Should I go or should I Stay?

I positively love the heart of my preaching brothers and their families.  As a group I know of no more pure-hearted, selfless, sincere group of people in the world.  I am proud to be a part of the unofficial fraternity of Gospel Servants.  

There are few struggles that bug us more than knowing how to know when it is time to stay and when it is time to go. Of course, sometimes leaders/churches make it easy for us :(. But outside of those “opportunities” how does one KNOW to stay or to go?

Some have it easy. They never move. Never consider it. Others are continually haunted of questions of effectiveness; could they do better, could someone new lead them where I have not. Or the other, could I influence more people toward heaven at another place, do more good, impact the Kingdom more effectively?  

And then this statement will tumble out: “I just want to be where He wants.”  I love that heart.  I know I’m strange and all, but I’ve thought deeply about this many times and for a long time. I’ve counseled literally hundreds of ministers who have made basically the same statement with regards to a significantly challenging choice or move. 

I contend that our heart has to be more about what He wants. And that if we get the what right, the where is not nearly as significant. God made us human types a people of choice.  I get the grand privilege of evaluating and deciding. I get to look at my set of skills and talents (can I learn French), the spiritual needs of my family (some children thrive in an environment where there are more Christians, others struggle with being needed in that environment), the responsibility of physical needs being met (1 Timothy 5:8), the people I am most effective with, and then I get to decide where I’ll serve.  

And the what? He wants: Our faith and faithfulness. Us to care for our family. The growth and health of His Family.