Is this what happens when we empty ourselves and admit that we are weak ? Is the result God ’ s moving and getting the credit and glory ? Yes — though the way God moves will vary from moment to moment and day to day . It might look like multitudes coming to Jesus , or His moving might not be visible to the naked eye . What we do know is God works through humble servants . Therefore , I have learned to boast about my weakness . I want more of that Holy Spirit power , not for my fame but the fame of Jesus ’ name . If the path to more of God is pain and the journey to see God glorified in my life is the continual presence of a thorn , so be it .
Too many pastors love to display their strengths for their own renown . However , I believe God is looking for pastors who know they are weak , pastors who understand they are sinners saved by the sheer grace of God . God is looking for pastors who are not afraid to pour their soul out to Him , acknowledging their weaknesses and relying on His strength .
Adapted from Before We Forget : Reflections from New and Seasoned Pastors on Enduring Ministry . Contributor : Noe Garcia . Editors Natan illican and Jonathon Woodyard . Copyright 2020 . Used by permission .
NOW
Dr . Noe Garcia is the Senior Pastor at North Phoenix Baptist Church in Phoenix , Arizona . He and his wife have four children . Noe holds a Doctorate of Ministry and Executive Leadership from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary . He serves on the evangelism team for the North American Mission Board , is a Trustee for Union University , and serves on the ERLC leadership council . Noe is an adjunct professor with Gateway Seminary , a writer for Lifeway Voices , and has served as the Second Vice President of the Southern Baptist Convention . He is passionate about reaching and equipping people with the gospel of Jesus Christ , in Phoenix and around the world .
25