Maintaining Focus

We knew it was coming and now, we find ourselves right in the midst of it. That’s right, Summer is here. So far we have completed Vacation Bible School, Super Summer, and the Collective Tour. Sonday’s Camp, Summer Music Camp, and Over the Edge Preteen Camp are still to come. To say the summers are busy at Northside is an understatement. There is a lot of exciting ministry that takes place, but we must be careful.

Business does not always equate to effectiveness. We must never lose sight of our purpose. Jesus Christ has called us to be about, “making disciples.” He goes on to explain what that means; “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20). So, the question we must ask ourselves is this; are we truly making disciples or are we just really busy? I hope it is the former. It is my prayer that through all that we do at Northside we are truly making disciples.

There are several things that you can do to make sure that we are staying on point. If you are involved in one our ministries, then ask the question, “What about this event or ministry is leading us to the ultimate goal of disciple making?” If you cannot come up with an answer then one of two things need to happen. First, we can modify the event to make it more effective. Option two, determine that the event is not needed and the resources can be better used somewhere else.

The second thing that we can do is hold one another accountable. Accountability is such a scary word. No one likes to challenge others because it feels uncomfortable. However, if any organization is going to improve, it will be because the tough questions are asked. When we ask tough questions, and are willing to answer tough questions, the entire organization will be lifted to a greater level of effectiveness. Questions cause us to think through our plans, to consider possible improvements, and help keep us on point. Tough questions can be asked in love.

Third, pray for Godly wisdom. Only God can truly lead us to be as effective as possible. God’s Spirit at work within us can reveal things we would have never thought of on our own. God’s Spirit can provide answers that far surpass our natural wisdom. And God’s Spirit can provide courage to press forward that we would never generate in and of ourselves. As we seek the Lord through prayer our efforts will produce supernatural results as oppose to what we can simply do on our own.

It is my prayer that Northside will be a disciple making church. I pray that in 20 years, the city of Victoria will be different because Northside is here. I further pray that if Northside were to cease to exist, that we would actually be missed. Let us seek the face of God, keeping in mind our call to make disciples. May we never miss the goal amid the business. As long as the business is moving us forward, I say bring it on. However, we must constantly reevaluate who we are and what we are doing. Our one driving desire ought to be hearing the Lord say, “Well done!”

Honored to be your pastor,

Darrell