself.
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