Ministry of W. Austin Gardner

Do Right, Leave Results to God

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:00:19 GMT

How to stay faithful when you feel forgotten

Have you ever done something really good, something that took a lot of guts or a lot of heart, only to have it completely ignored? Maybe you stayed late to finish a project, and your boss didn't even say "thanks." Or perhaps you went out of your way to help a friend, and they didn't even acknowledge the sacrifice.

It stings, doesn't it? We live in a world that thrives on the "attaboy." We want the likes, the shares, and the gold stars. We want people to see how hard we are working and how "right" we are being. But there is a massive trap hidden in that desire for recognition. When we live for the applause of people, we become their slaves.

In my fifty-plus years of ministry, I’ve seen this play out a thousand times. I’ve felt the sting of being overlooked myself. However, the story of Mordecai in the book of Esther gives us a completely different way to live. It’s a way that leads to incredible freedom and a deep, settled rest in the Grace of God.

Let’s look at a moment in history where a good deed seemed to have been completely forgotten.

Esther 6:2-3 “And it was found written, that Mordecai had told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the king’s chamberlains, the keepers of the door, who sought to lay hand on the king Ahasuerus. And the king said, What honour and dignity hath been done to Mordecai for this? Then said the king’s servants that ministered unto him, There is nothing done for him.”

The Man Who Didn't Need a Trophy

Mordecai was a man who understood his identity. He didn't need the king to give him a medal to know he had value. When he overheard a plot to assassinate King Ahasuerus, he reported it. He did the right thing. He saved the king’s life!

And then... nothing.

No parade. No promotion. No "Employee of the Month" parking spot. The record was written in a book, the book was closed, and Mordecai went back to sitting at the gate. If that were most of us, we would be fuming. We would be telling everyone at the water cooler, "Can you believe I saved his life and he didn't even send a thank-you note?"

But Mordecai wasn't living for the king’s recognition. He was doing right because it was right. He understood that his life was a matter of faith-based development , growing into the man God called him to be, regardless of the immediate "results." He was content to leave the outcome in the hands of the Almighty.

The Bondage of Human Approval

Why do we care so much about being recognized? It’s usually because we are looking for validation in all the wrong places. When we desperately want recognition, it leads to a state of carnality and bondage. Think about it: whoever has the power to reward you or recognize you becomes the "all-powerful" one in your life.

If you live for your boss’s praise, your boss is your master. If you live for your spouse’s approval, your spouse is your master. If you live for the "likes" on social media, the faceless crowd is your master. This is a heavy burden to carry! It keeps us in a constant state of performance, always trying to earn our worth.

Mordecai had a different philosophy. He looked to God and God alone to meet his needs. This is the secret to true freedom. When you decide to do right, leave results to God , you are no longer a slave to what people think. You aren't "bought" by the promise of a promotion or "broken" by the threat of being ignored. You are simply a child of God, resting in His unconditional love.

Playing to an Audience of One

I’ve often said that we should play to an "Audience of ONE." If He is pleased, nothing else matters. If the Creator of the universe looks at your heart and sees that you are acting out of love and obedience, does it really matter if the king forgets to throw a party?

When we rest in the finished work of Christ, we realize that we aren't being graded. God isn't looking at us with a clipboard, marking down every time we fail to get noticed. He is looking at us through the lens of Mercy . He loves us exactly as we are, right now.

Obedience isn't a ladder we climb to get God to notice us. It’s a response to the fact that He has already noticed us and loved us with an everlasting love. When you know you are fully loved, you can do your job with excellence, stay faithful in the dark, and wait patiently at the gate: even when it looks like your good deeds have been buried in a dusty book.

The Danger of the Haman Heart

Now, contrast Mordecai with Haman. Haman is the ultimate example of someone living for recognition. He was obsessed with status. He wanted everyone to bow to him. When Mordecai refused to bow, Haman’s entire life was ruined. He couldn't enjoy his wealth or his power because one guy at the gate didn't give him the "respect" he thought he deserved.

Haman was constantly scheming, straining, and stressing to take care of himself and protect his ego. Meanwhile, Mordecai was just... sitting at the gate. Mordecai was at rest. Haman was in a panic.

Which life do you want? The life of the schemer, or the life of the truster? I think I prefer to trust God and His working rather than my own frantic efforts to be seen. As I have navigated through Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and a severe bout with COVID, I have learned that my strength doesn't come from my performance. It comes from my weakness being held by His grace. You can read more about that journey in my book, Rising Above the Hurt .

God’s Perfect Timing

The beautiful thing about this story is that God didn't actually forget Mordecai. He was just waiting for the perfect moment.

In Esther chapter 6, the king can’t sleep. He asks for the chronicles to be read to him. Of all the pages in all the books, the servant happens to read the one about Mordecai. And he reads it at the exact moment when Haman is walking into the court to ask for permission to hang Mordecai!

God’s timing is impeccable. If the king had rewarded Mordecai the day it happened, it would have been a nice story. But because God waited, the reward became the very thing that saved the entire Jewish nation from destruction.

God has a way of rewarding His people at just the right minute. If you feel forgotten today, take heart. The record is written. The Father sees you. He knows exactly how and when to move on your behalf. You don’t have to strain. You don’t have to scheme. You just have to trust.

A Challenge to Rest

I challenge you today to do right, leave results to God . Stop looking at the scoreboard. Stop checking to see if anyone noticed. Do your job the best way you know how, love your family with everything you’ve got, and serve your neighbor with a smile: all for the glory of God.

If you are struggling with the pressure to perform or the fear that you are "behind," I want you to remember this: Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first. You are already accepted. You are already loved. You are already chosen.

Let go of the need for human recognition. It’s a shallow well that will always leave you thirsty. Instead, drink deeply from the well of His Grace . When you live for the "Audience of One," you’ll find a peace that the world can’t give and certainly can’t take away.

If you're having a hard time believing that God could love you without all the performance, I invite you to read more about The Big Leap of Faith . It might just change the way you see your Father.

Nothing is more freeing than realizing that God is for you, Christ is enough, and you can truly rest.

FAQ: Trusting God with the Results

How do I handle the frustration when I’m overlooked?
The key is to shift your focus from the person who overlooked you to the God who sees everything. Remind yourself that you are playing to an "Audience of One." When you realize that your reward and identity come from Him, the sting of human rejection starts to fade.

Does "leaving results to God" mean I should stop working hard?
Not at all! It actually allows you to work harder and with more joy because you aren't paralyzed by the fear of failure or the need for praise. You work with excellence as an act of worship, knowing that the outcome is in much more capable hands than your own.

What if the "right" thing I did caused me more trouble?
Mordecai faced death threats even after saving the king. Doing right doesn't always lead to an immediate "happy ending" in the world's eyes, but it always leads to peace with God. Trust that even in the trouble, His Mercy is following you, and His grace is sufficient for the trial.

#AustinGardner #Grace #Mercy #FaithBasedDevelopment #FollowedByMercy

The Branch Doesn't Sweat

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:05:06 GMT

Why the Fruit of the Spirit is Participation, Not Performance

Have you ever walked through an orchard and seen a branch look stressed? Have you ever noticed an apple tree grunting, straining, or sweating to produce a crop? Of course not. That would be a ridiculous sight. Yet, many of us live our Christian lives exactly like that. We wake up every morning feeling the heavy weight of religious expectation. We think that if we just try harder, pray longer, or feel more "spiritual," we might finally produce the Fruit of the Spirit that God is looking for.

After more than 50 years in ministry and coaching, I have seen so many good people burn out on this treadmill. They love God, but they are exhausted by the "Do" of religion. They have been taught that their standing with God depends on their performance. Consequently, they live in a constant state of fear that they aren't doing enough. However, I want to share a secret with you that changed my life: The branch doesn't sweat because its job isn't to perform. Its job is to participate.

Religion Says Do, Grace Says Done

The biggest hurdle in the Christian life is moving from a performance mindset to a rest mindset. Religion is a relentless taskmaster. It tells you that you must change to be loved. It insists that you must manufacture love, joy, and peace through sheer willpower. Essentially, religion says "Do."

On the other hand, the Gospel of Grace tells a completely different story. Grace says, "Done." It tells us that Jesus has already finished the work. He has already secured your identity and your seat at the Father’s table. When you realize that you are already fully loved exactly as you are, the pressure to perform simply evaporates. This is why it is so important to take the big leap of faith and believe that God isn't grading your consistency today.

John 15:5 “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

Jesus didn't say, "I am the vine, and you are the factory workers." He called us branches. A branch is a participant in the life of the vine. It doesn't have a life of its own; it simply receives the life flowing through it. Therefore, the Fruit of the Spirit is not something you produce for God; it is something He produces through you as you rest in Him.

Understanding Participation Over Performance

When we talk about participation, we are talking about union. You are one with Christ. Because of the finished work of Jesus, His life is now your life. You don't have to beg for more patience or strain to be more kind. Specifically, you simply need to realize that Patient One and Kind One live inside you.

When you struggle with anger, for example, the religious performance route tells you to "try harder to be nice." This almost always leads to failure and shame. Meanwhile, the participation route invites you to say, "Lord, I’m feeling angry right now, but I thank You that You are my peace. I’m going to rest in Your life flowing through me."

This shift is subtle but profound. It moves you from being a manufacturer to being a distributor. You are not the source of the fruit; you are the display case. When you stop sweating the results, you actually start seeing the results.

Love: It Is Not Based on Feelings

One of the most common mistakes we make is confusing the Fruit of the Spirit with our emotional state. We think that if we don't feel loving, then we aren't bearing fruit. But let’s be honest, feelings are fickle. They change with the weather, your health, or how much sleep you got last night.

In the Kingdom of God, love is not a feeling; it is a Person. Since Christ is in you, Love is in you. Even on the days when your emotions are flat or your heart feels heavy, you are still "in the vine." Your participation in God’s life isn't canceled because you had a bad day.

My wife Betty and I have been married for over 52 years. There have been many days when we didn't "feel" like we were in a romantic movie, but our union was never in question. We entered into our marriage based on our identity as husband and wife, not on the mood of the moment. It is the same with God. You participate in His love because of your union with Him, and the fruit follows that reality.

Resting in the Finished Work

If you find yourself exhausted today, it’s a sign that you’ve wandered back into the "Do" of religion. You might be trying to prove your worth or earn God's favor. But remember, "Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first."

God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by how much fruit you produced this week. He is looking at His Son, and because you are in His Son, He sees you as perfect, accepted, and highly favored. When you truly believe this, you stop sweating. You start abiding. And when you abide, the fruit, the love, the joy, the peace, starts to show up naturally.

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

Notice it doesn't say "the fruits" (plural). It is one fruit with many expressions. It is the life of Jesus manifesting in your unique personality. Your job is simply to stay connected, to listen to His voice, and to trust that He is enough for whatever you are facing today.

Confidence for the Journey

You don't have to be afraid of failing God. He knew every mistake you would ever make before He ever called you. His mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions; it is running toward you with intention. You are not being graded. You are being held.

So, take a deep breath. Let the tension go from your shoulders. You are a branch, and your Vine is the King of Kings. He has all the life, all the power, and all the fruit you will ever need. Your only responsibility is to participate in the beautiful life He has already given you.

FAQ about the Fruit of the Spirit

Is the Fruit of the Spirit something I have to work for?

No, the Fruit of the Spirit is a natural byproduct of abiding in Christ. Just as a branch doesn't struggle to grow fruit, a believer doesn't have to "work" to produce spiritual qualities; they flow naturally from a life surrendered to the Holy Spirit.

What if I don't feel like I have any joy or peace?

Our feelings often lie to us, but the truth of our union with Christ remains constant. Even when you don't feel joyful, the Joyful One lives inside you, and you can choose to participate in His life rather than your own temporary emotions.

How do I "abide" in the vine practically?

Abiding is simply staying aware of God's presence and resting in His finished work. It means talking to Him throughout your day, trusting His Word over your circumstances, and remembering that you are already fully accepted because of Jesus.

#grace #faith #spiritualgrowth #austingardner #fruitofthespirit

The Weight of the Bosom

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 12:30:02 GMT

Why Leadership is Burden-Bearing

Most of us have been taught that leadership is about influence, strategy, and getting people to follow a vision. We read books on managing systems and maximizing productivity. However, when we look at Moses's life, we see a completely different picture of what it means to lead. Specifically, in the book of Numbers, we find a leader who is absolutely at the end of his rope.

The people are complaining again, and the weight of their needs is crushing him. Consequently, Moses cries out to God with a question that upends our modern understanding of leadership. He doesn't ask for a better organizational chart or a new management technique. Instead, he asks about the physical and emotional cost of carrying people.

Numbers 11:12 “Have I conceived all this people? have I begotten them, that thou shouldest say unto me, Carry them in thy bosom, as a nursing father beareth the sucking child, unto the land which thou swarest unto their fathers?”

In this raw moment, Moses reveals the true nature of biblical leadership. It is not about standing on a platform and pointing the way. Rather, it is about the intimate, often heavy reality of burden-bearing. To understand this, we have to look closely at the language and the heart of God hidden in this text.

Unpacking The Hebrew Heart of Leadership

When Moses asks if he must "carry" the people, he uses the Hebrew word nasa. This is one of the most significant words in the Old Testament. Its root meaning is to lift up, to bear, or to take away. While we often think of leading as "moving forward," the Hebrew thought behind nasa suggests that leading is actually "lifting up."

Interestingly, this is the same word used throughout Scripture for bearing sin or carrying a burden. When a leader is called to nasa a people, they aren't just directing them. They are literally taking on the weight of those people themselves. Therefore, leadership is not a position of power; it is a position of weight.

If you feel the "heaviness" of leadership today, you aren't doing it wrong. Actually, that heaviness is the proof that you are operating in a biblical model. You are carrying souls, not just supervising tasks. This kind of leadership requires more than just a sharp mind; it requires a strong back and a tender heart.

The Bosom vs. The Boardroom

Moses mentions carrying the people in his "bosom." In ancient Hebrew culture, the bosom symbolized protection, intimacy, and identity. It was the fold of the garment where a person would keep their most precious belongings or where a parent would hold a child.

In our modern world, we are often told to keep a professional distance. We are warned not to get too "emotionally involved" with those we lead. However, the biblical model of a "bosom leader" suggests that if you aren't close enough to feel their heartbeat, you aren't close enough to lead them.

Management happens from a distance, but ministry happens in the bosom. This means leadership is inherently relational and deeply personal. It is the opposite of the "distant manager" who issues memos from an ivory tower. A true leader, like Austin Gardner , knows that you cannot help someone heal or grow if you are unwilling to let them into your personal space.

The Image of the Nursing Father

One of the most striking phrases in this verse is "as a nursing father beareth the sucking child." This imagery is incredibly counter-cultural. Moses uses a maternal image: a nursing child, to describe a male leader’s responsibility. This tells us that leadership is parental in nature.

A "nursing father" (or caregiver) is someone who nourishes, protects, and sustains a life that cannot survive on its own. It is a picture of total dependence. The child contributes nothing to the relationship but its needs. Meanwhile, the caregiver gives everything.

Many leaders today struggle because they expect the people they lead to "add value" to them. We want the team to make us look good or make our jobs easier. But if we follow the pattern in Numbers 11, we realize that we are there to sustain them. We are the ones who bear the cost so that they can grow.

https://cdn.marblism.com/njtc9onpShg.webp

Why the Burden Feels Unbearable

Moses eventually breaks down because he realizes he cannot be the "source" for all these people. He tells God, "I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me." This is a crucial theological turning point.

While we are called to carry people, we were never meant to be their ultimate sustainer. That role belongs to God alone. When we try to be the "source" instead of the "steward," we burn out. We become legalistic, performance-driven, and exhausted.

“You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held.”

If you are feeling the crushing weight of leadership, remember that you are a "nursing father," but God is the Father of the family. You are carrying them in your bosom, but God is carrying you in His. For more on how to rest in this reality, I encourage you to read about The Big Leap of Faith . Understanding that you are loved exactly as you are changes how you carry others.

Leading from the Finished Work

In the New Testament, we see the ultimate fulfillment of this burden-bearing in Jesus. He is the Good Shepherd who nasa (carries) the lost sheep on His shoulders. He is the One who took the weight of the entire world’s sin and carried it to the cross.

Because of what Jesus did, our leadership doesn't have to be a desperate struggle to perform. We lead out of the overflow of being loved. When we understand that the heavy lifting of our salvation and our worth is already finished, we can carry others with grace instead of grit.

Leadership is still hard. It still involves sacrifice. However, it is a sacrifice that flows from a place of security. We aren't carrying people to earn God's favor; we are carrying them because we have already received it. This is the heart of Austin Gardner ’s ministry and the mission of Alignment Ministries .

Practical Steps for the Burdened Leader

Acknowledge the weight. Stop pretending that leadership is easy. Admit to God that the people are heavy and the responsibility is significant.
Move closer. If you’ve become a "distant manager," ask God to give you a "bosom heart." Look for ways to connect personally with those you serve.
Find your elders. Just as God gave Moses seventy elders to share the burden, you need a community. Don't try to be the hero who carries the world alone.
Rest in your identity. Your value is not tied to how well you lead or how much you accomplish. You are a child of God first.

The goal of leadership is not to reach a destination where you no longer have to carry anything. The goal is to become more like Christ, the ultimate Burden-Bearer. As you carry your "sucking child" toward the land God promised, do it with the confidence that you are never walking alone.

If you’d like to hear more about navigating the messy parts of ministry with grace, check out the Followed By Mercy podcast . We talk about these real-life leadership struggles every week.

FAQ: Biblical Leadership and Burden-Bearing

What is the difference between management and biblical leadership?
Management focuses on systems, processes, and efficiency to reach a goal. Biblical leadership focuses on the spiritual health and growth of people, treating the relationship with the "bosom" intimacy of a parent.

Why does leadership feel so heavy and isolating?
Leadership is heavy because you are carrying the weight of others' struggles and growth (nasa). It feels isolating when we forget that we are stewards, not the source, of the life we are leading.

How can I carry others without burning out?
The key is to lead from a place of "rest." You must realize that God is carrying you while you carry them. When you stop trying to earn God’s love through your leadership performance, the burden becomes a labor of love rather than a weight of fear.

#AustinGardner #BiblicalLeadership #GraceCentered #MinistryMindset #FollowedByMercy

Hope for the Weary

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 12:49:40 GMT

How the Fruit of the Spirit Heals the Hurt

Have you ever felt like you are simply failing at being a "good" Christian? You look at your life and see frustration where there should be peace. You find irritation where you expected to find patience. Specifically, you look at the list of the fruit of the Spirit and feel a weight of condemnation because you don't think you measure up.

Most of us treat the fruit of the Spirit like a spiritual to-do list. We wake up and try really hard to be more loving or more joyful. However, by noon, the traffic is heavy, the kids are screaming, or the news is bad, and our "fruit" has withered away. We lose hope because we focus on our own performance rather than on the Gardener.

I want to encourage you today: the fruit of the Spirit is not about your ability to be perfect. On the contrary, it is about the Spirit’s presence in the middle of your mess. Real growth doesn't happen because you tried harder; it happens because you are connected to the Vine. If you are feeling weary and worn out, there is hope for you.

The Gardener in the Dark: Growth Unseen

We often assume that spiritual growth only happens when things are going well. We think that love, joy, and peace are things we experience when life is sunny. However, the most profound growth usually happens in the dark. If you look at the life of Hezekiah, you will find a beautiful principle hidden in the text about how God works.

Isaiah 37:31 “And the remnant that is escaped of the house of Judah shall again take root downward, and bear fruit upward:”

Notice the order there. Before there is ever fruit appearing "upward," there must be a taking of the root "downward." Roots grow in the dark, cold, damp soil where no one can see them. Consequently, your season of pain or "darkness" might actually be the most fruitful season of your life.

I remember sitting in a hospital room, facing a diagnosis of Stage 4 Kidney Cancer. Later, I battled COVID-19 when it seemed like my body had nothing left to give. Those were dark days. I didn't feel "joyful" in a bubbly, happy sense. I didn't feel like a spiritual giant. Nevertheless, in that darkness, the Holy Spirit was doing a work that I couldn't see. He was teaching me a peace that passes understanding because my own strength had completely failed.

If you are in a dark season right now, do not mistake the darkness for God’s absence. The Gardener is most active when the seeds are underground. He is tending to your roots. You aren't failing just because you don't see a harvest yet. You are being held and prepared.

Mercy as the Catalyst for Growth

The reason we struggle to grow is often that we are motivated by fear rather than by grace. We think God is standing over us with a clipboard, checking off whether we were "kind" enough today. If we fail, we expect a reprimand. This performance-based thinking actually kills the very fruit we want to produce. Essentially, you cannot grow fruit in a climate of fear.

Fruit requires the right environment. That environment is mercy. When you realize that you are already fully loved and accepted by God because of the finished work of Jesus, the pressure to perform disappears. Naturally, this is what I call The Big Leap of Faith . You have to believe that God loves you exactly as you are, right in the middle of your struggle.

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

Did you notice that it is called the fruit of the Spirit? It is not the "fruit of the Christian’s hard work." Therefore, the pressure is off of you. Your job isn't to manufacture love; your job is to rest in the Love that is already pursuing you. Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions; it is running toward you with intention. When you sit in that mercy, kindness and goodness start to grow naturally, just like an apple tree doesn't have to scream and strain to produce an apple. It just happens because of the life inside the tree.

A Call to Hope: Resting in the Gardener’s Skill

If you feel like you are failing, I have good news: God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency. He knows your frame, and He remembers that we are but dust. Your weariness is not a barrier to Him; it is often the very place where His strength is made perfect.

Psalm 34:18 “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”

Healing the hurt in your life starts with resting in the Gardener’s skill rather than your own. You don't have to fix yourself before you can experience the fruit of the Spirit. In fact, rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first. When you rest in your union with Christ, His life begins to flow through yours.

The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first. Whether you are dealing with a health crisis, a broken relationship, or just the heavy weight of daily life, look away from your own empty hands and look at His full ones.

God’s mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope. You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held by the One who began a good work in you and is more than capable of finishing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I still feel angry or anxious if the Holy Spirit is in me?
Feeling these emotions doesn't mean the Spirit is absent; it means you are human and living in a broken world. The fruit of the Spirit is a process of growth, not an overnight switch, and God uses your honesty about these feelings to draw you closer to His grace.

How can I "produce" more fruit when I feel completely empty?
You don't produce fruit by trying harder, but by abiding more deeply in the love of Jesus. Focus on His finished work and His unconditional love for you, and you will find that His character naturally begins to surface in your life.

Does God get frustrated when I keep failing at the same things?
No, God is not surprised by your weaknesses, and He is never frustrated with His children. He is a patient Gardener who knows that growth takes time, and He remains committed to you because His love is rooted in His character, not in your performance.

#FruitOfTheSpirit #HopeForTheWeary #GraceAndMercy #AustinGardner #IdentityInChrist

The Inward Shrine

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:45:02 GMT

Living as the Fruit-Bearing Temple of God

For many years, I lived as if God were a distant landlord checking in on my progress. I thought that if I did enough, prayed enough, and worked enough, I might eventually invite Him into the living room of my life. However, the reality of the New Covenant is far more radical and beautiful than that. You aren't working to get God to show up; rather, you are already the place where He lives. You are the inward shrine, the very dwelling place of the Most High.

Understanding this truth changes everything about how we live, serve, and grow. Most of us are exhausted because we are trying to build a temple that Jesus has already finished. We are trying to produce fruit that only the Holy Spirit can grow. When you realize that the "sin barrier" hasn't just been moved aside but has been completely dismissed, you can finally stop striving and start abiding.

The Barrier Is Gone

Before we can appreciate being the temple of God, we have to understand what happened to our sin. In many religious circles, we are taught that God "pardoned" us, almost like a judge who lets a criminal off on a technicality while still keeping the file in the drawer. But the New Testament uses a powerful word.

This word means more than just a legal pardon. It means to send away, to dismiss, or to cancel a debt so completely that the record no longer exists. Consequently, the debris of your past is not just covered; it is removed from the site. When Jesus said, "It is finished," He was declaring that the barrier between you and God was permanently dismantled.

Psalm 103:12 "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us."

Because of this total dismissal, there is nothing left to keep God out of your heart. Religion says "Do" to get close to God, but Grace says "Done." Therefore, you don't have to clean yourself up to become a temple. The blood of Jesus has already sanctified the ground of your life. Specifically, you have been made a fit habitation for the Spirit of God right now, not in some distant future when you finally get your act together.

You Are The Inner Shrine of the Heart

In Greek, there are two words for "temple." The first refers to the entire temple complex, the courtyards, the porches, and the outer areas where the crowds gathered. However, when the Apostle Paul tells us that we are the temple of God, he uses a different word.

This word is the inner shrine. It is the Holy of Holies, the very place where the presence of God rested upon the mercy seat. This is a staggering thought. You are not just a "church person" or part of a religious complex. You are the inward shrine where the Creator of the universe makes His home.

1 Corinthians 6:19 "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?"

As I discuss in my post Bigger on the Inside , the reality of God dwelling in you makes you far more significant than your external circumstances suggest. When you walk into a room, the presence of God walks in with you. Meanwhile, we often spend our lives feeling small and insignificant because we look at the hieron (the outward appearance) instead of the naos (the inward reality). You are the sacred space where heaven and earth meet.

Abiding in the Vine: A Present Reality

Once we realize we are the temple, we have to examine how it functions. Jesus gave us the perfect picture in the Gospel of John. He didn't describe a factory where we manufacture spiritual goods; He described a vine and its branches.

John 15:5 "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."

Many people read this and think that "abiding" means following a new set of rules. They worry, "Am I abiding enough? Have I done my quiet time so I can stay on the vine?" But look closely at the language. A branch doesn't struggle to stay on the vine. It is simply there. It is a present reality of your salvation.

You are already in union with Christ. This union is not a reward for your faithfulness; it is the gift of His grace. Consequently, your life as a fruit-bearing temple isn't about trying to get connected; it’s about resting in the connection that already exists. You can find more resources on living from this place of rest in The Resource Guide .

Fruit Without the Sweat: The Organic Outflow of Grace

The most beautiful thing about a fruit-bearing temple is that the fruit is produced without "sweaty" help. Have you ever seen an apple tree straining, grunting, and turning red in the face trying to grow an apple? Of course not. The fruit is the natural, organic outflow of the life that is in the tree.

In the same way, the fruit of the Spirit, love, joy, peace, longsuffering, is not the result of your self-discipline. It is the result of God's indwelling presence. When we try to "do" the fruit, we just end up with wax imitations that look good on the outside but have no life in them.

Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

Notice that it is the fruit of the Spirit, not the fruit of the Christian. Our job is simply to believe that God is who He says He is and that He is in us doing what He said He would do. For example, if you find yourself lacking peace, the answer isn't to work harder at being peaceful. The answer is to turn inward to the shrine and recognize the Prince of Peace who is already there.

Walking in the Freedom of the Finished Work

Living as the fruit-bearing temple means you can stop being a project and start being a person. You don't have to spend your days performing for a God who is already satisfied with you. This is what I call The Big Leap of Faith : believing that God loves you exactly as you are, right now.

When you live from the finished work of Christ, your motivation changes. You no longer serve because you are afraid of losing God; you serve because you are full of Him. You don't avoid sin because you are afraid of being canceled; you avoid it because it doesn't fit the sacred space.

God's mercy is not tied to conditions. It is running toward you with intention. You are not being graded on your performance as a temple. You are being held by the One who built the temple.

A Life of Rest and Assurance

If you have spent years in the "Do" of religion, this message might feel almost too good to be true. But I want to assure you that Christ is enough. You can rest. Your worth is not measured by your consistency, but by the value of the One who dwells within you.

Remember these truths as you go about your week:

Your past is dismissed. Aphiemi means the record is gone.
You are the inner shrine. You carry the presence of the Almighty.
The fruit is His work. You are just the branch.

You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held. Let the life of the Spirit flow through you today, not because you’ve earned it, but because you are His.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does God really live inside me even when I mess up?
Yes, because your position as the temple is based on the blood of Jesus, not your behavior. When you fail, you don't "evict" the Holy Spirit; rather, His presence is what convicts and comforts you, leading you back to the truth of His grace.

How do I produce more fruit if I'm not supposed to "strive"?
Fruitfulness comes from deepening your awareness of your union with Christ. Instead of focusing on the fruit, focus on the Vine: spend time resting in His love and listening to His Word, and you will find that the fruit begins to grow naturally.

What is the difference between being a "temple" and just going to church?
Going to church is a physical activity, but being the temple is your spiritual identity. While gathering with others is wonderful, your connection to God doesn't start or end at the church door; you are His dwelling place twenty-four hours a day.

Want to dive deeper into living a life followed by mercy?

Listen to the Followed by Mercy Podcast for more encouraging truths.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel @waustingardner for weekly teaching.
Explore more about Alignment Ministries and how we help leaders lead from grace.

#Grace #FaithBasedDevelopment #AustinGardner #IdentityInChrist #FinishedWork

The Fruit in the Fog

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:45:00 GMT

Finding Encouragement When Growth Feels Slow

Have you ever woken up in the morning, looked out the window, and seen nothing but a thick, gray blanket of fog? You know the trees are there. You know the road is there. However, you just cannot see them. Sometimes, our walk with the Lord feels exactly like that morning mist. We are doing the right things, praying, reading, and serving, but we feel stuck. We look for the "fruit" of joy, peace, or radical transformation, but all we see is the fog of our daily routine or the heavy clouds of a difficult season.

If you feel like your spiritual progress is moving at a snail’s pace, I want to encourage you today. The fruit in the fog is still growing, even when you cannot see it. In fact, some of the most delicious fruit in your life is being produced right now in the middle of your uncertainty. Spiritual growth is rarely a lightning bolt of change; instead, it is usually the slow, quiet work of the Spirit over many seasons.

Why Does Growth Feel So Slow?

We live in a world that demands instant results. If we want food, we microwave it. If we want information, we search for it on our phones. Consequently, we often approach our relationship with God with the same "on-demand" expectation. We think that if we spent thirty minutes in the Word this morning, we should feel like a spiritual giant by noon. When we don't feel that surge of "growth," we start to worry that we are failing or that God has moved on to someone more productive.

Specifically, we must remember that God is a Gardener, and gardeners are never in a hurry. He is not interested in producing plastic fruit that looks good but has no substance. He is interested in the real thing. Real fruit takes seasons. It takes rain, it takes heat, and yes, it often takes a lot of time in the dark soil before anything breaks the surface.

John 15:5 "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."

Your job is not to manufacture the fruit. Your job is to abide in the Vine. Meanwhile, the Holy Spirit is the one doing the heavy lifting of transformation. If you are staying connected to Jesus, growth is happening, whether you "feel" it today or not.

Wisdom from 50 Years: The Hardest Years Produced the Best Fruit

I have been in ministry for over 50 years. I have seen mountain peaks and walked through very deep, dark valleys. When I look back at my life, specifically my time as a missionary in the mountains of Peru or my more recent battles with Stage 4 cancer and COVID-19, I realized something profound. The years when I felt the most "stagnant" or "foggy" were actually the years of the greatest growth.

When Betty and I were facing those health crises, there were many days when I didn't feel "spiritual." I felt tired. I felt weak. I felt like I was just trying to keep my head above water. In those moments, it didn't feel like I was growing; it felt like I was breaking. Therefore, I had to learn to trust the Vine even when I couldn't see the fruit.

Looking back, I can see that those "foggy" years made me Bigger on the Inside . The grace I experienced while lying in a hospital bed was more transformative than any "productive" day I ever had in an office. God used the fog to prune away my self-reliance and replace it with a deeper trust in His finished work. He taught me that His love for me wasn't based on how many souls I reached that year, but on the fact that I am His child.

Stop Judging the Harvest by Today’s Feelings

One of the biggest mistakes we make is judging our spiritual maturity by our current emotions. For example, you might feel a lack of "fire" today. You might feel distracted or even a bit numb. That does not mean you aren't growing. Farmers do not dig up their seeds every morning to see if they’ve sprouted yet; if they did, the seeds would never grow!

Instead of looking at your growth day to day, look at it year to year. Think back to where you were two or three years ago. Do you have a little more patience than you used to? Are you a little quicker to trust God's goodness when things go wrong? Even a small "yes" to those questions is evidence of the Spirit's work.

Galatians 6:9 "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."

The "due season" is God’s timing, not ours. You might be in a season of root-building right now. Roots aren't pretty, and nobody sees them, but they are the most important part of the tree. Without deep roots grown in the "foggy" seasons of life, you won't be able to sustain the fruit that comes in the sunshine. This is a vital part of your Personal Development as a believer.

Abiding is Enough

I want to take the pressure off you today. You aren't failing just because you aren't feeling an overwhelming sense of joy or peace right now. Sometimes, the most spiritual thing you can do is simply show up and stay connected to the Lord.

Abiding isn't about running faster; it’s about resting deeper. It’s about believing that The Big Leap of Faith is simply believing God loves you exactly as you are, right here in the middle of the fog. He isn't disappointed in your "slow" progress. He is the one who designed the pace of your growth!

“God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency.” This truth changed my life. When I stopped trying to perform for God and started resting in His love, the fruit began to grow naturally. Loved people become loving people. It is a natural byproduct of being in His presence.

A winding path through the trees reminds us that the journey is often obscured, but the light is always breaking through.

Trusting the Gardener’s Hand

When you can’t see the fruit, trust the Gardener. He knows exactly what nutrients you need. He knows when you need the "rain" of a difficult trial and when you need the "sunshine" of a season of rest. He is not an absentee landlord; He is a Father who is intimately involved in every detail of your life.

If you are in a season where everything feels slow, take heart. You are not being graded. You are being held. The fog will eventually lift, and when it does, you will see that the Lord has been producing something beautiful in your character that could not have grown any other way.

Philippians 1:6 "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:"

God is committed to you. He is the author and the finisher of your faith. You can rest today knowing that His grace is enough, His timing is perfect, and His love is unconditional.

FAQ: Encouragement for the Journey

Why do I feel like I am backsliding when I try so hard to grow?

Feeling like you are struggling often means you are becoming more aware of your need for God’s grace. Growth often looks like realizing we can do nothing without Him, which drives us to deeper dependence. Remember, your standing with God is based on Jesus' finished work, not your daily performance.

How can I tell if I’m actually growing spiritually?

Growth is best measured over long periods rather than daily feelings. Look for small shifts in your reactions: are you a bit more peaceful in traffic, or more likely to pray when worried? These "small" things are the real fruit of the Spirit taking root in your life.

What should I do when I feel "numb" toward God?

Keep abiding. Even when the emotions aren't there, continue your simple habits of grace: read a few verses, talk to Him honestly about your numbness, and rest. "Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first." God’s love for you is not dependent on your emotional intensity.

Ready to dive deeper into resting in God's grace?

Listen to the Followed By Mercy podcast for more encouragement: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for weekly wisdom: @waustingardner
Discover resources for your ministry journey at Alignment Ministries : https://www.alignmentministries.com
Read more about resting in His love: The Big Leap of Faith

#AustinGardner #Grace #FaithBasedDevelopment #FollowedByMercy #SpiritualGrowth

The Shield of Favor

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:15:02 GMT

Why You’re Already Surrounded by Grace

I often find myself awake, staring at the ceiling and running through a mental checklist of everything that could go wrong. Specifically, I think about the economy, my family's mounting needs, or the weight of the ministry. Maybe you do the same. We live in a world that demands high performance and constant vigilance, leaving us exhausted and fearful. However, Scripture offers a completely different reality for the child of God. In the middle of our mess and our Monday morning anxieties, we find a promise that changes everything.

Austin Gardner has spent over 50 years in ministry, and if there is one thing I’ve learned through Stage 4 cancer and global health crises, it’s that we are not holding ourselves up. God is the one holding us. When we look at David's words in the Psalms, we see a picture of a believer who isn’t just "getting by." Instead, this person is completely enveloped by the goodness of God. Specifically, the Shield of Favor offers a form of security the world simply cannot provide.

Psalm 5:11-12 “But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.”

Understanding the Condition of Trust

We often read verses like this and immediately slip into a "worker" mindset. We think, "If I can just trust enough, or love enough, then God will finally protect me." Consequently, we turn a beautiful promise into a heavy burden. But let’s look closer at what David is saying. He mentions those who put their trust in Him. For me, that started with trusting the Lord Jesus Christ for my salvation. It continues today by trusting Him to meet my needs every single hour.

However, we don’t trust God because we are great "trusters." We trust Him because He is fundamentally trustworthy. I love Him because He first loved me, as we see in Romans 5:8 and 1 John 4:19. Therefore, trust isn't a performance you put on to get God’s attention. It is the natural response of an heir who realizes their Father owns the cattle on a thousand hills. When you stop trying to earn His protection and start resting in His character, the anxiety begins to fade.

The Defender in the Gap

David tells us to rejoice because God defends us. Think about that for a moment. In the ancient world, a defender stood between the vulnerable and the predator. Today, we have enemies that are just as real. Satan wants to accuse you, sin wants to destroy your peace, and the pressures of the world want to crush your spirit. Nevertheless, they cannot get to you because God has stepped into the gap.

I used to worry constantly about whether God was pleased with me. I felt like I was being graded on a curve, and I was failing. But the "finished work" of Jesus tells a different story. Because of the blood shed on Calvary, you are already accepted. You are already defended. Consequently, you can stop looking over your shoulder. Whether you are facing a failing economy or a family crisis, you aren't fighting these battles alone. God Himself stands as your personal Defender. He isn't defending you because you’ve been perfect; He is defending you because you belong to Him.

Surrounded by a Massive Shield

The most striking part of this passage is the description of favor. David says that God will "compass" the righteous with favor as with a shield. In the original language, this doesn't refer to a small buckler that you move around to catch a single arrow. Specifically, it refers to the tsin'nāh, a massive, full-body shield that covered a soldier from head to toe.

This means you are surrounded. To be "compassed" means that everywhere you turn, you run into God’s favor. For example, when I look back at my battle with cancer or the times I felt "canceled" by the opinions of others, I can see this shield. It was there in the hospital room and in the quiet moments of loneliness.

God’s Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention. You are not just "blessed" in one area of your life while vulnerable in another. You are wrapped in a 360-degree perimeter of divine delight. This favor is His acceptance of you in Christ. It is His "good pleasure" directed toward you, not because of what you did yesterday, but because of who He is today.

A Response of Radical Joy

When you truly grasp that you are defended and surrounded, your reaction changes. David says we should "shout for joy." Now, I know some of us are a bit more reserved. However, it is hard to stay quiet when you realize the King of the universe is your personal bodyguard. This isn't a fake, "put on a happy face" kind of joy. It is a deep-seated satisfaction in Jesus that remains even when the circumstances are screaming.

Are you rejoicing today? Are you singing and shouting because you know the outcome is already secured? Naturally, we get distracted by the storms. But when we refocus on the relationship we have with Him, joy is the only logical response. We have been bought by the blood, filled with the Spirit, and tucked away behind a shield of grace. That is a reason to be joyful!

Moving from Performance to Satisfaction

The religious world wants to keep you on a treadmill. It tells you that if you do more, God will love you more. It suggests that if you work harder, the shield will get thicker. But grace tells us that the shield is already as thick as it can get because it is made of Christ’s own righteousness.

I want to encourage you to stop the performance. Stop worrying if you’ve done "enough" to keep God on your side. He is already there. He has already blessed you. He is already defending your family and your future. Find your total satisfaction in Jesus today. When you realize you are an heir and not a hired hand, you can finally breathe. You can finally rest.

If you are struggling to believe that God really feels this way about you, I want you to read more about The Big Leap of Faith . It is time to believe that God loves you exactly as you are, not as you should be.

FAQ about God’s Favor and Grace

How can I feel God’s favor when my life feels like it’s falling apart?

Favor is a covenant fact, not a temporary feeling. Even when life is hard, God is working all things for your good because you are "in Christ." We trust His promise over our emotions, knowing that the shield of favor remains even in the dark.

Do I lose my "shield of favor" when I sin or fail?

No, because your shield is not built by your behavior; it is provided by Jesus' finished work. While sin can disrupt your fellowship and joy, it does not cancel your covenant identity. You are still defended by the blood of Calvary.

What is the difference between earning favor and resting in it?

Earning favor is a "worker" mindset that leads to exhaustion and fear of failure. Resting in favor is an "heir" mindset that understands the blessing was inherited through Christ. We obey and love God because we are already accepted, not so that we can become accepted.

#AustinGardner #Grace #Mercy #Psalm5 #FaithBasedDevelopment

The Exalted Little Man:

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 11:15:00 GMT

Why Seeking Recognition Is a Leadership Trap

In our modern world, we are often told that our value is tied to our visibility. We chase likes, follows, and titles, hoping that the next promotion or the next bit of public praise will finally make us feel significant. As a content creator and mentor, Austin Gardner has seen this cycle repeat itself in ministry and business alike. However, when we look at the life of a man named Haman in the book of Esther, we see a chilling portrait of what happens when a leader becomes an "exalted little man": someone whose high position only serves to highlight their small heart.

True faith-based development doesn't start with climbing a ladder; it starts with kneeling at the cross. Specifically, we need to examine why we crave recognition so deeply. If we don’t address the pride lurking in our shadows, we risk becoming exactly like Haman, whose hunger for honor eventually led to his own destruction.

The Wrath of the Exalted Little Man

The story of Haman is a fascinating study in human ego. He had been lifted to a high position by the king, yet he was a little man hung up on his status. He had the title, the wealth, and the power, but it wasn’t enough. He needed everyone to acknowledge his greatness.

Esther 3:5 “And when Haman saw that Mordecai bowed not, nor did him reverence, then was Haman full of wrath.”

Haman was an Agagite, a descendant of the Amalekites, who were the mortal enemies of the Jews.

Consequently, when Mordecai the Jew refused to bow, it wasn’t just a personal slight; it was a collision of ancient histories. Haman’s men reminded people that to disobey Haman was to disobey the king himself. Yet, Mordecai stood his ground.

Instead of ignoring the one man who wouldn't bow, Haman became consumed by it. This is the mark of a "little man." When your identity is built on the shifting sand of public recognition, a single person’s disapproval can ruin your entire day. Haman’s wrath was so extreme that he planned to destroy an entire nation just to soothe his bruised ego. Meanwhile, God was quietly moving the pieces to protect His people, just as He has throughout history.

The Struggle for Recognition in Modern Leadership

I’ll be the first to admit that I struggle with this. Even after 50 years of ministry and surviving stage 4 cancer, pride still wants to be recognized. Vanity wants to be appreciated. Someone once said that everyone’s favorite word is their name. While I’m not entirely sure that’s true, it is certainly close.

In my own journey, I have had to realize that the desire for honor is often a sign of a lack of satisfaction in Jesus . When we don't feel fully seen and loved by God, we go hunting for that validation in others' eyes. We tell ourselves, "If they would just use my title," or "If they would just remember my position," then I would feel important.

However, the truth is that Austin Gardner or anyone else in leadership is just a servant. Real leadership is found in humility. When we insist on being bowed to, we are no longer leading; we are demanding. We are moving away from the heart of the Father and toward the heart of Haman.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.”

Why We Seek the Wrong Kind of Honor

Why is our honor such a big thing to us? We live in a performance-based culture that tells us we are what we achieve. We feel that if we aren’t being recognized, we are being forgotten. This fear of being overlooked is a powerful motivator, but it’s toxic. It drives us to work harder, speak louder, and demand more respect than we’ve earned.

Specifically, we often mistake authority for importance. Haman had authority, but he lacked the internal weight of character to handle it. He was "exalted" by the king, but he was "little" in his soul. If you find yourself getting angry when someone doesn't give you the "reverence" you think you deserve, it might be time to ask why that recognition matters so much.

Faith-based development is about growing the inner man so that the outer position doesn't crush you. It’s about finding mercy for your own insecurities so you don’t have to project them onto everyone else. You can read more about finding your true identity in The Big Leap of Faith .

Leading Through Service and Humility

If the Haman attitude leads to destruction, what is the alternative? The alternative is the way of Jesus. Jesus, who had all the "reverence" of heaven, laid it aside to wash the feet of men who would soon desert Him.

True leadership doesn't demand a bow; it offers a hand. It doesn't keep a tally of who used the right title; it keeps an eye out for who needs help. When we move from a place of being loved by God, we no longer need the world to tell us we are great. We already know we are His. This is the foundation of grace that allows a leader to be corrected, overlooked, or even ignored without losing their peace.

In my years of church planting and mentoring, I’ve found that the leaders who last are the ones who have stopped trying to be "big." They have accepted their role as "little" servants of a Big God. They aren't looking for a pedestal; they are looking for a towel.

Be Careful Not to Become a Haman

The warning in the story of Haman is clear: pride goes before a fall. When we seek recognition, we are setting a trap for ourselves. Haman built a gallows for Mordecai, but he was the one who ended up hanging from it.

We must be vigilant. Are you seeking recognition today? Do you feel that "wrath" rising up when you aren't given the credit you deserve? Be careful. That attitude leads to a lonely, bitter place. Instead, turn toward the mercy that is already following you. You don't have to earn your place at the table; Jesus has already pulled out a chair for you.

When we rest in the finished work of Christ, the need for human recognition fades. We can serve with joy because we aren't trying to build our own kingdom; we are simply participating in His.

Resting in the Finished Work

At the end of the day, your worth isn't found in how many people bow to you or how many titles are attached to your name. Your worth was settled two thousand years ago on a hill outside Jerusalem. God is not measuring your value by your status. He is holding you in His love, exactly as you are.

If you’ve been acting like an "exalted little man," there is a way back. It’s called grace . You can stop the performance. You can let go of the need to be the center of attention. You can find real rest in the fact that you are loved, not for what you do, but for whose you are. Land in that confidence today. Christ is enough, and in Him, you have all the recognition you will ever need.

For more resources on leadership and spiritual growth, check out:

FAQ: Leadership and the Trap of Recognition

How do I know if I am becoming like Haman in my leadership?
Check your emotional reaction to being overlooked. If you feel intense anger or a need for "justice" when you aren't recognized, your identity might be too tied to your status. A healthy leader can handle being ignored because their security is in Christ.

Is it wrong to want to be appreciated for my hard work?
Wanting to be appreciated is a natural human desire, but it becomes a trap when it becomes a requirement for your joy. We should serve out of a place of being loved by God, rather than serving to get love from people.

How can I shift my focus from seeking recognition to serving others?
Start by practicing "secret service": doing things for others that no one else will ever know about. This helps break the addiction to public praise and refocuses your heart on the Father's unconditional love.

#AustinGardner #Grace #Mercy #Leadership #FaithBasedDevelopment #FollowedByMercy #Inspiration #SpiritualGrowth

Connect with Austin Gardner:

YouTube: @waustingardner
Newsletter: Followed by Mercy
Spanish Resources: Guillermo A. Gardner Substack

The Simple Secret to a Fruitful Life

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:01:04 GMT

Just Stay Connected

Have you ever spent an entire day trying to be a "better Christian," only to end up feeling more exhausted than when you started? I have been in ministry for over 50 years, and I can tell you that I spent far too many of those years trying to manufacture fruit instead of just letting it grow. We often treat the Fruit of the Spirit: things like love, joy, and peace: as if they are items on a spiritual grocery list that we have to check off through sheer willpower. However, The Simple Secret to a Fruitful Life: Just Stay Connected is far less about your effort and far more about your position.

When I look back at my time as a missionary in the mountains and cities of Peru, or even my more recent battles with Stage 4 cancer and a difficult recovery from COVID, I realize that my strength never came from my own resolve. It came from being tethered to something, or rather, Someone, much stronger than myself. Specifically, the secret to a life that actually looks like Jesus is found in one simple word: abide.

Why We Struggle to Be Fruitful

Most of us approach our spiritual lives like a factory. We think that if we put in enough prayer time, read enough chapters of the Bible, and try hard enough to be nice to our neighbors, we will eventually "produce" the character of Christ. Consequently, when we fail or feel irritable, we assume the machine is broken. We think we need to work harder, pray longer, or feel guiltier to get the results we want.

But the Christian life was never meant to be a manufacturing plant. It was meant to be a garden. In a garden, the branch doesn’t strain to produce a grape. It doesn't grunt, groan, or worry about its "output" for the day. Meanwhile, the branch simply stays attached to the vine. If the connection is healthy, the fruit is inevitable.

The Simple Secret to a Fruitful Life: Just Stay Connected is an invitation to stop striving and start resting. We have to realize that God is not a demanding boss looking at a production chart; He is a loving Father who simply wants His children to stay close to Him. If you find yourself struggling with a lack of peace or a short temper today, the answer isn't to try harder to be peaceful or patient. The answer is to check your connection.

Understanding the Vine and the Branches

Jesus gave us the perfect picture of this relationship in the Gospel of John. This is the heart of what it means to live a life followed by mercy. When we understand our union with Christ, the pressure of performance begins to melt away.

John 15:5 “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

Notice that Jesus doesn't say, "Without me, things will be a little more difficult." He says that without Him, we can do nothing. This is both a sobering warning and a beautiful promise. Therefore, if you feel like you’ve been doing "nothing" of spiritual value lately despite your best efforts, it might be because you’ve been trying to live as a branch detached from the vine.

Abiding simply means to remain or to stay. It is the act of settling down and making yourself at home in the love of God. My friend, you are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held. When we stay connected, His life flows into ours, and His character begins to manifest in our lives without us even realizing it. This is how faith-based development actually works: it is a growth from the inside out.

Identity Before Behavior

One of the biggest mistakes we make in our walk with God is putting behavior before identity. We think if we behave well, we will eventually earn the identity of a "good Christian." However, the Bible teaches the exact opposite. Because you are already loved, because you are already a child of God, and because you are already joined to Christ, you can now live a fruitful life.

As I often say, "Loved people become loving people." You cannot give what you have not received. If you want to be more loving, you must first receive the overwhelming, unconditional love of God for yourself. This is what I call The Big Leap of Faith : believing that God loves you exactly as you are, right now, in the middle of your mess.

John 15:4 “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.”

Specifically, this means that your fruitfulness results from your union with Christ. You don't "try" to have the Fruit of the Spirit; these traits flow from being connected to Him. When you know you are secure in His grace, you don't have to live in fear of losing His favor. I became legalistic early in my ministry because I loved God and feared losing Him. But grace taught me that He is the one holding me.

How to Abide in a Busy Day

I know what you might be thinking. "Austin, that sounds wonderful, but I have a job, three kids, and a mortgage. How do I 'abide' when the world is screaming for my attention?" This is where we have to keep things simple and grounded. Abiding isn't about spending eight hours a day in a prayer closet; it’s about a continuous awareness of His presence.

Here are a few practical ways to keep The Simple Secret to a Fruitful Life: Just Stay Connected at the forefront of your busy day:

Practice Micro-Prayers: You don't need a formal setting to talk to God. Throughout your day, simply whisper, "Lord, I'm staying connected to You right now." Whether you are folding laundry or sitting in a board meeting, acknowledge that His life is flowing through you.
Shift from "Do" to "Be": When you feel the pressure to perform rising up, stop and remind yourself of your identity. Tell yourself, "I am a branch. My only job is to stay attached to the Vine."
Rest First: Remember that rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first. Start your morning by resting in the fact that God is already pleased with you because of Jesus.
Acknowledge Grace in the Gaps: When you lose your cool or make a mistake, don't run away from God in shame. Instead, use that moment to reconnect. Say, "Lord, I see I've pulled away. I'm coming back to the Vine right now."

By doing these small things, you are training your heart to remain in Him. Consequently, you will find that the peace you’ve been chasing starts to find you.

Grace is Loud, Pressure is Quiet

Throughout my 50+ years of ministry, I’ve had to learn that the Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first. Even when I faced the dark days of being canceled or the physical pain of cancer, I had to keep the voice of grace louder than the voice of my circumstances.

My wife, Betty, and I have walked through many valleys together since we married in 1973. In every single one, the secret was the same. We didn't need a new strategy; we needed to stay connected to the Father. We had to trust that His mercy was not trailing behind us with conditions, but running toward us with intention.

If you are feeling exhausted by your religious performance today, I want you to hear this clearly: God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency. He simply wants you to stay close. When you stay connected, the fruit will come. You don't have to force it. You don't have to fake it. You just have to abide.

Rest in the Finished Work

At the end of the day, The Simple Secret to a Fruitful Life: Just Stay Connected is about trusting in the finished work of Jesus. He did the hard part. He provided the life, the nourishment, and the root system. Your job is simply to be the branch.

So, take a deep breath. Release the weight of having to "produce" something for God today. Instead, just focus on being with Him. Listen for His voice. Lean into His love. You will find that as you stay connected, love, joy, and peace will begin to sprout in your life quite naturally. God is for you, Christ is enough, and you can truly rest in His grace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does staying connected mean I don't have to do anything?
Staying connected is an active choice to depend on God rather than your own strength. While it leads to action and obedience, those actions are the "fruit" or the result of the connection, not a way to earn God's love. Your focus shifts from "working for God" to "walking with God."

What if I feel like I've been disconnected for a long time?
The beauty of the Vine and the branches is that the connection is restored the moment you turn back to Him. You don't have to go through a probationary period to get back into God's good graces. Simply acknowledge your need for Him right now and begin abiding in His love again; His mercy is ready to meet you.

How can I tell if I am actually "abiding" or just being lazy?
Abiding is characterized by a sense of internal peace, rest, and a growing desire to please God, whereas laziness is often a lack of care or interest. When you abide, you will find yourself more productive and loving because you are fueled by the Holy Spirit's power rather than your own limited energy.

Want to dive deeper into living a life of grace?

Listen to the Followed By Mercy podcast: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com
Subscribe on YouTube: @waustingardner
Read more about resting in God's love: The Big Leap of Faith

#Grace #Mercy #AustinGardner #Abide #FaithBasedDevelopment

The Leadership of Gentleness

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:15:01 GMT

When identity is settled, leadership becomes gentle

I used to think that a leader had to be the loudest voice in the room to get things done. During my early years as a missionary in the mountains of Peru, I felt the weight of every decision. Consequently, I often defaulted to a style of leadership that was more about "doing" and "demanding" than "being." I thought that if I wasn't pushing, nothing would move. However, over fifty years of ministry and a few rounds with Stage 4 cancer have taught me a different way. I have learned that the most powerful force in the universe isn't a scream; it is a whisper.

Specifically, I am talking about the leadership of gentleness.

Gentleness is often misunderstood in our high-octane, performance-driven culture. People look at a gentle man and think he is soft. They see a gentle leader and assume he lacks the "killer instinct" needed to succeed. But biblical gentleness, or meekness, is actually power under control. It is the steady hand of a surgeon rather than the wild swing of a sledgehammer. When you are secure in who you are in Christ, you don't need to use force to make people follow you. You lead from a place of rest because you know that God is already for you.

Bigger on the Inside

A leader who practices the leadership of gentleness is someone who is "bigger on the inside" than they are on the outside. What do I mean by that? I mean that their internal world, their identity, their peace, and their connection to the Father, is so vast and secure that external storms cannot shake them. If you are small on the inside, you will always try to act big on the outside. You will use title, position, and volume to compensate for the insecurity eating at your heart.

Meanwhile, the leader who knows they are loved by God doesn't need to win every argument. For example, when someone criticizes your vision or fails to meet a deadline, your first instinct isn't to crush them. Instead, because you are resting in the finished work of Jesus, you have the margin to be kind. You realize that your worth isn't tied to the success of this specific project. Your worth was settled two thousand years ago at the cross.

Matthew 11:29

“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”

Jesus, the King of Kings, described Himself as "meek and lowly." He didn't say, "Learn of me, for I am the most powerful CEO you’ll ever meet." He pointed to His heart. This is the foundation of grace-based leadership . If the Creator of the stars can be gentle with us, how can we be anything less than gentle with those we lead?

Leading Without Coercion

In the religious world, we often see leadership through the lens of performance. We think we have to "produce" to make God happy with us. Consequently, we treat the people under us like tools to help us reach our goals. This creates a culture of fear and pressure. But the leadership of gentleness operates on a different frequency. It is about influence, not coercion.

Therefore, a gentle leader focuses on building people up rather than breaking them down. When you lead with gentleness, you create a safe environment where people are free to fail. Why is this important? Because people who are afraid of failing will never take the risks necessary for true growth. If you want to see your team or your church flourish, you must move away from a law-based, "do better" mentality. You must lead them to the place where they know they are accepted exactly as they are. This is what I call the big leap of faith .

The Strength of Self-Control

Don't mistake this for passivity. Moses was called the meekest man on earth, yet he stood before Pharaoh and led millions of people through the wilderness. His strength didn't come from his own personality; it came from his dependence on God. When you stop trying to control everything, you give the Holy Spirit room to work.

Specifically, gentleness allows you to respond rather than react. When a crisis hits, a gentle leader remains calm. They don't react out of fear because they know that "God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency." If God is at peace with you, you can be at peace with the situation. This internal quietness is what makes a leader truly attractive to others. People want to follow someone who isn't constantly on the edge of a breakdown.

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

Notice that gentleness and meekness are fruits of the Spirit. This means you can't just grit your teeth and "try" to be gentle. It is the natural byproduct of staying connected to the vine. As you rest in Christ’s love, His character begins to flow through you. You become a person of grace because you have been overwhelmed by grace yourself.

Gentleness in the Mess

Leadership is messy. Whether you are planting a church in a bustling city or mentoring a young leader in a one-on-one session, you will encounter brokenness. In those moments, the temptation is to get legalistic. We want to fix the mess with rules. However, rules don't change hearts; love does.

I’ve spent years coaching men through Alignment Ministries , and the breakthrough always comes when they realize they don't have to perform. When they stop trying to earn God’s favor, they finally have the capacity to be gentle with themselves and others. "Loved people become loving people." It’s that simple. If you are struggling to be gentle with your team, ask yourself: "Do I truly believe God is gentle with me?"

If you see God as a hard taskmaster, you will be a hard taskmaster. But if you see Him as the Father who runs toward you with intention, you will lead with that same spirit of mercy. You will begin to see that mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions; it is leading the way.

Rest is the Fuel of Leadership

You might be feeling exhausted today. Maybe the pressure of leadership has left you feeling brittle and sharp. I want to tell you that rest doesn't come after you fix your leadership style. Rest comes first. Before you go back into that meeting or stand behind that pulpit, sit with the Father. Remind yourself that you are not behind, you are not being graded, and you are being held.

The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear or performance. It was meant to be lived from a place of being loved first. When you lead from that love, the leadership of gentleness becomes your natural posture. You won't have to force your way. You will find that people are drawn to the peace of Christ in you.

I encourage you to look at your leadership through the lens of the finished work. Christ has already done everything necessary for you to be successful in His eyes. You are a son, not a servant. You are a friend of God. Let that reality settle deep into your bones. Consequently, your leadership will transform from a burden into a blessing.

FAQ: The Leadership of Gentleness

Is gentleness a sign of weakness in a leader?
Absolutely not. Gentleness is actually strength under control, allowing a leader to remain calm and purposeful instead of reacting out of fear or insecurity. It shows that a leader is secure enough in their identity that they don't need to use force or volume to influence others.

How can I lead with gentleness when I’m under extreme pressure?
Leading with gentleness during pressure starts with resting in the finished work of Christ. When you realize that God is for you and your worth isn't tied to your performance, you can respond with peace rather than stress.

Does a gentle leader still hold people accountable?
Yes, but the motivation for accountability changes from punishment to restoration. A gentle leader corrects others with a spirit of love and a desire for their growth, rather than using shame or legalism to demand results.

Are you ready to stop striving and start leading from a place of rest?
Check out our primary hub article, The Big Leap of Faith , to learn how believing in God’s unconditional love changes everything.

Connect for more grace-centered leadership insights:

Listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com
Subscribe on YouTube: @waustingardner
Explore more resources at Alignment Ministries

#AustinGardner #GentleLeadership #GraceBasedLeadership #FollowedByMercy #FaithBasedDevelopment

Fruit Grows Where Grace is Poured

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 11:58:22 GMT

Why abiding always produces what striving cannot

I have spent a significant portion of my life trying to force things to grow. If you have been in ministry or leadership for any length of time, you likely know exactly what I mean. We often treat our spiritual lives like a high-pressure corporate sales floor rather than a garden. We scream at the soil, we demand the branches produce faster, and we measure our worth by the size of the harvest. However, the reality of the New Covenant is far more beautiful and far less stressful. The simple truth is that fruit grows where grace is poured .

When we understand that God is not a demanding taskmaster but a loving Vinedresser, everything changes. We stop trying to manufacture "works" and start allowing the Spirit to produce "fruit." Specifically, this happens when we immerse ourselves in the hesed: the steadfast, unfailing love: of God. This grace isn't just a one-time ticket to heaven; it is the very atmosphere where life flourishes.

The Environment of Hesed

In Hebrew, the word hesed describes a love that is loyal, committed, and entirely independent of the recipient’s performance. It is the kind of mercy that follows us every single day. Many people live with the nagging fear that God is just waiting for them to trip up. Meanwhile, the Bible tells us that His goodness and mercy are actually pursuing us.

When you realize that you are being chased by love rather than judgment, your heart begins to soften. This softening is the first step toward growth. You see, you cannot grow in a climate of fear. Fear produces "works": the frantic, tired efforts of a person trying to keep God happy. But grace produces "fruit": the natural, effortless overflow of a life that knows it is deeply loved.

Psalm 23:6 “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.”

This mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention. When you finally stop running and let His mercy catch you, you find the rest you’ve been looking for. This is where the big leap of faith happens: believing that God loves you exactly as you are, right in the middle of your mess.

Why Self-Effort Fails

Most of us were raised on a diet of performance-based religion. We were taught that if we did the right things, God would bless us, and if we did the wrong things, He would withdraw. Therefore, we spent years trying to "fix" ourselves before coming to Him. But I’ve learned, over 50 years of ministry, that rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.

If a branch spends all its energy trying to "be a good branch," it will never have the resources to produce a single grape. Its only job is to stay connected to the vine. Consequently, when we focus on our performance, we actually cut ourselves off from the very source of life that produces the fruit we desire.

John 15:5 “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

Jesus didn't say, "Without me, you can do some things, but it’ll be harder." He said we can do nothing. This is the ultimate relief. If we can do nothing on our own, then the pressure is entirely off. Our growth is His responsibility. Our only "work" is to believe and abide in His love.

Loved People Become Loving People

You might wonder how we become more patient, more kind, or more faithful. Does it happen by making a list of rules? No. It happens because fruit grows where grace is poured . When you are saturated in the grace of Christ, you begin to look like Him. It is a biological certainty in the spiritual realm: loved people become loving people.

Consider the fruit of the Spirit. Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance. None of these are things you can "do." You can't force yourself to have peace during a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis or a global pandemic: I know this from personal experience. But when you are resting in the finished work of Jesus, that peace grows naturally, even in the darkest valleys.

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

Under the law, you are always worried about whether you’ve done enough. Under grace, you are focused on the fact that Christ is enough. When your focus shifts from your fruit to His grace, the fruit actually starts appearing. It is a beautiful paradox.

The Vinedresser’s Hand

Sometimes, the pouring of grace looks like pruning. For example, God might remove certain distractions or dependencies from our lives. In the moment, pruning feels like a loss. It can feel like God is taking something away because He is angry. However, we must view the Vinedresser through the lens of His goodness.

He isn't pruning you to punish you; He is pruning you because He sees the potential for more fruit. He knows that certain "suckers": those little shoots that drain energy but produce nothing: are keeping you from the life He has for you. He prunes with a hand of mercy, never a hand of malice. He is always for you, never against you.

Romans 8:31 “What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?”

Whether you are in a season of planting, growing, or pruning, remember that the environment is still one of absolute grace. You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held.

Living From Being Loved

I want to challenge the way you view your daily walk with God. Stop trying to climb a ladder to get to Him. Instead, realize that He came down the ladder to get to you. The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from a place of being loved first.

When I was serving as a missionary in Peru, working in the mountains and the cities, I often felt the weight of the work. I thought the ministry's growth depended on my grit and consistency. But looking back, I see that the most lasting fruit came from the moments when I was simply resting in His presence, letting His grace wash over me.

God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency. He is looking at you through the finished work of His Son. When you stand in that grace, you are standing in the most fertile soil in the universe.

Resting in the Harvest

As we walk this path together, let's commit to being "grace-pourers." Let’s pour grace on our own souls and on the people around us. If you want your marriage to flourish, pour grace on it. If you want your children to grow in faith, pour grace on them. If you want your ministry to be vibrant, make sure the foundation is mercy, not mandate.

Fruit grows where grace is poured because grace is the only thing that can reach the heart. Laws can change behavior, but only grace can change a person. You can rest today, knowing that the God who started this good work in you is the one who will bring it to completion.

Philippians 1:6 “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:”

You don’t have to worry about the harvest. You just have to stay in the sun of His love and the water of His Word. The fruit will come. It is inevitable when grace is the atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I am living by grace or by works?
If your spiritual life feels like a heavy burden and you are constantly worried about God's "grade" for you, you are likely operating under a performance mindset. Living by grace feels like rest; it is the realization that Jesus has already done the heavy lifting, and you are simply responding to His love.

Does focusing on grace mean I don't have to obey God?
Actually, grace is the only thing that produces true obedience. When you realize how much you are loved, you naturally want to please the Father: not to earn His love, but because you already have it. Obedience becomes an act of worship rather than a chore.

What if I don't see any "fruit" in my life right now?
Growth often happens underground before it is visible on the surface. Trust the Vinedresser's timing and keep yourself rooted in the truth of the Gospel. You are not being graded on the speed of your growth; you are being held in the hand of a loving Father who is faithful to His promises.

Ready for more encouragement?

Listen to the latest episode of the Followed By Mercy Podcast .
Subscribe to our YouTube channel @waustingardner for weekly teaching.
Learn more about our mission at Alignment Ministries .
Read the foundational article: The Big Leap of Faith .

#Grace #Mercy #AustinGardner #FaithBasedDevelopment #FollowedByMercy

Resting in the Vine

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 11:49:44 GMT

Why You Don't Have to 'Produce' the Fruit

Have you ever felt like you were failing at your own faith? Many of us walk through life carrying an invisible checklist, trying to prove to God and to everyone else that we are "producing" enough for the Kingdom. We look at the fruit of the Spirit and see a list of moral requirements that we need to manufacture through sheer willpower. However, the harder we try to produce love, joy, or peace on our own, the more exhausted and frustrated we become.

The truth is that resting in the vine is the only way to see true transformation. We often get the order of the Christian life completely backward. We think we have to change to be loved by God, but the reality is that God’s love changes us. Specifically, the fruit in our lives is not something we "do"; it grows because of who we are in Christ.

If you are tired of striving, I want to invite you into a place of rest. You don't have to produce the fruit. You just have to stay connected to the Vine.

The Performance Trap and the Reality of Grace

For over 50 years, I have served in ministry, but for a long time, I lived in the trap of performance. I believed that if I worked hard enough, preached enough, and stayed busy enough, I would finally be the person God wanted me to be. I was a professional at "doing" things for God, yet I was often spiritually malnourished.

Everything changed when life went sideways. When I was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer and later battled a severe case of COVID, my ability to "produce" was completely stripped away. I couldn't preach. I couldn't lead meetings. Meanwhile, I was stuck in a hospital bed, forced to confront a God who loved me even when I had nothing to offer but my weakness.

It was in those dark moments that I realized the grace of God is not a reward for our hard work. It is the fuel for our very existence. I had to take the big leap of faith and believe that God loved me exactly as I was, even when I wasn't "producing" anything. Consequently, I learned that my identity wasn't found in my ministry, but in my union with Christ.

Understanding the Metaphor of the Vine

Jesus gave us a beautiful picture of how this works in the Gospel of John. He used the imagery of a vine and its branches to explain our relationship with Him. This isn't just a nice story; it is a fundamental shift in how we view our spiritual growth.

John 15:5 “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

Notice what Jesus says here. He is the Vine, and we are the branches. The branch does not have a factory inside it. It doesn't strain or stress to create a grape. Therefore, the branch's only job is to stay attached to the vine. As long as the connection is healthy, the life-giving sap of the vine flows through the branch, and fruit naturally appears.

If you are struggling to be more patient or more loving, the answer isn't to try harder to be patient. Instead, the answer is to abide more deeply in Jesus. When we try to produce fruit apart from Him, we are just tying plastic fruit to a dead branch. It might look okay from a distance, but it has no life and no sweetness.

Fruit vs. Works: There Is a Difference

In the religious world, we often confuse "works" with "fruit." They look similar, but they come from two completely different sources. Works come from human effort, fear, and a desire for control. Fruit comes from the Holy Spirit, rest, and a posture of surrender.

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

These qualities are called the "fruit of the Spirit," not the "works of the believer." This distinction is vital for your peace of mind. When you view these traits as a to-do list, you become a legalist. You start measuring your worth by your consistency. But as I often say, “God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency.”

The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear or performance. It was meant to be lived from a place of being loved first. When you know you are loved, you naturally begin to reflect the character of the One who loves you. Love produces love. Grace produces gratitude. Rest produces peace.

Why Resting in the Vine Is Hard for Us

Why do we find it so difficult to just rest? For many of us, our pride gets in the way. We want to be the hero of our own story. We want to be able to point to our growth and say, "Look what I did." However, the gospel removes all room for boasting. It tells us that apart from Him, we can do absolutely nothing.

During my battles with cancer, I had to face the reality that my strength was an illusion. I had to learn that “Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.” If you wait until you have all your fruit in order before you decide to rest in God's grace, you will never rest. You will spend your whole life chasing a version of yourself that doesn't exist.

Moreover, we are often afraid that if we stop striving, we will stop growing. We worry that grace is a license to be lazy. But the opposite is true. The more you realize how much you are loved, the more you will want to be close to the Father. That proximity is exactly what causes the fruit to grow. You don't have to worry about the results when you are focused on the Relationship.

How to Practice Abiding Every Day

So, how do we actually "abide"? It sounds like a mystical term, but it is actually very simple. To abide means to stay. It means to dwell. It means to make your home in the love of Christ. Here are a few ways to move from production to rest:

Acknowledge Your Dependence: Start your day by admitting you can't produce anything good on your own. Tell the Lord, "I am just a branch today. I need Your life to flow through me."
Focus on Identity, Not Behavior: Remind yourself that you are a child of God before you are a worker for God. Your value is settled because of what Jesus did, not what you are doing.
Receive Before You Give: You cannot give away love or joy if you haven't received it from the Source. Spend time letting God love you through His Word and prayer before you try to serve others.
Trust the Pruning Process: Sometimes God removes things from our lives so that we can bear more fruit. It hurts, but it is done by a loving Vinedresser who knows exactly what we need.

As a mentor and someone who has spent decades in faith-based development , I have seen many leaders burn out because they were trying to be the vine. They were trying to carry the weight of the entire vineyard on their shoulders. But you were never meant to carry that weight. You are just a branch, and that is a wonderful place to be.

You Are Not Being Graded

If you take nothing else away from this, please hear this: “You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held.” The Father is not looking at your life with a magnifying glass, searching for more fruit so He can decide whether or not to keep you. He has already chosen you. He has already grafted you into the Vine through the finished work of Jesus.

Whether you are a ministry leader feeling the pressure of expectations or an individual seeking personal healing, the invitation is the same. Come and rest. Stop trying to manufacture a version of yourself that satisfies the law. Instead, lose yourself in the grace of the One who has already satisfied the law for you.

When you settle into that rest, a funny thing happens. One day, you’ll look at your life and realize you are more patient than you used to be. You’ll notice that joy is bubbling up in places where there used to be bitterness. You won't even remember the moment you "produced" it, because you didn't. The Vine did it through you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don't see any fruit in my life right now?

Fruit doesn't grow overnight; it requires a season of growth and the right environment. If you feel "barren," don't focus on the lack of fruit: focus on the health of your connection to Jesus. Check if you are trying to live by your own strength or if you are truly resting in His grace.

Does "resting" mean I should stop serving in ministry?

Resting is a posture of the heart, not necessarily an absence of activity. You can be very busy in ministry while your heart is completely at rest in Christ. The goal is to move from "working for God" to "working with God," letting His power flow through your efforts.

How do I stop being so legalistic about my spiritual growth?

Legalism usually starts with fear: fear of losing God's favor or fear of being "not enough." Remind yourself daily that your union with Christ is a finished work. As you grow in the assurance of His unconditional love, the need to perform will naturally fade away.

If you want to dive deeper into this journey of grace, I encourage you to check out my latest podcast episodes or join us at Alignment Ministries. We are here to help you move from the "pit to the palace" by discovering the goodness of God in every season of life.

#Grace #Faith #AustinGardner #Rest #FollowedByMercy

Primary Hub Resource: The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are

Connect Further:

Followed by Mercy Podcast: Listen Here
YouTube: @waustingardner
Alignment Ministries: M entorship and Resources
Read more on the Blog: Austin Gardner Blog

The Scorecard is Gone

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 11:39:44 GMT

Finding the True Fruit of the Spirit

Have you ever felt like you were carrying a spiritual clipboard? I spent many years of my life convinced that my relationship with God was based on a performance review. I would wake up, check my "Fruit of the Spirit" list, and see how I was doing. Was I patient enough at the grocery store? Did I have enough joy during the staff meeting? If I checked enough boxes, I felt like God was happy with me. If I failed, I felt like I was failing Him.

Consequently, many of us treat the Christian life as a high-stakes exam with grading that never ends. We look at the list in Galatians and see a set of goals to achieve rather than a life to receive. Specifically, we turn the beauty of the Holy Spirit's work into a heavy scorecard. However, I want to tell you today that the scorecard is gone. Jesus didn’t come to give you a better list of rules; He came to give you His very life.

The Exhaustion of the Self-Effort Scorecard

For a long time, I operated under the assumption that if I worked hard enough, I could manufacture spiritual fruit. I thought that if I studied more, prayed longer, and tried harder, I could produce love, joy, and peace. Meanwhile, I was actually operating in what the Bible calls the "works of the flesh." We often think of those "works" only as "bad sins," but they are essentially any effort driven by fear and self-will.

Galatians 5:19 “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness...”

While those are the outward manifestations, the root is always the same: striving to meet a standard in our own strength. When we try to "do" the fruit of the Spirit, we are just dressing up the flesh in religious clothes. This performance-based living leads to inevitable burnout. Therefore, if you feel exhausted by your faith, it might be because you are trying to produce what only God can provide.

Where the Scorecard Was Finally Destroyed

Life has a way of stripping away our ability to perform. For me, that moment came when I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and later fought for my life against COVID. There were days when I couldn't even hold a Bible, let alone "perform" for God. During that season, I was also "canceled" by people I had served for decades. The external scorecard I had built my identity on was shredded.

In that darkness, I realized that God’s love was not measuring my worth by my consistency. Specifically, I learned that peace doesn't come from being a "good Christian"; it comes from being a loved child. My wife, Betty, stayed by my side through every surgery and every tear. We have been married since August 18, 1973, and her love during my weakest moments was a picture of God’s grace. She didn’t need me to be a "keynote speaker" or a "missionary hero." She just wanted me.

Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are available in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”

When the tumors were at their worst, I found that those tumors were not bigger than God’s grace. I had no energy to "work" for joy, yet joy found me because I was resting in the finished work of Christ. The scorecard had to die so that the life of Jesus could truly live in me.

Abiding vs. Striving: The Secret of the Vine

We must understand that an apple tree does not grunt and groan to produce an apple. It simply stays connected to the source. Similarly, the Fruit of the Spirit is the natural outflow of abiding, not the reward for striving. When we focus on the fruit, we actually miss the point. We should be focusing on the Vine.

John 15:5 “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

If you are struggling with patience, the answer isn't "try harder to be patient." The answer is to take The Big Leap of Faith and believe that God loves you exactly as you are right now. When you feel secure in His love, patience naturally grows. Loved people become loving people. It is a biological spiritual reality.

Identity Precedes Behavior

The religious world tells you that if you change your behavior, you will find your identity. God tells you that because you have a new identity in Christ, your behavior will change. You are not a sinner trying to become a saint through good fruit. Instead, you are a saint: a beloved child of God, who is learning to let the Holy Spirit lead.

“God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency.” This truth changed everything for me. When I stopped looking at my performance, I began to look at His presence. I found that the Fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance, was already there, waiting to be released through rest.

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

Notice that last phrase: "against such there is no law." The scorecard is gone because the law has been fulfilled in Christ. You are no longer under the "pass/fail" system of the Old Covenant. You are living in the "finished" reality of the New Covenant.

Resting Into Transformation

So, how do we practically move away from the scorecard? First, we must recognize when we are slipping back into "flesh-mode." Whenever you feel a sense of "I have to" or "I must earn," that is the flesh talking. Meanwhile, the Spirit always speaks in the language of "You are" and "I have already done."

Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first. Specifically, you must learn to sit in the Father’s lap before you try to work in the Father’s field. My journey from the pit to the palace of grace was paved with the realization that I am not behind, I am not being graded, and I am being held.

If you have been feeling the weight of religious performance, I want you to drop the clipboard today. The Fruit of the Spirit is not a list of things you have to do; it is a description of the Person who lives inside you. Let Him be patient through you. Let Him be kind through you. Your only "job" is to believe you are loved.

Your Assurance in the Finished Work

God’s mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope. You don’t have to worry about whether you are "spiritual enough" to deserve His favor. His favor was bought by Jesus and given to you as a gift. Consequently, you can walk out of this day with a light heart and a clear conscience.

The scorecard is gone. The Spirit is here. You can finally rest.

FAQ: Understanding the Fruit of the Spirit

How can I tell the difference between my own effort and the Fruit of the Spirit?
Self-effort always leaves you feeling tired, prideful when you succeed, or crushed when you fail. The Fruit of the Spirit, however, feels like a natural overflow, leaving you with a sense of peace and gratitude toward God rather than toward yourself.

Does resting in grace mean I don't have to worry about how I live?
Actually, resting in grace is the only way to truly live a transformed life. When you know you are unconditionally loved, you naturally want to live in a way that honors that love, which produces far more "fruit" than fear-based rules ever could.

What should I do when I feel like I'm lacking a specific fruit, like joy or patience?
Instead of trying to "work up" joy or patience, go back to the Vine. Remind yourself of your union with Christ and focus on His love for you; as you abide in that relationship, the fruit you need will begin to manifest naturally.

Connect with Austin Gardner:

Listen to the Followed By Mercy podcast: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com
Subscribe on YouTube : @waustingardner
Learn about Alignment Ministries : https://www.alignmentministries.com
Read the full Hub post here: https://waustingardner.com/the-big-leap-of-faith-believing-god-loves-you-exactly-as-you-are

#Grace #FaithBasedDevelopment #FruitOfTheSpirit #FinishedWork #AustinGardner

Leading Through the Fire

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 13:42:49 GMT

The Strength of a Vulnerable Leader

Ministry is often portrayed as a mountaintop experience, yet most of us spend our days in the trenches. For over 50 years, I have walked the halls of churches and the dusty streets of mission fields, and I have learned one hard truth. The most effective leaders are not the ones who have it all together, but those who are willing to lead through the fire. Specifically, a vulnerable leader possesses a strength that a "perfect" leader can never touch.

When we experience personal pain or face the consequences of past mistakes, our first instinct is often to hide. We build walls because we believe that our influence depends on our perceived perfection. However, the Gospel tells a different story. It tells us that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness. If you are a pastor, a missionary, or a mentor, you don't need to be a bulletproof superhero. Instead, you need to be a companion who knows the way through the valley.

The Myth of the Bulletproof Leader

Many of us grew up in a religious culture that demanded performance. We were taught that a leader must always be the strongest person in the room. Consequently, we learned to mask our struggles, suppress our doubts, and ignore our exhaustion. We thought that showing a crack in the armor would disqualify us from service.

But let me tell you something I’ve learned from decades of mentoring: people aren't looking for a perfect leader. They are looking for a leader who is honest. When you try to act like you have no problems, you actually become less relatable to the people you're trying to reach. Meanwhile, your soul begins to wither under the weight of the performance.

2 Corinthians 12:9 “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

God isn't looking for your ability; He is looking for your availability. He wants you to rest in the finished work of Jesus. For example, when I faced Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and a brutal battle with COVID , I couldn't "perform" my way out of it. I had to simply be held by the Father. That vulnerability didn't weaken my ministry; it gave it a new depth.

From Fixer to Companion: Lessons from the Canfield Family

One of the most profound shifts a vulnerable leader can make is moving from being a "fixer" to being a "companion." As leaders, we hate seeing people in pain. Therefore, our natural reaction is to jump in with three points of advice and a quick prayer to "fix" the situation.

I think of the Canfield family and their journey with Pompe disease. When you see a family walking through a medical crisis that has no easy earthly solution, your "fixer" instincts will fail you. You cannot fix Pompe disease with a clever sermon. However, you can walk beside them. You can be a friend who isn't afraid of the silence or the tears.

Austin Gardner has always believed that mentorship is about relationship, not just information.

Specifically, a companion doesn't try to explain away the fire; they simply stay in the fire with you. This is how Jesus leads us. He didn't just give us a set of rules from heaven; He came down, took on flesh, and suffered alongside us.

The Power of Sharing Your Scars

Your past mistakes and your current pains are not obstacles to your leadership. In fact, they are often your greatest tools for connection. When I talk about my own failures and the mercy I have found, I see doors that were previously locked open.

Psalm 34:18 “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”

If God is near to the brokenhearted, then a leader who is honest about their own brokenness will find themselves closer to the heart of God: and the hearts of their people. This is the core of The Big Leap of Faith . It is the radical belief that God loves you exactly as you are, not as you think you should be. Consequently, when you believe this for yourself, you can finally offer that same grace to others.

Leading Through the Fire with Grace

How do we actually lead when we are the ones hurting? First, we must stop viewing our pain as a distraction from our work. Instead, view it as part of your training. Every trial is an opportunity to experience the "Followed by Mercy" reality.

I often say that rest doesn't come after you fix yourself; rest comes first . You are not being graded on how well you handle the fire. You are being held by the One who walked through the fire for you. Therefore, you can afford to be vulnerable. You can admit to your team when you are struggling. You can tell your mentees, "I don't have the answer for this, but I know the One who does."

Austin Gardner’s experience in missionary work taught him that the world is messy. People are messy. Ministry is messy. But the beauty of the New Covenant is that mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions; it is running toward you with intention.

Finding Strength in the Secret Place

A vulnerable leader must have a robust life of prayer and gratitude. This isn't about religious performance. On the contrary, it is about staying connected to the Source of life. When the fire gets hot, the discipline of gratitude reminds us that God is still good.

Philippians 4:6-7 “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Notice that the peace comes after the honest request and the thanksgiving. We don't have to pretend we aren't anxious. We simply bring the anxiety to the Father. Meanwhile, He guards our hearts. This is the "One-Day Faith" we talk about: trusting God for the strength needed for the next twenty-four hours.

Your Weakness is an Invitation

If you feel disqualified because of your past or overwhelmed by your present, take heart. You are in the perfect position for God to use you. A vulnerable leader is a magnet for those seeking hope. People are tired of polished programs; they want to see a life touched by the grace of God .

Remember, the Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear or performance. It was meant to be lived from a place of being loved first. Consequently, your leadership should flow from that same place of rest. You can read more about this journey in my book, Rising Above the Hurt .

Austin Gardner has spent years helping leaders find their footing again after the fire has scorched them. Whether you are dealing with a personal health crisis, a family struggle like the Canfields, or the weight of ministry expectations, know that you are not alone. God’s mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope.

Call to Action: Dive Deeper into Vulnerable Leadership

If this message resonated with you, I want to invite you to watch the full 5-part video series that explores these themes in depth. These videos were created to help you navigate the hardest parts of leadership with grace and resilience.

The Weight of a Name: https://youtu.be/HknKiv-iFmw
Grace in the Pit: https://youtu.be/Gthel5cLi08
From Fixer to Friend: https://youtu.be/NXL5_3ZpzJA
One-Day Faith: https://youtu.be/fE9A1vE9QX4
The Discipline of Gratitude: https://youtu.be/4df-6xPYK3M

For more resources on leadership and grace, visit Alignment Ministries or check out the Followed by Mercy newsletter.

FAQ: Leading with Vulnerability

How can I be vulnerable without losing my authority as a leader?

Vulnerability actually increases your true authority because it builds trust and authenticity. When you are honest about your journey, people respect your courage and are more likely to follow your lead. Real authority comes from your character and your connection to Christ, not from a mask of perfection.

What if my past mistakes are too "messy" to share?

You don't have to share every detail with everyone, but you should have a circle where you can be fully known. Sharing the lessons learned from your "mess" can become a lifeline for someone else in a similar struggle. Remember, God’s mercy covers the mess, and His grace is bigger than any mistake you've ever made.

How do I stop being a "fixer" and start being a "companion"?

Start by listening more than you speak. Instead of offering immediate solutions, try saying, "I'm so sorry you're going through this, and I'm here to walk with you." Focusing on presence rather than performance allows the Holy Spirit to do the deep work that only He can do.

#AustinGardner #VulnerableLeadership #MinistryGrace #FaithInTheFire #Mentorship

The 50-Year Mistake I Finally Fixed

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:28:56 GMT

The freedom I found when I stopped trying to be enough

For over five decades, I thought I knew exactly how the Christian life worked. Specifically, I believed that if I worked hard enough, sacrificed enough, and stayed consistent enough, then God would be pleased with me. I spent fifty years on a treadmill of religious performance, running as fast as I could but never actually arriving at a place of peace. I was a missionary, a pastor, and a mentor, yet I was exhausted.

However, everything changed when my body finally gave out. In a short span of time, I faced Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and a brutal battle with COVID-19. Suddenly, I couldn't "do" anything for God anymore. I couldn't preach, I couldn't lead, and I couldn't even stand up on some days. In that brokenness, I discovered that my 50-year mistake was trying to power my life through effort instead of resting in the finished work of Jesus.

Phase 1: The Breaking of the Performance Need

When you are staring at a Stage 4 diagnosis, the "treadmill of performance" stops being an option. Consequently, I had to face the reality of who I was without my titles and my works. For years, I had been fueled by a subtle fear that if I slowed down, God’s favor might slow down too. Meanwhile, the cancer was forcing me into a place where I had to be still.

I realized during those long nights in the hospital that I had been trying to earn what God had already given me. Therefore, the sickness wasn't a punishment; it was a pivot point. It broke the need to perform because I simply lacked the strength to do it. You can see more of that journey in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9Pzi9hWCfc .

Specifically, I learned that “The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.” This realization changed the way I viewed every single morning.

Phase 2: The Core Concept (The Airplane Principle)

To understand this shift, you have to understand what I call the Airplane Principle. Imagine you are flying from Atlanta to Lima, Peru. Once you step onto that plane, you are "in" the airplane. Consequently, you don't have to run up and down the aisle to help the plane move faster. You don't have to flap your arms to keep it in the air.

Religion is constantly telling you to "Do." It tells you to flap harder, run faster, and try more. In contrast, Grace says, "Done." When we are "in Christ," His victory becomes our victory.

Ephesians 1:3 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:"

Because I am in Christ, I already have the blessings. I don't work for them; I live from them. For fifty years, I was trying to push the airplane. Now, I am finally sitting in the seat and letting the "Finished Work" carry me. This is the difference between the Law and the New Covenant. The Law demands, but Grace supplies.

Phase 3: The Identity Switch (Identity Termination)

The biggest hurdle for most of us is our old identity. We think we are just "sinners saved by grace" who are still struggling to be good enough. Nevertheless, the Bible teaches something much more radical: Identity Termination. The old Austin Gardner was crucified with Christ. He is gone. He was canceled by the cross, and a new man was raised in his place.

Galatians 2:20 "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

Stop trying to fix your old self. That version of you is dead. Instead, start being who God says you already are. Furthermore, you must realize that your worth is not a sliding scale based on your morning devotions. As I often say: “God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency.”

If you find yourself struggling to believe this, you aren't alone. It takes a big leap of faith to believe that God loves you exactly as you are, without any of the religious window dressing.

Phase 4: Practical Leadership and the Covenant

This shift in identity changes how I lead. For years, I felt the heavy weight of results. If a church didn't grow or a protégé failed, I felt it reflected my standing with God. However, when you lead from the "Victory of the Covenant," the weight is gone.

Specifically, I now lead with authority but without the pressure. I know that the results belong to Him. My job is simply to stay in the rest of grace. Consequently, I can be honest about my failures and my pain without fearing that I’ve lost my "leadership points."

When people tried to have me canceled or when injustice came my way, I didn't have to fight for my reputation. Why? Because my reputation is hidden in Christ. When you know you are "Followed by Mercy," you don't have to look over your shoulder in fear of what people say. You are leading from a place of being fully known and fully loved.

Psalm 23:6 "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever."

Phase 5: Grace at Home with Betty

Perhaps the most beautiful place where I’ve fixed this 50-year mistake is in my marriage. Betty and I have been married for over 52 years (since August 18, 1973). For a long time, even in marriage, there can be a "scorecard." You did this for me, so I’ll do this for you.

However, grace removes the scorecard. In our home now, we focus on the "Rest of Grace." We don't pressure each other to perform. Specifically, we have learned that loved people become loving people. When I rest in God’s love, I am much easier for Betty to live with.

Moreover, we’ve realized that “Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.” We don't wait until our relationship is perfect to enjoy peace; we start with peace, and that allows us to work through the imperfections of life with kindness.

Conclusion: A Pastoral Call to Rest

Friend, if you are tired of the treadmill, it is time to get off. You don't have to wait for a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis to realize that Jesus is enough. You might feel like you are behind or that you’ve wasted years trying to earn God’s favor. But remember: You are not being graded. You are being held.

The "Followed by Mercy" life is available to you right now. Consequently, you can stop striving and start abiding. You are safe in His love. You are secure in His finished work. The mistake of performance can be fixed the moment you decide to trust His grace more than your effort.

Land in this assurance today: God is for you. Christ is enough. You can finally rest.

FAQ: Understanding the Rest of Grace

What does it mean to "lead from victory" instead of "for victory"?
Leading for victory means you are working hard to achieve a result so you can feel successful or accepted. Leading from victory means you recognize that Christ has already won the ultimate battle, so you work from a place of security and rest, regardless of the immediate outcome.

How do I stop the "performance" mindset when I've lived that way for years?
The first step is Identity Termination, realizing that your old, performance-driven self was crucified with Christ. You must consciously remind yourself that your standing with God is based on Jesus’ consistency, not yours, and that He is not disappointed in your struggle.

Can grace really work in a marriage that feels stuck in "scorekeeping"?
Yes, because grace changes the motivation from "earning" to "responding." When both partners begin to see how much they are unconditionally loved by God, the need to demand performance from each other begins to melt away, replaced by mutual mercy.

#AustinGardner #FollowedByMercy #GraceCentered #IdentityInChrist #FaithBasedDevelopment

What to Do When Everything Goes Wrong: The Ziklag Principle

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:16:03 GMT

Finding strength in God when your world is in ashes

There are moments in life when it feels like the entire world is burning down around you. Not one thing, everything. Your career. Your relationships. Your health. Your reputation. The people you thought had your back are now questioning whether they can trust you at all.

That's exactly where David found himself at a place called Ziklag.

When Everything Falls Apart at Once

1 Samuel 30:6 And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.

Let me paint the picture for you. David had been on the run from King Saul for years. He finally found refuge with the Philistines, Israel's enemies. He was living in a town called Ziklag. But when David and his men returned from a military campaign, they found Ziklag burned to the ground. The Amalekites had raided the city, taken every woman and child captive, and torched everything.

David's two wives were gone. Every single man under his command had lost their families. And instead of rallying around their leader, David's own loyal men, the guys who had been with him through everything, started talking about stoning him to death.

David had no home. No family. No friends. No stuff. And the only people who knew him best wanted him dead.

If that's not a "everything goes wrong" moment, I don't know what is.

The One Thing David Did Right

Here's the one sentence that changes everything:

"But David encouraged himself in the LORD his God."

David didn't call a committee meeting. He didn't try to defend himself or argue his case. He didn't spiral into self-pity or rage at God for letting this happen.

He went off alone and had a conversation with God.

That's the Ziklag Principle: When everything collapses, you don't look around for someone to fix you; you look up and remind yourself who God is.

David poured out his heart. He complained. He cried. He told God exactly how bad things were. And somewhere in the middle of that raw, honest prayer, something shifted inside him. Not because his circumstances changed, they were still a disaster. But because God met him in the mess .

The peace David experienced wasn't based on logic or circumstances. It was based on the unchanging character of God.

How to Encourage Yourself in the Lord (Practically Speaking)

You might be thinking, "Okay, that's great for David. But how do I actually do that?"

Let me walk you through the same process David went through, and the same process the Apostle Paul would later describe in the New Testament.

Step 1: Take Your Complaint Directly to God

Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Don't sanitize your prayers. Don't pretend you're fine when you're not. God already knows. Tell Him exactly what's going wrong. Lay out your fears, your frustrations, your anger, your grief. All of it.

David wasn't afraid to complain to God. The Psalms are full of it. And God didn't strike him down for being honest. In fact, that honesty became the doorway to peace.

When you bring your requests to God, not in a demanding way, but in a dependent way, you are acknowledging that He is the only one who can truly help you. And that acknowledgment, that surrender, opens the door for His peace to flood your soul.

Step 2: Believe That God Hears You

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

After you've poured out your heart, you have to make a choice: Do I believe God hears me? Do I believe He cares? Do I believe He will answer?

This is where faith comes in. Not the "name it and claim it" kind of faith. The kind of faith that says, "I don't see the answer yet, but I know God is good. I know He is faithful. I know He has not abandoned me."

David believed God would do something. He didn't know what yet. But he knew God was still God.

Step 3: Control Your Thoughts

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Once you've prayed and believed, you have to guard your mind. Because after you get up from prayer, the same circumstances are still staring you in the face. The voices of doubt will still be loud.

That's when you have to intentionally redirect your thoughts back to the truth. Not positive thinking. Not denial. Biblical truth.

God is faithful. God is with me. God has not forgotten me. God's plans for me are good. God's mercy follows me.

You don't control your circumstances, but you can control what you think about them. And what you think about them will determine whether you stand or fall.

What Happened Next

David got up from that prayer time and called for the priest. He asked God a very simple question: "Should I pursue the raiders?"

And God said yes.

David and his men went after the Amalekites and recovered everything: every wife, every child, every piece of plunder. Nothing was lost. In fact, they came back with more than they had before.

But here's the key: The victory didn't come because David figured out the perfect strategy. It came about because David first encouraged himself in the Lord and then acted in obedience.

Ziklag wasn't the end of David's story. It was the turning point. The burning of that city severed his ties to the Philistines and set him on the path to becoming king of Israel. What looked like total devastation became the foundation of his kingdom.

God doesn't waste your pain. He redeems it.

Your Ziklag Moment

Maybe you're in your own Ziklag moment right now. Everything feels like it's on fire. The people you thought would stand by you are gone. The plans you had are in ashes. And you're wondering if God even sees you.

He does.

And the same principle that worked for David will work for you: Encourage yourself in the Lord.

Go to Him. Pour it all out. Believe He hears you. Thank Him in advance for what He's going to do. Control your thoughts. Get up. Ask Him what to do next. And then do it.

God is not done with you. This is not the end of your story. This is the chapter where you learn that God loves you exactly as you are : even when everything is falling apart.

The Ziklag Principle isn't just about surviving a crisis. It's about discovering that God is more faithful than your circumstances are painful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to "encourage yourself in the Lord"?

It means going directly to God in prayer, reminding yourself of His character and His promises, and choosing to believe Him even when your circumstances scream otherwise. It's not denial: it's faith.

How do I pray when I'm too hurt or angry to even form words?

Start with honesty. Tell God exactly how you feel, even if it's messy or raw. He already knows, and He's not afraid of your emotions. The Psalms are full of brutally honest prayers, and God honored every one of them.

What if I encourage myself in the Lord and nothing changes?

David's circumstances didn't change the moment he prayed either. But his heart did. And that change in his heart positioned him to hear God's direction and take the next step. Sometimes the breakthrough comes in stages. Trust the process, and keep walking with Him.

W. Austin Gardner has been a missionary, pastor, and mentor for over 50 years. You can explore more of his writing at waustingardner.com and listen to his podcast, Followed by Mercy .

The Fruit of the Spirit

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 12:37:26 GMT

It’s Not a Checklist, It’s an Overflow

For years, I looked at Galatians 5:22-23 as if it were a spiritual grocery list. I would wake up in the morning, look in the mirror, and think, "Okay, Austin, today you need to make sure you have plenty of patience, a good dose of kindness, and definitely some more self-control." It felt like a performance. If I made it to 5:00 PM without losing my temper, I figured I was getting an ‘A’ for the day. If I snapped at someone, I felt like I had failed the test.

However, the more I’ve walked with the Lord, through the highs of ministry in Peru and the lows of battling Stage 4 cancer, the more I’ve realized that I had it all backward. We often treat the Fruit of the Spirit like a checklist of behaviors we have to manufacture. We think that if we try hard enough, we can squeeze out some joy or force ourselves to be peaceful. But that’s not how fruit works.

Fruit is never the result of a struggle. It is the natural, effortless overflow of a healthy connection to the source of life. Specifically, it is the life of Jesus Christ manifesting through you because you are already joined to Him.

The Secret of the Vine

To understand the Fruit of the Spirit, we have to look at what Jesus said about the vine and the branches. He didn't tell the branches to work harder to produce grapes. He told them to stay connected.

John 15:5 "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."

Think about an apple tree for a moment. You never walk past an orchard and hear the trees groaning, grunting, or straining to grow apples. The tree doesn't wake up worried about its performance. Instead, the tree simply stands in the sun, sinks its roots into the soil, and draws up the nutrients it needs. Because the tree is healthy and connected to its source, the apples just happen.

In the same way, you don't "do" the Fruit of the Spirit. You don't "achieve" peace or "accomplish" long-suffering. These qualities are the byproduct of your union with Christ. When you realize that you are already in the Vine, the fruit starts to show up on your branches. This shift from performance to presence changes everything. It moves us from a place of "trying" to a place of "abiding." If you're struggling to find that rest, I encourage you to read more about The Big Leap of Faith and how believing God loves you as you are is the starting point for everything.

You Are the The Inner Shrine

One of the most beautiful truths in the New Testament is how God describes your body. Paul tells us that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. But the word he uses for "temple" is very specific. In Greek, the word is naos.

In a traditional temple, there was the outer court and then the naos, the inner shrine, the Holy of Holies, where the very presence of God dwelt. Paul isn't just saying you are a religious building; he is saying you are the inner sanctuary.

1 Corinthians 6:19 "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?"

Because you are the naos, the Holy Spirit isn't standing outside of you giving you instructions on how to behave. He is living inside the deepest part of who you are. The Fruit of the Spirit is His fruit, not yours. He is the one producing it. Our job isn't to create the fruit; it’s to stop blocking the overflow.

The Space for Life

You might wonder, "If the Spirit is in me, why don't I see this fruit all the time?" Often, it’s because we are still carrying the weight of our old identity. We carry the heavy luggage of guilt, shame, and the need to prove ourselves.

This is where the word aphiemi comes in. It is the Greek word often translated as "forgiveness," but it literally means "to send away" or "to let go." When Jesus dealt with our sin on the cross, He didn't just cover it up; He sent it away. He canceled the debt.

When the weight of sin and the pressure of religious performance are "sent away," it makes room for the life of the Spirit to flow freely. You can't experience the overflow of joy if you are still trying to carry the burden of your own righteousness. Grace means the work is finished. The debt is aphiemi, sent away, so that the life of the Vine can fill the branch.

A Present Reality, Not a Future Goal

Religion always puts the "good stuff" in the future. It says, "If you pray more, you’ll eventually be peaceful," or "If you study more, you’ll finally have joy." It turns the Fruit of the Spirit into a reward for good behavior.

But in the economy of grace, the Fruit of the Spirit is a present reality. It is who you are right now because of who is in you. You don't have to wait until you are "more spiritual" to experience the peace of God. Peace is a Person, and that Person lives in your naos today.

Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

Notice that it says "the fruit is," not "the fruit will be if you work hard." Consequently, we don't have to strive for these things. We simply acknowledge them. When I was going through the darkest days of my health journey, I didn't have the strength to "produce" joy. I was tired, I was in pain, and I was occasionally overwhelmed. Meanwhile, I found that as I rested in Christ, a peace that didn't make sense began to bubble up from within. It wasn't my peace; it was His.

You Are Not Being Graded

If there is one thing I want you to take away from this, it’s this: You are not being graded. You are being held.

The Christian life is not a classroom where God is standing over you with a red pen, waiting to circle your mistakes. It’s a relationship where the Father is holding you close. When you feel like you lack patience or kindness, the answer isn't to try harder. The answer is to fall deeper into the realization that you are loved.

Loved people naturally become loving people. Rested people naturally become peaceful people. Transformation is the result of being loved, not a requirement to be loved. This is the DNA of Grace , living from your identity, not for it.

Living in the Overflow

So, how do we practically live in this overflow? It starts by changing our focus. Instead of focusing on the fruit, focus on the Root.

Stop the Striving: When you catch yourself trying to "force" a spiritual quality, stop. Take a breath. Remind yourself, "I am a branch. The Vine is the source."
Acknowledge the Presence: Remember that you are the naos. God isn't far away. He is as close as your next breath.
Accept the Aphiemi: Let the weight of your failures be sent away. Don't let yesterday’s mistakes clog up today’s connection.

Your life was never meant to be a high-pressure performance. It was meant to be a beautiful, natural manifestation of the life of Jesus. As you walk through your day, remember that the Spirit is at work in you, producing exactly what you need for every moment.

You don't have to worry about the harvest. Just stay in the Vine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I still struggle with anger if the Fruit of the Spirit is in me?

Struggling with emotions doesn't mean the Spirit isn't present; it usually means you are still trying to handle life in your own strength. When we revert to "performance mode," we block the natural overflow of the Spirit's peace.

Is there a difference between "works" and "fruit"?

Yes, a massive difference. Works are what you do for God through effort and willpower, often leading to burnout. Fruit is what God does through you as you rest in Him, leading to life and joy.

How can I "abide" in Christ when I'm so busy?

Abiding isn't a physical activity; it's a mental and spiritual posture. It’s the constant awareness that you are joined to Him, whether you are washing dishes, leading a meeting, or resting at home.

#Grace #Faith #IdentityInChrist #AustinGardner #FollowedByMercy

Ready to dive deeper into living a life of rest?

Check out the latest episode of the Followed by Mercy podcast or explore more resources in our Resource Library .

The Performance Trap in Leadership (DNA of Grace)

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 14:15:29 GMT

When identity is unsettled, performance takes over

Leadership often feels like a treadmill that never stops. You push for the next goal, plan the next series, and try to manage everyone's expectations. However, many leaders eventually hit a wall where they realize that simply "trying harder" isn't producing the spiritual fruit they desire. This is because they have fallen into the performance trap. In our primary discussion over at the hub, we looked at why trying isn’t working , but today we need to specifically look at how this affects those of us in leadership.

When you lead from a place of performance, your ministry becomes a reflection of your own internal insecurity. Specifically, if you believe your standing with God is based on your latest success or failure, you will inevitably project that pressure onto your team and your family. Consequently, the ministry becomes about your identity rather than Christ’s.

The Hidden Weight of Performance-Based Leadership

Most leaders don't set out to be legalistic or performance-driven. In fact, many of us started out with a deep love for God and a desire to serve Him. But somewhere along the way, the metrics of success: numbers, growth, and reputation, started to define how we felt about ourselves. Therefore, our security became tied to our output.

If you are constantly striving to prove your worth through your work, you are operating out of a deficit. You are essentially trying to earn a love that has already been freely given. This performance trap creates a heavy atmosphere for those under your influence. When a leader is insecure, the team feels the need to perform to keep the leader happy. Meanwhile, the true mission of the Gospel, which is built on rest and finished work, is lost in the noise of "doing."

Galatians 2:20 “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

Austin Gardner has spent over 50 years in ministry, and if there is one thing he has learned through planting churches and mentoring hundreds of leaders, it is that you cannot lead people into a grace you aren't personally resting in. Specifically, during his battle with Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and COVID, the ability to "do" was taken away. He had to learn to simply "be" in Christ. That is the core of the DNA of Grace.

Leading from Identity Instead of Insecurity

The alternative to performance is leading from identity. This means your value is settled before you ever step into the pulpit or walk into a board meeting. You are a son or daughter of God first, and a leader second. Because your identity is rooted in your union with Christ, your failures don't define you, and your successes don't inflate you.

When you lead from identity, you stop using people to build your vision and start using your vision to build people. You no longer need the approval of your peers or your congregation because you already have the full approval of the Father. Specifically, you understand that the big leap of faith is actually believing that God loves you exactly as you are, not as you think you should be.

Consider the difference this makes in your daily decision-making. An insecure leader is threatened by others' success. However, a leader who is secure in Christ celebrates the growth of those around them. They don't need to be the smartest person in the room because their worth isn't tied to being right. Therefore, they create an environment where others can thrive without the fear of being judged for their mistakes.

How Your Insecurity Affects Your Team

Your team can sense when you are leading out of fear. Fear of failure, fear of looking bad, or fear of losing control will always manifest as micromanagement or a high-pressure culture. If you find yourself constantly frustrated that your team isn't "trying hard enough," it might be because you are viewing them through the lens of performance rather than grace.

Remember this truth from the Followed by Mercy collection:

“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

When you lead from a place of love, you invite your team into that same space. You begin to value the person over the project. Specifically, you allow for the "mess" of ministry because you know that mercy covers it. If you want to see your ministry transform, you must first allow the Gospel to transform your own leadership style. Stop trying to "fix" your team and start resting in your union with Christ.

Practical Steps to Break the Performance Trap

Breaking the cycle of performance-based leadership requires a deliberate shift in focus. It isn't about doing less; it’s about doing things from a different motivation. Here are a few ways to start:

Audit Your Motivations. Ask yourself honestly, "Am I doing this for God’s glory or to protect my reputation?" Consequently, let the Holy Spirit expose the areas where you are still striving.
Practice Vulnerability. Share your struggles and weaknesses with your team. Show them that your security is in Christ, not in your perfection.
Celebrate Growth, Not Just Results. Shift the focus from numbers to the spiritual development of the people you lead.
Prioritize Rest. If you can’t rest, you probably don’t believe the work is truly finished. Indeed, taking a Sabbath is one of the most authoritative statements a leader can make about the goodness of God.

Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace are we saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Austin Gardner often reminds leaders that grace isn't just for the day you got saved; it’s for the day you have to lead a difficult meeting or face a ministry setback. If you are struggling with the weight of leadership, perhaps it is time to stop trying and start trusting.

Leading as a Son, Not a Slave

A slave works to be accepted, but a son works because he is already accepted. This is the ultimate leadership shift. When you realize that you are already "seated in heavenly places" with Christ, the pressure to perform on earth loses its power. You can lead with boldness, take risks, and even fail, knowing that your Father’s love remains unchanged.

Specifically, as we continue this series on the DNA of Grace, we see that leadership is simply the overflow of our life in Christ. Therefore, let your leadership be a testimony to the rest that is found in the finished work of Jesus. If you are tired of the performance trap, come back to the center. You are loved, you are held, and you are enough in Him.

For more on this, check out the full breakdown at the identity hub , and let’s move forward together in the freedom of grace.

FAQ: Leadership and the DNA of Grace

How do I know if I am leading out of insecurity?

You can often tell by your reaction to failure, either in yourself or others. If a mistake feels like a personal indictment of your worth, or if you become overly controlling to prevent errors, you are likely leading out of insecurity rather than out of identity.

Can a leader still be high-achieving without falling into the performance trap?

Absolutely. The difference lies in the "why" behind the achievement. A grace-led leader pursues excellence as an act of worship and love, while a performance-driven leader pursues it to validate their own identity and avoid the shame of being "average."

How does leading from grace improve my team's performance?

When people feel safe and loved, they are more creative, more loyal, and more willing to take healthy risks. Grace removes the paralyzing fear of failure, allowing a team to accomplish far more than a high-pressure, performance-based environment ever could.

#Grace #Leadership #AustinGardner #IdentityInChrist #AlignmentMinistries

The Harvest of Mercy

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:50:17 GMT

Understanding the Fruit of the Spirit

For over fifty years, I have walked the paths of ministry, from the crowded cities to the high Andean mountains of Peru. During those decades, I often viewed the Christian life as a series of mountains to climb and boxes to check. Specifically, I viewed the Fruit of the Spirit as a spiritual grocery list I needed to fulfill through sheer grit and determination. However, everything changed when I faced the dark valley of Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and a harrowing battle with COVID.

In those moments of weakness, when I couldn't even "try" to be patient or joyful, I discovered a profound truth. The harvest of the Spirit isn't something you produce; it is something that is produced in you because of the mercy that follows you. Therefore, if you feel exhausted by the "try harder" treadmill of religion, I want to invite you into a different way of living. We are going to look at how grace, not effort, brings forth the fruit God desires.

The Struggle of the Checklist

Many of us grew up thinking that the Fruit of the Spirit was a character assessment. Consequently, we spend our days grading ourselves. We ask, "Was I peaceful today? Was I long-suffering when that person cut me off in traffic?" If we fail, we feel the weight of God’s disappointment. Meanwhile, we forget that a branch doesn't strain to produce a grape; it simply stays connected to the vine.

During my years in Peru, I saw many young missionaries burn out because they were trying to manufacture love and joy in their own strength. They felt they were being "canceled" by their own expectations or by harsh criticism from others when they didn't measure up. I have felt that same pressure. But we must realize that the Christian life was never meant to be a performance.

“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

When we start from a place of being loved, the pressure evaporates. This is why understanding the big leap of faith is so vital. You have to believe God loves you exactly as you are before you can ever hope to see His fruit grow in your life.

Mercy as the Soil of the Fruit

The Bible speaks of sowing and reaping, but we often miss the context of mercy. In the Old Testament, the harvest was always intended as an act of mercy toward the poor and the stranger. Similarly, the Fruit of the Spirit grows best in the soil of received mercy. Specifically, when we realize how much we have been forgiven, we naturally become more forgiving.

Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

Notice that it says "fruit," singular. It is one harvest with many flavors. Furthermore, these qualities are the natural byproduct of the Holy Spirit's work in a heart that is at rest. After my diagnosis, when my body was failing, my wife Betty stood by me with a quiet, steady faith. We have been married for over 52 years, and I watched the fruit of "longsuffering" and "gentleness" manifest in her not because she was trying to be a "good wife," but because she was resting in the Lord’s goodness toward us.

In those hospital rooms, I learned that these tumors were not bigger than God’s grace. When you are at your lowest, you don't need a checklist; you need a Comforter.

Leading from a Place of Rest

If you are a ministry leader, this message is especially for you. We often lead from a place of "shoulds" and "musts." We feel that we must project the Fruit of the Spirit to our congregations and teams. However, leading from effort always leads to exhaustion. Instead, we are called to lead from rest.

> “Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.”

When I mentor younger men through Alignment Ministries, I tell them that their primary job is to stay in the love of God. For instance, if you are not convinced that God is for you, you will always try to use your "fruit" to earn His favor. But mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions; it is running toward you with intention.

Leaders who lead from rest are magnetic. They don't have to demand respect; the "gentleness" and "goodness" of Christ in them draw people in. Therefore, stop trying to grow the fruit and start focusing on the Vine.

The Finished Work and the Final Harvest

The beauty of the New Covenant is that the work is already finished. Jesus didn't just provide a way for us to be "better" people; He gave us His very life. Consequently, the Fruit of the Spirit is actually the life of Jesus being lived out through you. It is His love, His joy, and His peace.

You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held. Whether you are facing a medical crisis, a ministry struggle, or personal failure, God’s mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope.

Hosea 10:12 “Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the Lord, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.”

As we seek the Lord, He rains His righteousness on us. We don't have to manufacture the rain; we just have to stand in it. The harvest of mercy is guaranteed because it depends on His faithfulness, not ours.

Moving Forward in Assurance

As you go about your week, I want you to remember that you are loved beyond measure. The Fruit of the Spirit is a promise, not a threat. It is the beautiful result of a life that has stopped running and started resting in the Father’s arms.

If you’ve spent years feeling like you’re not "fruitful" enough, let that burden go today. God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency. He is looking at His Son, and if you are in Christ, He sees the perfect harvest already.

“Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention.”

Walk out into your day knowing that goodness and mercy are following you. Rest in that, and watch what God begins to grow.

Austin Gardner writes every day on https://waustingardner.com/blog/

Get into the series on DNA and your identity in Christ

FAQ: Understanding the Fruit of the Spirit

How can I grow the Fruit of the Spirit when I feel spiritually dry?

Growth doesn't come from your own effort, but from staying connected to Jesus, the Vine. Focus on resting in His finished work and acknowledging His unconditional love for you, even in your dryness.

Is there a difference between spiritual gifts and the Fruit of the Spirit?

Yes, spiritual gifts are given for service and vary among believers, while the fruit is the inward character of Christ meant to be evident in every believer. The fruit is the natural byproduct of walking in the Spirit rather than a specific task-oriented ability.

What should I do if I feel like I am failing at being "patient" or "gentle"?

Remember that you are not being graded on your performance. Instead of trying harder to be patient, turn your heart toward the mercy God has shown you, and allow His peace to settle your soul.

#Grace #Mercy #FruitOfTheSpirit #FaithBasedDevelopment #AustinGardner

The Man Who Chose Death Over Mercy: A Lesson in Grace

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:00:08 GMT

Grace cannot be forced. It must be received

Did you hear the one about the man who won his case by losing his life? It sounds like a riddle or a plot point from a gritty western novel, but it is actually a strange, sobering moment in American history. It is a story that reveals a profound truth about the nature of grace and mercy .

Most people, when they hear this story, try to pin it on Abraham Lincoln. We like to imagine the "Great Emancipator" extending a hand of forgiveness that someone was too stubborn to take. However, the events occurred decades earlier, during the presidency of Andrew Jackson. Specifically, it involves a man named George Wilson and a Supreme Court ruling that still echoes in the halls of justice and in the quiet corners of our own hearts.

It is a story about a pardon issued, a man who said "no," and a court that had to decide whether mercy can be forced on the unwilling.

The Crime of George Wilson

In the early 1830s, George Wilson and an accomplice were convicted of robbing the United States mail in Pennsylvania. Now, back then, robbing the mail wasn't just a federal offense; it was a capital crime if you put the life of the carrier in jeopardy. Wilson was sentenced to hang.

The gallows were waiting. There were no more appeals to file and no more legal loopholes to jump through. He was a dead man walking. However, because of influential friends and some public outcry, President Andrew Jackson was moved to act. He issued a formal pardon for George Wilson, which would have effectively wiped the slate clean and allowed him to walk out of prison a free man.

Most of us would think that was the end of the story. You get a pardon, you say "thank you," and you go home to your family. But George Wilson did something unthinkable. He refused the pardon. He essentially told the President of the United States, "I don't want your mercy."

A Pardon That Has No Power

The government didn't know what to do. How do you hang a man who has been pardoned? On the other hand, how do you pardon a man who won't accept it? The case, United States v. Wilson, went all the way to the Supreme Court. Chief Justice John Marshall, a man known for his sharp legal mind, delivered the opinion.

He wrote that a pardon is a deed, and for a deed to be valid, it must be delivered. But here was the kicker: delivery is not complete without acceptance. Marshall famously stated:

“A pardon is a deed, to the validity of which delivery is essential, and delivery is not complete without acceptance. It may then be rejected by the person to whom it is tendered; and if it be rejected, we have discovered no power in a court to force it on him.”

Because Wilson refused to receive the mercy offered to him, the court ruled that the pardon had no effect. Consequently, George Wilson was executed. He had the document that could save his life sitting right in front of him, but because he wouldn’t reach out and take it, he died as if the pardon never existed.

The Offensive Nature of Grace

It is easy to look at George Wilson and call him a fool. We wonder what kind of pride or madness would lead a man to choose the rope over a second chance. Yet when we look more closely, we see a reflection of our own spiritual struggle.

In my 50-plus years of ministry, from the mountain villages of Peru to the busy streets here at home, I have seen so many people do exactly what Wilson did. We often find that grace is offensive to the human ego. We want to earn our way. We want to pay our own debts. To accept a pardon is to admit that we are truly guilty and utterly helpless.

Many of us are stuck in a cycle of performance-based religion. We think that if we just work a little harder, pray a little longer, or act a little better, we can somehow balance the scales. But the Gospel isn't about balancing scales; it’s about a pardon that has already been signed by the blood of Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 2:8 “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of that yourselves: it is the gift of God.”

If it is a gift, it cannot be earned. If it is a pardon, it cannot be bought. It can only be received.

Finding True Satisfaction in Jesus

I remember a time in my own life when I was running on the treadmill of legalism. I loved God, but I was terrified of Him. I thought His mercy was a fickle commodity, dependent on how well I performed that day. I was exhausted, burned out, and frankly, I wasn't finding any satisfaction in Jesus .

It wasn't until I understood the "finished work" that everything changed. I realized that the pardon wasn't waiting for me to become worthy of it. It was already signed. My job wasn't to argue with the Judge or try to prove I didn't need the help. My job was simply to open my hands and receive it.

When you stop trying to save yourself, you finally find the rest you’ve been looking for. This is what we call The Big Leap of Faith . It’s the moment you stop saying "I'll do better" and start saying "Thank You."

Why We Refuse the Pardon

Why do we struggle to accept God’s unconditional love? Sometimes it is because we have been hurt. My wife, Betty, and I have walked through seasons of deep pain: betrayal, false accusations, and health crises like Stage 4 cancer and COVID-19. In those dark moments, the enemy whispers that you are being punished or that you’ve done something to move outside of God’s favor.

But that is a lie. Mercy is not a reward for good behavior. It is the character of God flowing toward those who are in need. If you are struggling today, if you feel "canceled" by the world or crushed by your own mistakes, remember George Wilson. The tragedy of his life wasn't the robbery or the prison cell. The tragedy was that he died with a pardon in the room.

The "DNA of Grace" is about identity over performance. It is about knowing that you are a son or daughter before you ever do a single work for the Kingdom.

Walking Into the Light

God is not forcing His grace on you. He is a gentleman. He offers the pardon, but He waits for your acceptance. You might feel like you are too far gone, or perhaps you feel like you aren't "bad enough" to need that kind of mercy. Both are forms of pride that keep the pardon on the table instead of in your heart.

John 1:12 “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.”

Notice the order: receive, then become. You don't become a son to get the pardon; you receive the pardon and realize you were a loved child all along.

As you move through your week, I want you to ask yourself: Am I striving or am I receiving? Am I trying to convince God to forgive me, or am I resting in the fact that He has already forgiven me? There is a profound satisfaction in Jesus that only comes when the war with yourself is over.

The pardon is signed. The delivery is made. The only question left is: will you accept it?

Questions You Might Have About Grace and Mercy

Is there any sin that God's pardon doesn't cover?

Scripture tells us that where sin abounded, grace did much more abound. There is no debt so large that the blood of Christ cannot pay it in full. The only "unforgivable" state is the persistent refusal to receive the mercy God offers through His Son.

How do I know if I have truly "accepted" God's grace?

Acceptance isn't just a one-time intellectual agreement; it is a posture of the heart. You know you are receiving grace when you find yourself resting in His love rather than panicking about your performance. It is moving from "I have to" to "I get to."

Does receiving grace mean I don't have to worry about my behavior anymore?

Actually, the opposite happens! When you realize how much you are truly loved and forgiven, you want to live for Him out of gratitude. Grace doesn't give us a license to sin; it gives us the power to change because we are no longer motivated by fear, but by love.

Are you ready to stop striving?

If you want to dive deeper into what it means to live a life "Followed by Mercy," I'd love for you to join our community.

Listen to the Podcast: Followed by Mercy
Watch on YouTube: @waustingardner
Explore More: The Big Leap of Faith

#Grace #Mercy #AustinGardner #FaithBasedDevelopment #SatisfactionInJesus

Followed by Mercy: You've Changed Addresses

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 10:30:00 GMT

Grace didn’t renovate your past. It relocated your life

For a long time, I lived as if the bill collector was always right around the corner. I don’t mean a man from the bank looking for a car payment, though I’ve known those days too. I mean a spiritual bill collector. I lived with the constant, nagging feeling that I owed something I couldn't pay, and that at any moment, the "Grace Police" would show up to revoke my credentials because I hadn't been consistent enough or "holy" enough.

Maybe you know that feeling. It is the weight of living at the old address. You see, for most of our lives, we lived in the House of Adam. In that house, the roof leaks, the windows are broken, and the landlord is a taskmaster named Performance. In Adam’s house, you are only as good as your last mistake. But I have some wonderful news for you today: if you are in Christ, you have changed addresses.

When you move, the old landlord loses his legal right to harass you. You don’t live there anymore. You aren’t just a "fixed-up" version of your old self; you are a resident of a completely different kingdom. You are now living in the "Winners" house, and the atmosphere there is thick with something called Followed by Mercy .

The Debt of the Old Address

In the House of Adam, everything is based on what you do. It is a house of debt. You are born into a legacy of failure, and every day you spend there, the interest on that debt grows. You try to pay it off with your morning devotions, your church attendance, and your "good behavior," but the balance never seems to drop.

Romans 5:12 "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:"

Consequently, when we think from the perspective of our old address, we are always afraid. We are afraid of being "found out." We are afraid that God is looking at us with a clipboard, marking down every time we lose our temper or every time we fail to pray. That is the DNA of the old house. It is a DNA of struggle and eventual defeat.

However, the gospel tells us that a massive transaction took place. Jesus didn’t just pay your rent for a month; He bought you a new home and moved you into it. He took you out of the lineage of the "Losers" and placed you into the lineage of the "Winners." This isn't about your winning; it's about His. Because He won, and you are in Him, you are now a resident of the House of Victory.

Understanding the Winners' House

What does it mean to live in the "Winners" house? It means you are living from the finished work of Jesus. In this house, the fridge is always full, the doors are locked tight against the enemy, and the Father is always glad to see you.

Colossians 1:13 "Who hath delivered us from the world of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:"

Notice the word "translated." It means to be moved from one place to another. You didn't just get a coat of paint on your old life. You were picked up and set down in a new reality. Specifically, you were moved from a place of "not enough" to a place of "more than enough."

I spent years trying to earn my way into God’s favor. I became legalistic not because I hated grace, but because I loved God and was afraid of losing Him. I thought that if I stayed in the "Winners" house, I had to keep winning every single day. But that’s not how this house works. You are in the house because of the Host. The victory belongs to Jesus, and He has shared the keys with you.

“God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency.”

When the Old Landlord Knocks

Even though you’ve moved, the old landlord, the Law, the accuser, your own guilt, will sometimes show up at your new front door. He will stand on the porch and shout through the mail slot, telling you that you still owe for all those years in Adam’s house. He will try to convince you that your identity is still "Sinner" rather than "Saint."

Therefore, you must learn to point to the new lease. You have to realize that you are safe in Christ. When the accusations come, you don’t have to defend your record. You point to His record. You are living from identity, not for it. This is the core of the truth about your identity in Christ .

If you’ve been struggling with the feeling that you are "behind" in your spiritual life, let me remind you of this sticky truth: You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held.

Followed by Mercy: The Hunter that Heals

In the old house, you were followed by judgment. In the new house, you are Followed by Mercy . I love the way the Psalmist describes this. It isn't a passive observation; it is a pursuit.

Psalm 23:6 "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever."

Think about that. Usually, when someone "follows" you, it feels like a threat. But in God's kingdom, the things chasing you are Goodness and Mercy. They are like two heavenly sheepdogs, nipping at your heels to keep you in the path of grace. Austin Gardner has seen this play out over fifty years of ministry: even when I tried to run away from God’s best, His mercy was faster than my rebellion.

“Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention.”

When you changed addresses, your "shadow" changed. You no longer walk with a shadow of shame following you. You walk with the active, aggressive mercy of God pursuing you. This is the Hope we have in the New Covenant. It is a settled, warm confidence that God is for us, even when we are struggling to be for ourselves.

Resting in the New Residence

The biggest challenge of moving to a new house is unlearning the habits of the old one. If the floorboards in your old house were rotten, you might walk carefully in the new house, afraid you’ll fall through. But the foundation of the Winners' house is the Rock of Ages. You don't have to tiptoe around God.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.”

You see, the big leap of faith is simply believing that God loves you exactly as you are, right now, in your new address. You don't have to "fix" the old house behavior before you can enjoy the new house blessings. The blessings of the new house are what actually give you the power to change your behavior. Loved people become loving people. Rested people become productive people.

Your Identity is Secure

If you are reading this and feeling the pressure to perform, take a deep breath. Look at the "address" on your spiritual heart. Does it say "Adam"? Or does it say "Christ"? If you have trusted in Jesus, you are officially a resident of Grace.

Your failures do not evict you. Your inconsistencies do not cancel your lease. The finished work of Jesus is a permanent change of address. You are safe. You are loved. And you are definitely followed by mercy today.

Romans 5:17 "For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ."

You were meant to reign in life, not grovel in debt. You were meant to live in the light of the Father’s smile, not the shadow of the Law’s frown. So, stop looking back at the old house. Stop trying to pay bills that Jesus already settled. Settle into your new home. It’s a beautiful place, and the Host is waiting to walk with you.

Austin Gardner: A Voice of Hope

In my journey through Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and the many ups and downs of fifty years in the ministry, I have learned that the only thing that holds is the mercy of God. These tumors are not bigger than God’s grace. Your mistakes are not bigger than God’s grace. We are residents of a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and we are held by a Love that will not let us go.

If you want to dive deeper into what it means to live from this new identity, I encourage you to check out our resource library or listen to the latest episode of the Followed by Mercy podcast. There is so much more to discover about the goodness of the Father.

FAQ: Understanding Your Spiritual Address

Can I accidentally move back to the "Old House" of Adam?

No, your change of address is a permanent spiritual relocation performed by the Holy Spirit. While you might still "think" like a resident of the old house or fall into old habits, your legal standing and identity remain securely in Christ. The work of the Christian life is learning to live according to your new address, not trying to move back into the old one.

Does "Followed by Mercy" mean I can do whatever I want?

Living in the Winners' house changes your "want-to." When you truly realize that you are unconditionally loved and followed by mercy, you no longer want to live in the ways that caused you pain in the old house. Grace is not a license to sin; it is the only power that actually enables us to live a life of joyful, free obedience.

How do I stop feeling guilty about my past?

Guilt is often the "old landlord" knocking on your new door. When those feelings arise, remind yourself that the debt has been paid in full. You must interpret your past through the lens of the finished work of Jesus. He hasn't just covered your sins; He has removed them as far as the east is from the west. Rest in His performance, not your own.

#FollowedByMercy #AustinGardner #Grace #Hope #IdentityInChrist

The Boomerang of Justice

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:15:01 GMT

Why the Accuser Doesn't Get the Last Word

Accusations are heavy things. They can feel like a shadow following you into every room, whispered words that try to redefine who you are before you even have a chance to speak. Whether it’s a rumor at work, a misunderstanding in the family, or even being canceled by people who don't know the whole story, the sting of a "false witness" is a unique kind of pain.

However, when we look back at the ancient laws given to Israel, we find something profoundly beautiful and surprisingly protective. In Deuteronomy 19, God laid out a system of justice that wasn't just about punishment; it was about protecting the heart of the community and the integrity of truth. Specifically, it reveals a principle I like to call the "Boomerang of Justice." It is a reminder that while people may throw stones of accusation, God ensures that truth has the final say.

The Safety of the Multitude

In our modern world, we often see "trial by social media," where a single post or one disgruntled voice can set off a wildfire of judgment. But God’s standard for His people was much higher and much more patient. He knew how easily a single person’s bias or bitterness could twist the truth.

Deuteronomy 19:15 “One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.”

This law establishes that truth must be confirmed, not just assumed. By requiring two or three witnesses, the Lord created a buffer against impulsive judgment. One person can be mistaken, and one person can be malicious. Consequently, God demanded corroboration. This wasn't because He was soft on sin, but because He is deeply protective of the innocent. It reminds us that our God is a God of order, not of chaos or rumors.

When the Lie Becomes a Boomerang

What happens when someone intentionally tries to destroy another person with a lie? This is where the law gets very interesting and very serious. Verse 16 describes a "malicious witness" who rises up to testify wrongly. In a community where your reputation was your life, a false accusation was a lethal weapon.

Deuteronomy 19:18-19 “And the judges shall make diligent inquisition: and, behold, if the witness be a false witness, and hath testified falsely against his brother; Then shall ye do unto him, as he had thought to have done unto his brother: so shalt thou put the evil away from among you.”

Think about the weight of that. If a man falsely accused his neighbor of a crime that carried a certain penalty, and the judges discovered the lie, the accuser received the exact penalty he intended for his victim. It is the ultimate "return to sender" policy.

This is the Boomerang of Justice. In God’s economy, the pit you dig for another is the one you will eventually fall into. While this might sound harsh at first glance, it is actually an expression of profound mercy for the community. It protects the vulnerable from being weaponized against by the powerful or the deceitful. It ensures that those who deal in falsehoods have to face the very reality they tried to force upon someone else.

The True Meaning of "Eye for an Eye"

We often hear the phrase "eye for an eye" used to justify revenge or a "get-even" attitude. However, in the context of Deuteronomy, this principle, known as lex talionis, was actually a limit on revenge.

Deuteronomy 19:21 “And thine eye shall not pity; but life shall go for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.”

Before this law, if someone knocked out a man's tooth, that man might respond by burning down the offender's entire house. Human nature tends to escalate. We don't just want justice; we often want "justice plus interest." But God said, "No." The punishment must be proportional. It must fit the crime, and it must go no further.

This standard prevented feuds from spiraling out of control. It brought a settled, measured peace to the legal system. In our own lives, when we feel the urge to "get back" at those who have hurt us or canceled us, we have to remember that God is the judge. We don’t have to escalate the conflict to find satisfaction. We can rest knowing that God’s justice is precise, fair, and entirely sufficient.

Facing the Ultimate Accuser

As heavy as earthly accusations can be, there is an even more persistent voice we all face. Scripture calls Satan the "accuser of our brethren" (Revelation 12:10). He is the master of the malicious witness. He takes our real failures, twists them with lies about our worth, and tries to convince us that we are beyond the reach of grace.

Meanwhile, the Boomerang of Justice is working on a cosmic scale. Satan intended for the "sentence" of our sin: death and separation, to be our permanent end. He stood before the Lord, pointing out every hand that stumbled and every foot that strayed. He wanted us to pay the full price.

But then, Jesus stepped into the courtroom.

The Great Exchange: Jesus and the Boomerang

If the law says "life for life," then our lives were forfeit because of sin. We deserved the sentence. But the beauty of the Gospel is that Jesus Christ, our High Priest and Advocate, stepped in the way of the boomerang.

He took the "eye for an eye" that we deserved. He took the "life for life" payment. On the cross, the malicious intent of the enemy was turned back on his own head. Satan thought the cross was the end of Jesus; instead, it was the end of Satan’s power over us. The sentence he intended for us fell on Christ, and because Christ rose again, the accuser was silenced forever.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.” : Austin Gardner

You see, our identity is no longer defined by the accusations thrown at us: whether they come from a neighbor, a social media thread, or the enemy of our souls. We are defined by the Advocate who stands for us. You aren't "the one who failed" or "the one who was canceled." You are the one who is loved, defended, and held.

Walking in Freedom and Mercy

When we realize that Jesus has handled the ultimate boomerang of justice, it changes how we handle the smaller boomerangs of life. We don't have to live in fear of what others say. We don't have to spend our days trying to "set the record straight" with every critic.

Instead, we can move toward a place of faith-based development where our growth isn't fueled by a need to prove people wrong, but by a desire to live out of the satisfaction in Jesus we already possess. When you know you are loved by the Judge, the opinions of the "witnesses" lose their power.

If you are struggling with the weight of being misunderstood or falsely accused, I want to encourage you to take The Big Leap of Faith . It is the simple, yet profound, act of believing that God loves you exactly as you are, right in the middle of the mess.

"God’s mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope." The accuser doesn't get the last word in your life. God does. And His last word is always "Grace."

FAQ: Understanding God’s Justice and Mercy

What does it mean that the accuser receives the sentence they intended?

In Deuteronomy 19, if a witness was found to be lying, the court would impose the same punishment on them that would have been given to the accused. This "boomerang" effect served as a deterrent against false testimony and protected the innocent from being destroyed by lies.

Is "eye for an eye" about getting revenge on people who hurt me?

Actually, it is the opposite. It was a legal principle designed to limit revenge, ensuring that punishments were proportional and not excessive. In our personal lives, Jesus calls us to a higher standard of grace, leaving the "balancing of the scales" to God while we walk in forgiveness.

How do I deal with the "Accuser of the Brethren" in my daily life?

The best way to handle spiritual accusation is to point to your Advocate, Jesus Christ. Remind yourself that the sentence you deserved was already paid in full on the cross. Your identity is found in Christ’s finished work, not in your past mistakes or the enemy’s lies.

#Faith #Mercy #AustinGardner #Grace #Inspiration

Your Weakness Is His Pulpit (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 22:05:23 GMT

Stop Trying to Impress People

You are exhausted.

Not because you are lazy. Not because you lack faith. You are exhausted because you have been trying to generate something you were only meant to receive.

Most of us live the Christian life like we are a power plant. We wake up and try to manufacture enough goodness, enough patience, enough strength to keep the lights on. By Tuesday afternoon, we are running on fumes. By Friday, we are faking it.

Here is the truth that changed everything for me: You are not the generator. You are the lamp.

A lamp does not produce electricity. It simply stays plugged in. The moment it disconnects from the source, the light goes out. No amount of effort or straining will make that lamp shine on its own.

The same is true for you and me.

The Same Power That Raised Jesus Is Working in You Right Now

Ephesians 1:19-20 "And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in heavenly places."

Read that again slowly.

The power Paul describes is not a trickle. It is not a half-measure. It is the same force that reached into the cold tomb and pulled Jesus back to life. The same energy that seated Him at the right hand of the Father.

And Paul says that power is working in you right now .

Not someday. Not when you get your act together. Right now.

This is not a motivational slogan. This is the operating system of the Christian life. We do not live for God in our own strength. We live from Him and His strength. He is the one doing in us what we could never do ourselves.

Why Ministry Leaders Burn Out (And How to Stop)

Colossians 1:29 "Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily."

Paul was not a lazy man. He used words like "labour" and "striving." Ministry is real work. Leadership is a genuine struggle.

But look at the rest of the verse. He strived according to His working. The power source was not Paul's intellect, his discipline, or his adrenaline. It was God working mightily in him.

Here is where most of us get it wrong. We think faithfulness means grinding harder. We think burnout is the price of obedience. So we push and push until there is nothing left.

But that was never the design.

"The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first."

If you are in ministry and you are running on empty, the answer is not more hustle. The answer is staying connected to the source. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and you cannot shine from a disconnected lamp.

Your Pain Is His Pulpit

2 Corinthians 12:9 "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

This verse wrecked my theology of strength.

Paul had a thorn. We do not know exactly what it was: sickness, opposition, or some persistent struggle. He begged God three times to remove it. God said no.

Instead, God said something better: "My power is made perfect in your weakness."

Not despite your weakness. In it. Through it.

I have walked through cancer. I have walked through COVID when my body felt like it was shutting down. I have walked through seasons where I had nothing impressive to offer anyone.

And here is what I learned: when I stopped trying to impress people, God finally had room to work.

Your weakness is not an obstacle to God's power. It is the address where His power shows up.

"These tumors are not bigger than God's grace."

So stop hiding your cracks. Stop performing strength you do not have. Let your pain become His pulpit. Let your struggle become the place where Christ's power rests on you.

How to Stay Connected to the Vine

John 15:4-5 "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."

The word "abide" sounds spiritual and mysterious. But it simply means stay . Remain. Do not leave.

The branch does not strain to produce grapes. It does not grunt and groan as it tries to manufacture fruit. It just stays attached to the vine. Life flows through. The fruit happens.

This is the secret most Christians miss. Abiding is not about doing more. It is about resting more . It is about staying in relationship, staying in intimacy, staying connected.

"Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first."

You are not living for Jesus. Jesus is living through you. There is a world of difference.

Practical Ways to Stay Plugged In

Abiding is not something you try. It is something you learn. Here are a few ways I have learned to stay connected:

Start your day plugged in. Before the emails, before the demands, spend a few minutes in His presence. Not to earn anything. Just to remember who you are.

Talk to Him throughout the day. Not formal prayers. Just conversation. "Lord, I need wisdom here." "Thank You for that." "Help me love this person."

Let the Word take root. Do not just read Scripture to check a box. Let it sink in. Meditate on a verse until it becomes part of you.

Surrender your plans and reactions. Every time you feel anxious or angry, hand it over. "Lord, this is Yours. I cannot carry it."

Philippians 2:13 "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure."

He is producing both the desire and the ability. Your job is to stay connected.

If you want to go deeper on what it means to rest in God's unconditional love, I wrote about it here: The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are .

All the Glory Belongs to Him

Ephesians 3:20-21 "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen."

When the power is His, the glory is His.

No one should look at your life and think, "What an impressive Christian." They should look at your life and say, "What a great God."

"You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held."

The lamp does not get credit for the light. The branch does not get applause for the fruit. And that is the most freeing news in the world.

You do not have to impress anyone. You just have to stay plugged in.

Ready to go deeper? Explore more grace-centered teaching on the Followed By Mercy podcast or visit waustingardner.com/book-page for resources on living from God's love rather than for His approval.

For Spanish-speaking readers, Guillermo A. Gardner shares these same truths at guillermoagardner.substack.com .

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "My strength is made perfect in weakness" actually mean?

It means God's power is most clearly displayed when we stop relying on our own abilities. When you admit you cannot do it alone, you create space for His strength to work through you. Your weakness becomes the stage where His power performs.

How do I stop trying to impress people in ministry?

Start by recognizing that your worth is not measured by your performance. God is not grading you. When you truly believe you are loved unconditionally, the pressure to perform fades. You shift from proving yourself to simply staying connected to Christ and letting Him work.

What does it mean to "abide" in Christ practically?

Abiding means staying in relationship with Jesus through daily conversation, time in Scripture, and surrendering your anxieties to Him. It is less about religious activity and more about resting in His presence. Think of it as staying plugged into the power source rather than trying to generate your own energy.

The High Priest’s Clock: Why Your Freedom Depends on Another’s Death

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 12:45:02 GMT

Your Release Was Written in Someone Else’s Death

Imagine you are standing just inside the heavy gates of a City of Refuge. You are safe. The "avenger of blood", the relative of the person you accidentally killed, is standing outside those gates, but he cannot touch you. You have found mercy. However, as you look around at the stone walls and the unfamiliar faces, a sobering reality sets in. You cannot go home. You cannot go back to your farm, your family, or your old life. You are safe, but you are a displaced person.

Naturally, the first question anyone in that position would ask is: "How long? When can I leave?"

In any modern judicial system, we expect a sentence. We expect a calendar. A judge might say "five years" or "ten years." But in the biblical Cities of Refuge, there was no fixed sentence. There was no "time served" for good behavior. Instead, your entire future was tied to a ticking heart that wasn't your own. You were waiting on the High Priest’s clock.

The Sentence with No Calendar

In the book of Numbers, God established a very specific and unusual rule for the "slayer" who fled to a City of Refuge. Their freedom was not determined by a court date, but by a funeral.

Numbers 35:25 “And the congregation shall deliver the slayer out of the hand of the revenger of blood, and the congregation shall restore him to the city of his refuge, whither he was fled: and he shall abide in it unto the death of the high priest, which was anointed with the holy oil.”

This is the "legal skeleton" of covenant grace. It’s a concept that can feel foreign to performance-driven thinking. Many of us instinctively believe that if we work hard enough, apologize enough, or stay "in line" long enough, we can earn our way back to freedom. But the slayer had no such option. He couldn't negotiate. He couldn't appeal to a higher court. He simply had to wait for the death of the High Priest.

This setup tells us something profound about how God views our restoration. It isn't about what you do; it's about what Someone Else has done. Your freedom doesn't depend on your effort; it depends on another’s death.

The Shortest Stay and the Longest Stay

I was looking through some research recently, and I noticed a fascinating detail about this arrangement. Because the release was tied to the High Priest’s death, the duration of a stay in the City of Refuge was entirely unpredictable.

One man might arrive at the gates in the morning, and the High Priest, perhaps an elderly man, might pass away that very afternoon. That slayer would be free to go home after only a few hours. Meanwhile, another man might arrive at the gates while a young, healthy High Priest was just beginning his service. That man might wait forty or fifty years before he could walk out of those gates as a free man.

Was the first man "better" than the second? Did he deserve freedom more? Of course not. The timing had nothing to do with the slayer's character. It had everything to do with the High Priest.

This is a beautiful picture of how grace works. Many believers know what it is like to compare their "progress" in the Christian life to others. At times, we can feel behind, or we can feel like we’ve been "stuck" in a season of struggle for too long. But the reality is that our hope rests in the same finished work.

“You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held.”

The Reset of the Land

You might ask, "Why did someone have to die for the slayer to go home?" To understand this, we need to examine the legal nature of the Covenant. In the biblical worldview, blood defiled the land. When a life was taken, even accidentally, it created a legal "debt" or a stain on the community.

The death of the High Priest acted as a substitutionary "reset." As the representative of the people before God, the High Priest’s life and death carried unique weight. When he died, it was as if the ledger was wiped clean for everyone within the Cities of Refuge. The legal debt was satisfied, not by the person who committed the act, but by the one who held the office of mediator.

For those of us who have spent years trying to "fix" our past or pay off our spiritual debts through religious performance, this is a massive relief. Grace isn't just a warm, fuzzy feeling or a polite "it's okay." Grace is a legal release. It is God saying, "The debt has been paid by the Mediator, so the prisoner is free to go."

Jesus: The Priest Who Ended the Clock

While the Cities of Refuge provided a safe harbor, they were only a shadow of the real thing. The earthly High Priests eventually died, and then a new one was anointed, and the cycle began again. But then came Jesus.

The writer of Hebrews spends chapters 4-10 explaining why Jesus is the "Greater High Priest." He didn't just offer a sacrifice; He was the sacrifice. And unlike the priests of old, His death was a "once for all" event.

Hebrews 9:12 “Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.”

Think about the implications of that "once for all" death. In the Old Testament, if you accidentally killed someone after the High Priest had died, you had to wait for the next one to die. The clock resets every generation. But with Jesus, the clock has stopped. His death was so powerful, so final, and so legally binding that the release He provides never expires.

Because He died, you are free. Because He rose again and lives forever, your freedom is permanently secured. He is a High Priest who "ever liveth to make intercession" for us (Hebrews 7:25). We aren't waiting for another funeral. The funeral that mattered already happened two thousand years ago.

Moving from Striving to Rest

I’ve spent over 50 years in ministry, and I’ve seen so many people live as though they are still trying to earn their way out of the City of Refuge. They act as though they are on probation. They think, "If I can just be consistent enough, maybe God will let me go home. Maybe then He’ll really bless me."

But friend, that can become the language of striving rather than the language of the Covenant. If you are in Christ, you are already home. You aren't being graded on your consistency. You are being loved in your mess.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.”

When I was going through my battle with Stage 4 cancer and then COVID, I didn't have the strength to perform. I couldn't "earn" God's favor by being a great missionary or a productive leader. I had to sit in the reality that my standing with God was entirely dependent on my Great High Priest. Whether I felt strong or weak, whether I was "productive" or stuck in a hospital bed, the legal reality remained the same: I was free because He died.

The Invitation of the Covenant

The Cities of Refuge were an invitation to stop running and start resting. If you’ve been running from your past, or running toward a version of yourself you think God will finally accept, I want you to look at the High Priest’s clock.

The clock has stopped. The sacrifice has been made. The death that was required for your freedom has already taken place. You don’t have to stay "stuck" in guilt or shame. You can walk out of those gates today, not because you’ve served your time, but because Jesus has served His.

Your identity isn't "the slayer" or "the failure." Your identity is "the redeemed." This is what blessing really means in the Bible : it’s the favor of God resting on you because of your union with Christ.

God is not disappointed in you. He isn't looking at your "time served." He is looking at His Son. In Him, you have a permanent, legal release from every accusation and every weight. You can rest today.

“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

If you want to dive deeper into how this identity changes everything, I encourage you to read The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are . It’s time to stop striving and start resting in the finished work of our Great High Priest.

FAQ: Understanding the High Priest's Role in Freedom

Why did the slayer have to stay until the High Priest died?

In the Old Covenant, the death of the High Priest acted as a legal "reset" for the land, which was considered defiled by the shedding of blood. His death satisfied the requirement for atonement, allowing those in the Cities of Refuge to return home without fear of legal retribution.

Does my freedom today depend on my behavior or "time served"?

No. Just as the slayer’s release depended entirely on the life and death of the High Priest, our freedom from sin and guilt depends entirely on the finished work of Jesus Christ. It is a legal release based on His death, not a reward for our good behavior or effort.

How is Jesus different from the High Priests in the Old Testament?

Earthly High Priests were mortal, and their deaths provided a temporary solution for that generation. Jesus is our eternal High Priest who died "once for all," providing a permanent and final redemption that never needs to be repeated or supplemented by our works.

#Grace #FaithBasedDevelopment #AustinGardner #Covenant #Mercy

The Run for Your Life: Finding Safety in the Cities of Refuge

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 12:45:01 GMT

When Your Past Is Chasing You and Grace Opens the Gate

Have you ever had one of those moments where time seems to stand still? One second, everything is normal. You’re working, you’re planning your day, you’re just living your life. Then, in a heartbeat, everything changes. A mistake is made. A word is spoken that you can’t take back. A decision leads to a consequence you never intended. Suddenly, you aren’t just living anymore: you’re running.

You feel hunted. Maybe it’s not a person chasing you, but it’s the weight of your past. It’s the "what ifs" and the "if onlys." You feel the hot breath of guilt on your neck, and the "enraged avenger" of your own conscience is gaining ground. If you’ve ever felt like you needed a place to hide: a place where the rules of "eye for an eye" don’t apply and where mercy actually has the final say: then you need to know about the Cities of Refuge .

This is the first article in our series exploring these incredible places. Before we look at the specific cities, we have to understand the heart behind them. These weren't just dots on a map; they were a physical manifestation of God’s heart for people who have messed up.

The Day Everything Went Wrong

The Bible gives us a very specific, almost mundane example of why someone would need to run for their life. It’s found in the book of Deuteronomy. Imagine two friends heading out into the woods to gather firewood. They’re talking, laughing, and swinging their axes.

Deuteronomy 19:5 "As when a man goeth into the wood with his neighbour to hew wood, and his hand fetcheth a stroke with the axe to cut down the tree, and the head slippeth from the helve, and lighteth upon his neighbour, that he die; he shall flee unto one of those cities, and live:"

One swing. The iron head flies off the wooden handle. It hits his friend. In an instant, a tragic accident has occurred. There was no malice. There was no "premeditated" plan. But there is a body on the ground, and in the ancient world, justice was swift and personal.

The "Avenger of Blood": usually the nearest relative, had a legal right to seek retribution. In the heat of anger, that avenger wasn't going to stop and ask for a trial. He was coming for the man who swung the axe. This is the reality of the human condition. We live in a world of consequences and "enraged avengers." Sometimes those avengers are external, but often, they are the voices in our own heads telling us that we don't deserve peace because of what happened "back then."

God’s Strategic Provision of Mercy

God knew that human anger is often faster than human justice. He knew that we needed a way out when our mistakes threatened to consume us. So, He commanded Moses and Joshua to set aside six specific cities.

Numbers 35:11 "Then ye shall appoint you cities to be cities of refuge for you; that the slayer may flee thither, which killeth any person at unawares."

The placement of these cities was brilliant. They weren't tucked away in a corner of the country. They were strategically spread out: three on one side of the Jordan River and three on the other. They were positioned so that no matter where you were in Israel, you were never more than half a day’s run from safety.

Tradition tells us that the roads leading to these cities were kept wide and clear. Any obstacle, any stone, or any fallen branch was removed so that the runner wouldn't stumble. There were even signposts at every crossroads with one word written on them: Mikl. Refuge.

Isn't that just like our Father? He doesn't make the path to mercy confusing or out of reach. Instead, He clears the road. He puts up the signs. He makes sure that when you are at your lowest, the way to safety is plain and open. Throughout the body of Christ, this beautiful truth is taught in many faithful ways, yet the picture here is wonderfully simple: God makes a clear way for weary people to find mercy. As I've shared in my book, Rising Above the Hurt , God isn't trying to catch you in your mistake; He’s trying to provide a way for you to rise above it.

The Reality of the Enraged Avenger

We have to talk about the "Avenger of Blood" for a moment. In the Bible, this was the Goel. While we often think of this role as purely vengeful, it was actually about trying to set things "right" in a broken world. However, when we are the ones being chased, that "justice" feels like a death sentence.

Many of us are living our lives with an internal "enraged avenger." Maybe you’ve experienced the pain of being canceled by people who didn't know the whole story. Maybe you’re being chased by the debt of a failed business or the wreckage of a broken marriage. You feel like if you stop running, the consequences will finally catch up and destroy you.

In those moments, the "Cities of Refuge" remind us that God provides a boundary. He says, "The avenger can go this far, but no further." There is a place where the pursuit ends.

The Boundary of Safety: Staying Inside the City

There was one major condition for the person who fled to a City of Refuge: they had to stay inside the city.

Numbers 35:26-27 "But if the slayer shall at any time come without the border of the city of his refuge, whither he was fled; And the revenger of blood find him without the borders of the city of his refuge, and the revenger of blood kill the slayer; he shall not be guilty of blood."

The safety wasn't just in the name of the city; it was in the dwelling within it. This is a powerful picture of our life in Christ. We often want to run to God for a "quick fix" and then run right back out into our own strength, our own performance, and our own efforts to "make things right."

But the moment we step out of the "city" of grace and back into the world of "earning and deserving," we find ourselves exposed again. The protection is conditional on our residence. It’s about where we choose to live our lives. Are you living in the city of God’s unconditional love, or are you wandering back out into the fields where the avenger is waiting?

“Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention.” : Austin Gardner

Mercy in the Midst of the Law

One of the most beautiful things about the Cities of Refuge is that they show God’s mercy within the context of His law. He didn't just abolish the consequences; He provided a sanctuary. And as we reflect on that, we can do so with gratitude for the ways faithful believers have understood these truths through the years, while still seeing how clearly this picture points us to mercy.

In the Old Testament, the slayer had to stay in the city until the death of the High Priest. Once the High Priest died, the slayer was legally free to go home, and the avenger no longer had any claim on him. The debt was considered paid.

Think about that for a second. Our High Priest, Jesus Christ, has already died. His death didn't just give us a temporary place to hide; it provided a permanent release from the "avenger." Because He died, we can go home. We don't have to live in fear of our past catching up to us. At the Cross, every claim against us was fully answered in Him.

Finding Your Refuge Today

You might not have accidentally killed someone with an axe head, but I know you’ve felt that "hunted" feeling. You’ve felt the weight of your mistakes. You’ve felt the pressure to perform, to fix what’s broken, and to outrun your shame.

I want you to hear me clearly: God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency or your ability to "stay out of trouble." He is the one who built the city. He is the one who cleared the road. He is the one who put up the signposts.

If you are running today, stop and look for the signs. The road to mercy is open. You don't have to earn your way into the city; you just have to enter and stay. Your identity is not "The One Who Messed Up." Your identity is "The One Who Is Safe in the City."

“The Christian life is not intended to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.” : Austin Gardner

As we continue this series, we’re going to look at each of the six cities by name. Each name reveals something specific about the character of our Refuge. But for today, just breathe. The "enraged avenger" of your past has no authority inside the gates of His grace.

You can stop running. You are home.

Questions People Often Ask

What happened if the person was actually guilty of murder?

The Cities of Refuge were not "get out of jail free" cards for intentional killers. Once a person reached the city, they stood trial. If it was determined that the act was intentional, they were handed over to justice. The city was a protection for the unintentional: a beautiful picture of how grace covers our human frailty and mistakes.

Why did they have to stay until the High Priest died?

The High Priest's death served as a legal "reset." It symbolized an atonement that satisfied the law's requirements for that era. For us, it points directly to Jesus, whose death provides a permanent "reset" for anyone who trusts in Him.

Can I ever spiritually leave the "City of Refuge"?

While we are eternally secure in Christ, we often "leave" the city mentally and emotionally by going back to legalism and performance. When we try to earn God's favor, we leave the safety of resting in His finished work. The invitation is always to return to the rest of grace.

#Grace #Mercy #AustinGardner #BibleStudy #Refuge

The Aligned Leader: Why the DNA of Grace is the Cure for Ministry Burnout

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:45:02 GMT

Why burnout isn’t caused by too much ministry but by carrying a weight God never asked you to bear

Ministry burnout doesn't usually happen because we have too much work to do. It happens because we have too much weight to carry. For years, I believed that my value as a leader was directly tied to the success of the churches I planted and the number of leaders I mentored. Consequently, I lived like an employee of God rather than His child. I was constantly checking the spiritual "time clock," wondering if I had done enough to keep the Boss happy.

Eventually, that weight will crush any man. If you are reading this and feel the spark has gone out, or if you wake up with a sense of dread about your "to-do" list for the Kingdom, I want to talk to you heart to heart. You might not have a workload problem; you might have an alignment problem. The Aligned Leader is not someone who has mastered a set of management techniques. Instead, an aligned leader is someone whose heart is synchronized with the DNA of Grace.

The Performance-Based Identity Trap

Most of us enter ministry with the best of intentions. We love the Lord, and we want to serve Him with everything we have. However, somewhere along the way, the "Finished Work" of Jesus gets replaced by the "Unfinished Work" of the minister. We start to believe that the church's health rests entirely on our shoulders. Specifically, we begin to view our relationship with God through the lens of a job description.

When you act like an employee, you are always one mistake away from being fired. You live in a state of perpetual "performance review." Therefore, every dip in attendance or every criticism from a deacon feels like a personal rejection from God Himself. This mindset is the primary fuel for burnout. It creates a high-stakes environment where your identity is up for grabs every Sunday morning.

We must realize that ministry is not a high-stakes corporate ladder. It is a family lineage. You aren't God’s hired hand; you are His heir. When you shift from "earning" to "inheriting," the pressure begins to lift. You realize that you aren't working for God’s favor; you are working from it.

The ICU Realization: I Had Nothing to Offer

I spent over 50 years in the trenches of ministry. I’ve planted churches in the mountains of Peru, trained hundreds of missionaries, and led large organizations. For a long time, I thought my activity was my offering. Then, everything changed in a hospital room.

Facing Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and a brutal battle with COVID-19, I found myself in the ICU. I couldn't preach. I couldn't lead a meeting. I couldn't even hold a Bible. In that moment of absolute weakness, the Holy Spirit whispered a truth that changed everything: "I had nothing to offer, and that was okay."

God didn't love me because I was a successful missionary in Peru. He didn't love me because I was "Austin Gardner, the leader." He loved me because I was His. That realization is the core of what it means to be The Aligned Leader . When you are stripped of your titles and your "metrics," what is left? If the answer is "a beloved child of God," then you are aligned.

Romans 8:15 "For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father."

What is the DNA of Grace?

Alignment happens when we allow the "DNA of Grace" to overwrite our natural tendency toward legalism. We are born with a "performance" setting. We think that if we do good, we get good. But the Gospel flips the script. Grace tells us that because Jesus did perfectly, we get His reward.

This DNA of Grace aligns your heart with God’s mission by removing the fear of failure. If you cannot "earn" God’s love by your success, then you cannot "lose" it by your failure. This freedom allows you to lead with a clean heart. You no longer need people to validate you because you are already validated by the Father.

When this DNA takes hold, your leadership style changes. You stop being a boss and start being a brother. You stop being a judge and start being a mentor. This is the only way to survive the long haul in ministry without becoming cynical or exhausted.

Shifting from Metrics to Mercy

In our modern church culture, we are obsessed with metrics. We track "noses and nickels" and use them as a barometer for God’s blessing. While growth is wonderful, it is a terrible foundation for your soul. The Aligned Leader chooses to lead out of the "finished work" of Jesus rather than the "frenetic work" of the flesh.

Consider this: Jesus has already won. The victory is secured. Our job in ministry is simply to announce that victory and to invite others into the rest He provides. When you lead from mercy, you aren't trying to build a kingdom for yourself; you are simply pointing people to the King who already has everything under control.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first,” , Austin Gardner

If you are waiting for your ministry to be "perfect" before you can rest, you will never rest. Rest is the prerequisite for healthy leadership, not the reward for it. You must learn to sit at the Father’s feet and hear Him say, "Well done," before you ever step behind the pulpit.

Leading as an Heir, Not an Employee

An employee focuses on what he can get from the master. An heir focuses on what the master has already given. When you view your leadership through the lens of sonship, the "stakes" change. You aren't trying to prove your worth to God. Instead, you are expressing the joy of being His.

Galatians 4:7 "Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ."

This shift is the ultimate cure for burnout. Burnout is the result of trying to give what you haven't received. If you are constantly pouring out but never being filled by the Father’s unconditional love, you will run dry. But when you are aligned, when you know you are loved exactly as you are, you lead from an overflow of grace.

Practical Steps Toward Alignment

How do we actually make this shift? It starts with the "Big Leap of Faith." You have to actually believe that God loves you apart from your performance. This is the most difficult thing for a ministry leader to do because we are trained to be the "experts" in God’s love for others, yet we often fail to apply it to ourselves.

Audit your motivations. Ask yourself: "Am I doing this because I'm afraid God will be disappointed if I don't?" If the answer is yes, stop. Repent of your performance-based identity and return to the DNA of Grace.
Embrace your limitations. You are a man, not a Messiah. Being okay with your weaknesses is a sign of spiritual alignment.
Focus on the "Finished Work." Every morning, remind yourself that Jesus has already done the hard part. Your job is to walk in the works He has already prepared.

Remarkably, the more you rest in His grace, the more productive your ministry will actually become. Loved people become loving people. Rested leaders become resilient leaders.

Finding Your Way Back to the Heart of the Father

If you’ve been wandering in the desert of performance, it’s time to come home. God isn't looking for your impressive resumes or your church growth charts. He is looking for you. He wants to lead you beside still waters and restore your soul.

Ministry is a beautiful calling, but it is a terrible god. Don't let the work of the Lord destroy the work of God in you. Align your heart with the truth that you are a child, an heir, and a recipient of infinite mercy. When you do, the burnout will lift, and the joy of your salvation will return.

To dive deeper into this journey of moving from fear to faith, read our foundational article on The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are.

FAQ: Understanding The Aligned Leader

How do I know if I’m leading out of performance or grace?

Ask yourself how you feel when things go wrong in your ministry. If a failure feels like a threat to your standing with God, you are likely operating out of a performance-based identity. A grace-aligned leader can face failure with peace, knowing their value is secured in Christ’s finished work.

Can a leader really be "productive" if they are focusing on rest?

Absolutely, because biblical rest isn't inactivity: it is "holy activity" powered by the Spirit rather than the flesh. When you stop striving in your own strength, you become more effective because you are finally letting God work through you.

What is the first step to recovering from ministry burnout?

The first step is to be totally honest with God about your exhaustion and your "employee" mindset. Stop trying to "fix" yourself and instead collapse into the arms of the Father, accepting that His mercy is running toward you with intention right now.

#Grace #MinistryBurnout #TheAlignedLeader #AustinGardner #FaithBasedDevelopment

Unshakable: Where Does Your Confidence Really Live?

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 08:15:02 GMT

What Job understood about confidence that can free you from fear, performance, and the pressure to secure yourself.

True confidence is a rare commodity in a world that feels like it’s vibrating with anxiety. We live in a time where the news cycle is designed to keep your heart rate up and your hope down. Whether it is the fluctuating economy, the stability of your job, or the shrinking value of a retirement fund, there is always something whispering that your security is on thin ice. Consequently, many of us spend our lives building fortresses out of paper, hoping the wind doesn’t blow too hard.

We are finally coming to the home stretch of the book of Job. If anyone had a right to feel like his world had been nuked, it was Job. After chapters of listening to his "friends" tell him why he was a failure, and after God finally stepped in to put everything into perspective, we see a man who had deep roots. Before the trial even started, Job had already decided where his confidence lived.

Job 31:24-25 “If I have made gold my hope, or have said to the fine gold, Thou art my confidence; If I rejoiced because my wealth was great, and because mine hand had gotten much;”

Job was a wealthy man: one of the wealthiest of his time. However, he realized something that many of us miss: your net worth is not your self-worth. He was defending his integrity, reminding his critics that even when he had everything, those "things" never owned him. He didn’t make gold his hope. He didn’t let his bank account tell him who he was.

Believing Your Own Press Releases

There is a subtle trap we all fall into when things are going well. We begin to believe our own press releases. We look at our successful businesses, our growing ministries, or our comfortable homes and think, "I did this." We start to believe that we are the architects of our own security. Consequently, we begin to trust in the gift rather than the Giver.

I know that feeling all too well. Throughout fifty years of ministry, I have seen seasons of great abundance and seasons of absolute scarcity. I have faced Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and a brutal battle with COVID-19. In those moments, your "gold": whether that’s your health, your reputation, or your finances, cannot save you. If your confidence is tied to those things, you will crumble when they are threatened.

Job is finishing his defense here. He is essentially saying, "I lived right, and I didn't let my heart get hooked on my stuff." He used what he had to bless others. He didn't brag about his wealth because he knew where it came from. Meanwhile, his friends were convinced he must have sinned because he lost it all. They were operating on a performance-based theology: if you're good, you get gold; if you're bad, you get boils. But Job knew better. He knew that true confidence has nothing to do with your circumstances.

The Mirror of the Modern Economy

Let’s get raw for a minute. How much are you trusting in your money right now? Specifically, when you look at the economy and the terrifying forecasts on the news, does your heart sink? If your peace is tied to the Dow Jones, you are going to be a very stressed-out individual.

Many people today find their worlds crumbling because they placed their hope in the wrong things. We have been conditioned to believe that security is found in a "diversified portfolio" or "job security." While those things aren't inherently evil, they make terrible gods. They are shifting sands. If you are a child of God, you were never meant to be sustained by a paycheck; you are sustained by a Person.

Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

This isn't a legalistic "do this to get that" formula. This is an invitation to identity. When you realize that you are already loved, already accepted, and already held by the Creator of the universe, the pressure to "secure" yourself starts to evaporate. You don't have to spend your life frantically gathering gold to feel safe. You can rest because you are a son or a daughter of the King.

Abundance is Not "Stuff"

We often confuse the "abundant life" with an "abundant lifestyle." Jesus was very clear about this distinction. He didn't come so we could have more gold; He came so we could have more of Him.

Luke 12:15 “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”

If your life is measured by your things, you will always be one crisis away from an identity crisis. Furthermore, you will find yourself constantly comparing your "pile" to someone else’s. This is the exhaustion of the performance-based life. It’s the "Mirror You Keep Trying to Eat": trying to find nourishment in a reflection of success that can never actually feed your soul. For more on breaking free from this, you might find The Big Leap of Faith helpful.

The Superior Reality of Jesus

Job lost his gold, his children, and his health, yet he remained unshakable. Why? Because he had something, or rather, Someone, far superior. He knew that even if his skin was destroyed, he would see God. That is true confidence .

In the New Covenant, we have even more reason to be bold. We aren't just looking forward to a Redeemer; we are united with Him. Christ is in you. The One who walked on water and fed the five thousand is the same One who is looking after your grocery bill and your mortgage. He is not a distant landlord; He is a loving Father.

John 10:10 “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

This abundant life is found in the finished work of Jesus. It is the freedom of knowing that even if the economy collapses and the "gold" disappears, you are still fully known, fully loved, and fully provided for. You don't need to perform for Him to take care of you. You don't need to "earn" His protection. You are being held.

“God is not measuring your worth by your consistency. You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held.”

Living in the "Now" Without Fear

So, what do we do when the news forecasters have us terrified? We turn our hearts toward Him. We stop trying to find security in things that are designed to fail. We realize that the Lord Jesus Christ is our all.

Hebrews 13:5 “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”

That promise is better than any retirement fund. He will never leave you. He will never forsake you. Specifically, when the bank account is low, He is there. When the job is in danger, He is there. He is your constant, your anchor, and your very present help in trouble.

You don't need gold to trust in. You have Jesus. And because you have Him, you have everything. Stop carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. You were never meant to power your life through fear or performance. You were meant to live from a place of being loved first.

Finding Your Rest Today

As we wrap up these thoughts from Job, let’s take a breath. If you’ve been feeling the weight of financial stress or the fear of the unknown, let this be your permission to stop striving. You aren't going to "win" at life by accumulating enough stuff to feel safe. Safety is a Person, not a price tag.

Turn your heart toward Him today. Trust that He knows exactly what you need. He has promised to add "all these things" to you as you simply walk with Him. You are secure not because of what you have done, but because of what He has finished.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.”

Let’s choose to be like Job: men and women who can say, "Gold was never my hope anyway." Our hope is in the Lord, and that is a confidence that no economic crisis can ever take away.

FAQ: True Confidence and Financial Fear

Is it wrong for a Christian to have wealth or savings?

Not at all. Job was incredibly wealthy, and God called him a righteous man. The issue isn't having gold; it’s making gold your "hope" or "confidence." Money is a great tool, but a terrible master.

How do I stop worrying about the economy when things look so bad?

Worry is usually a signal that we’ve shifted our trust from God to our circumstances. Re-center your identity in the truth that you are a child of God. Remind yourself of Hebrews 13:5: He has promised never to leave you or forsake you, regardless of what the market does.

What does "abundant life" actually mean if I'm struggling financially?

Abundant life is the life of Jesus flowing through you. It is a state of being "full" of His peace, joy, and presence, regardless of your external situation. It’s knowing that you have a superior inheritance that cannot be canceled or stolen.

Want to dive deeper into living a life fueled by grace instead of fear?

Check out the Followed by Mercy podcast for more honest conversations about faith, or join us over at Alignment Ministries for practical mentorship. You can also follow my journey on YouTube @waustingardner .

#Grace #TrueConfidence #FaithOverFear #AustinGardner #Unshakable

Leadership in Mercy: Why the Best Leaders Trust God First

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:30:13 GMT

A reflection on why God delights more in our trust than in our strength.

Most leadership seminars focus on sharpening your skills, expanding your network, or increasing your bottom line. While those things have their place, they often miss the most vital component of spiritual leadership. Specifically, we tend to rely on our own strength and the resources we can see. We look at our connections, our bank accounts, and our "weapons" of influence to find security. However, if you want to lead with true impact, you must learn the secret of having Hope in His Mercy .

In my five decades of ministry, I have seen leaders rise and fall based on what they trusted. I have been there myself, staring at a mountain of problems and wondering if my "strength" was enough.

Consequently, I discovered that God isn’t looking for the most powerful man in the room. He is looking for the man who rests in His goodness. When we shift our focus from our performance to His grace, everything changes.

The Temptation of Human Strength

We live in a world that rewards the strong. In the business world, we admire the "self-made" individual. In the ministry world, we often applaud the person with the largest platform or the most impressive resume. Nevertheless, the Bible gives us a very different standard for what pleases the Father.

Psalm 147:10 "He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man."

Think about that for a moment. In the days this was written, the horse represented military might, and the "legs of a man" represented human speed and endurance. For a leader, these are the tools of the trade. They are the connections, the strategic plans, and the sheer grit we use to get things done. Furthermore, we often think that if we just work harder or plan better, God will be more pleased with us.

But the truth is that God isn't impressed by our "legs." He isn't swayed by how fast we run or how much we can carry on our own. Specifically, when we rely on our own strength, we are actually moving away from the very source of our power. We become legalistic, thinking that our success is a result of our perfect performance. I’ve lived through that pressure, and let me tell you, it is a heavy burden to carry.

What Captures the Heart of God?

If God doesn't take pleasure in our strength, what does He take pleasure in? The very next verse gives us the answer, and it is the foundation of everything we teach at Alignment Ministries.

Psalm 147:11 "The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy."

This is the "Big Idea" of spiritual leadership. God’s pleasure is found in those who have Hope in His Mercy . This isn't a hope that says, "I hope God is nice to me today." This is a settled confidence in His character. It is a decision to stop looking at our own failures or our own "strength" and start looking at His finished work.

Consequently, a leader who trusts in mercy is free. You are free from the need to look perfect. You are free from the fear of failure. Specifically, you understand that your position before God is based on His love, not your latest achievement. This is why I often say that the Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear or performance.

Followed By Mercy
“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

When you lead from this place, people notice. They don't see a man trying to prove something; they see a man held by Grace. This is the essence of The Big Leap of Faith . It is the move from "Am I doing enough?" to "He has already done it all."

Leading Through the Valley

I’ve had my share of valleys. From church planting in the Andes mountains to facing Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and a brutal battle with COVID, I have been at the end of my own strength. During those times, my "legs" were gone. I couldn't run. I couldn't perform. Meanwhile, it was in those moments of absolute weakness that I realized God's mercy was enough.

As a leader, you will face seasons where your connections fail, and your bank account is empty. Therefore, you must decide where your hope lies. If your hope is in your mercy-seat: the place where God meets you in your mess: you will not be shaken.

Followed By Mercy
“Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention.”

God’s mercy isn't a backup plan. It’s not something He gives you because He’s "disappointed" but feels obligated to help. Rather, His mercy is an active, pursuing force. It is running toward you right now, even in your leadership struggles. When you stop trying to earn His favor, you finally have the room to experience it.

The Shift from Performance to Presence

So, how do we actually implement this in our daily leadership? It begins with a shift in our thinking. Instead of starting your day with a list of things you must do to please God, start by resting in the fact that you are already loved.

Expose the Legalism: Whenever you feel the "pressure" to perform for God’s love, call it what it is. It is fear.
Focus on the Father: Look at Jesus. He is the perfect revelation of the Father. He didn't come to demand more from you; He came to give everything for you.
Lead with Vulnerability: Don't be afraid to show your team that you are a man who needs mercy. Authenticity is more attractive than "perfection" anyway.

Specifically, when we lead with Hope in His Mercy , we create an environment where others can grow. If the leader is resting in grace, the team will feel safe enough to take risks. If the leader is constantly striving and stressed, the team will live in fear of making a mistake. Consequently, your personal relationship with God’s mercy dictates the culture of your entire ministry.

Finding Rest in the Finished Work

The best leaders I know aren't the ones who never fail. They are the ones who know exactly where to go when they do. They don't hide their mess; they bring it to the "Meeting Place" where mercy covers it all.

Followed By Mercy
“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first

If you are tired today, it might be because you’ve been relying on the "legs of a man." You’ve been trying to outrun your problems or outwork your insecurities. However, God is inviting you to a better way. He takes pleasure in your trust. He delights in your dependence.

Stop looking at what you lack and start looking at what He provides. You are not being graded on your leadership today. You are being held by a Father who is fundamentally good and unconditionally loving.

For more on this journey of resting in His goodness, I invite you to read the full pillar article: Hope in His Mercy: The Best First Resort .

FAQ: Leadership and Mercy

Does trusting in mercy mean I don't have to work hard as a leader?

Not at all. It means your work flows from a different source. Instead of working to get love and acceptance, you work because you already have it, which actually gives you more energy and joy.

How do I stop the cycle of performance-based leadership?

It starts with renewing your mind daily with the truth of the New Covenant. Remind yourself that God’s pleasure in you is tied to Christ’s finished work, not your daily checklist.

Why is Psalm 147:11 so important for ministry leaders?

Because it reminds us that our greatest "asset" isn't our skill set, but our hope in God's character. It shifts our focus from our limited resources to His limitless grace.

Primary CTA: If this spoke to you, dive deeper into this life-changing truth by reading our cornerstone article: Hope in His Mercy .

Alignment Ministries: Stay connected with additional leadership resources and pastoral insights .

#Grace #Mercy #Leadership #AustinGardner #FaithBasedDevelopment

Dreamer Preparation: What God Builds in You Before He Brings the Dream (Genesis 37:5)

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:00:19 GMT

Understanding the painful preparation behind every God-given dream.

Genesis 37:5 "And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more."

Joseph got his dream at seventeen. He wouldn't step into it until he was thirty.

That's thirteen years of preparation. Thirteen years of God building something in Joseph that the dream required, but the boy didn't yet possess.

The dream came early. The readiness came later.

And here's what most of us miss: God wasn't stalling. He was building.

The pit, the slave market, Potiphar's house, the false accusation, the prison cell: none of it was wasted. All of it was curriculum. God was making a man who could carry the weight of what He'd already promised.

If God has given you a dream, He's also committed to preparing you for it. And the preparation? It might just hurt more than the dream itself ever could.

Love in Spite of Rejection

Joseph's brothers hated him. They couldn't even speak peaceably to him. When he showed up in the field, they plotted to kill him.

But years later, when they stood trembling before him in Egypt, Joseph wept. He forgave them. He provided for them. He didn't punish them: he loved them.

That kind of love doesn't just show up. It's forged in the furnace of rejection.

Joseph learned to love his brothers while they hated him. He learned to serve Potiphar while falsely imprisoned. He learned to bless the baker and the butler in the dungeon, even when they forgot him.

God uses rejection to teach you how to love without requiring reciprocation.

If you're in a season where people have turned on you, misunderstood you, or abandoned you, you're not off course. You're in the classroom. God is teaching you to love like He does: without conditions, without keeping score, without bitterness taking root.

The dream requires a heart that can bless those who curse you. And God will take as long as necessary to build that in you.

Positive Attitude in the Storm

From the slave market to Potiphar's house to the dungeon, Joseph's circumstances kept getting worse.

But his attitude never soured.

Genesis 39:2-3 "And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand."

Even as a slave, Joseph prospered. Even in prison, he found favor. Not because his situation was good, but because his heart stayed right.

You can't control what happens to you. But you can control what happens in you.

Joseph didn't whine. He didn't complain. He didn't throw pity parties in the pit. He just kept trusting God and doing the next right thing in front of him.

A positive attitude in crisis isn't denial: it's faith. It's choosing to believe that God is still good even when life is bad. It's refusing to let bitterness poison the soil where your dream is supposed to grow.

Your attitude in the dark determines what kind of leader you'll be in the light.

Patience: The Long, Slow Work of Waiting

Joseph waited two extra years in prison after the butler forgot him. Two years of hoping the door would open. Two years of wondering if God had forgotten the dream.

But God hadn't forgotten. He was right on time.

1 Peter 5:6 "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time."

God doesn't operate on your timeline. He operates on His. And His timing is always redemptive, always purposeful, always perfect.

Patience isn't passive. It's active trust. It's saying, "God, I don't understand why it's taking this long, but I'm going to keep walking with You anyway."

The preparation season teaches you to wait without wavering. To trust without seeing. To believe God is working even when it feels like nothing is happening.

The dream doesn't die in the delay. It matures.

Learn Where You Are

Joseph didn't waste his time in Potiphar's house daydreaming about Egypt's throne. He learned administration. He learned how to manage resources, handle people, and oversee complex operations.

When Potiphar put him in charge, Joseph ran that household like a CEO. When he landed in prison, he did the same thing. He learned the systems. He mastered the details. He became excellent right where he was.

And when Pharaoh finally called him up, Joseph was ready. He didn't have to learn leadership on the throne: he'd already been practicing it in prison.

God is making you a person of excellence in the waiting room.

Don't despise where you are. Don't coast through it. Don't just survive it. Learn from it. Master it. Let God use it to build skills, character, and wisdom you'll need when the dream finally unfolds.

Your current assignment is not a distraction from your calling. It's preparation for it.

Work Ethic: No Excuses, No Complaining

Joseph could have played the victim card. He had every reason to slack off, give up, or phone it in.

But he didn't.

Colossians 3:23 "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."

Joseph worked as if God were his boss: because He was.

He didn't work hard to impress Potiphar. He didn't serve well to earn the prison warden's favor. He worked with excellence because that's who God made him to be.

Your work ethic in obscurity reveals your character in visibility.

If you cut corners now, you'll cut corners later. If you complain now, you'll complain then. If you make excuses for the small things, you'll make excuses for the big things.

God is watching how you handle what nobody else sees. And He's building a foundation that can hold the weight of the dream.

Intimacy With God: Loneliness as a Bridge

Joseph spent years alone. Away from family. Separated from friends. Misunderstood. Forgotten.

But he wasn't alone.

The Lord was with Joseph.

The pit could have driven him away from God. Instead, it drove him toward God. The loneliness became a bridge to intimacy. The silence became a sanctuary.

When you can't turn to people, you turn to God. And that's where you meet Him in a way you never could in the crowd.

Isaiah 26:3 "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."

Joseph learned to keep his mind on God. He learned to trust Him when nothing made sense. He learned that God's presence was more valuable than human applause.

If you're in a lonely season, don't waste it. Let it draw you closer to the One who never leaves. Let it teach you that He's enough: even when nothing else is.

The dream will demand intimacy with God. And God will use isolation to build it in you.

The Death and Resurrection of Your Dream

Here's the hard truth: the dream has to die before it can live.

John 12:24 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit."

Joseph's dream looked dead in the pit. It looked buried in the prison. But it wasn't dead: it was planted.

God has to kill your grip on the dream so He can be the one to bring it to pass. He has to strip away your self-reliance, your timelines, and your control so that when it finally happens, there's no question who did it.

The seed has to die. But death isn't the end: it's the beginning of multiplication.

If your dream feels dead right now, don't panic. God is planting it. And what He's growing will be far greater than anything you could have orchestrated on your own.

Keep Your Mind on Him

Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."

Joseph could have obsessed over the injustice. He could have rehearsed the betrayal. He could have let bitterness consume his thoughts.

But he didn't.

He kept his mind on what was true: God was with him. He kept his thoughts on what was good: God had a plan. He refused to let the pit define his perspective.

Where your mind goes, your life follows.

If you're in a hard season, guard your thought life. Don't let negativity, fear, or bitterness take root. Keep your mind stayed on Him. Trust that He's working even when you can't see it.

The dream isn't just about what you'll do: it's about who you'll become. And God is committed to building that in you, one hard day at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I'm in a "preparation season" or if I've missed God's plan?

If you're still seeking God and walking in obedience, you're not off course. God is faithful to guide you. Preparation seasons often feel like delays, but they're actually divine appointments. Keep doing the next right thing, and trust His timing.

What if I've already given up on my dream?

God specializes in resurrections. If He gave you the dream, it's not too late. Bring your brokenness to Him, ask Him to renew your hope, and start walking in faithfulness today. He's not done with you.

How can I stay positive when everything keeps going wrong?

You don't have to fake positivity: just stay anchored in truth. Remind yourself daily that God is with you, that He's working, and that He's faithful. Let worship, Scripture, and prayer reset your perspective when discouragement hits.

God hasn't forgotten your dream. He's just preparing you to carry it well.

Trust Him in the pit. Serve Him in prison. Keep your heart right in the waiting.

Because when the door finally opens, you'll be ready.

And it'll be worth every hard step it took to get there.

Want to dive deeper into living from God's unconditional love instead of performance? Check out The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are . And if you're walking through a hard season, listen to the Followed By Mercy podcast for encouragement that'll meet you right where you are.

The Fire in Your Bones: When a Calling Won't Let You Quit

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:00:27 GMT

Why the call of God often burns brightest in the darkest seasons.

The Story: When the Dream Becomes a Fire

Joseph had a dream. Actually, he had two. And at seventeen years old, he made the mistake of telling everyone about them, including his brothers, who already hated him.

The dreams said he'd rule. That his family would bow down to him. That God had something big planned.

His brothers threw him into a pit and sold him into slavery.

So much for the dream, right?

But here's what nobody talks about: Joseph couldn't shake it. Even in the pit. Even in Potiphar's house. Even in prison. That dream, that calling, became a fire inside him he couldn't put out.

Genesis 37:19-20 tells us what the brothers said when they saw him coming: "Behold, this dreamer cometh. Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him into some pit, and we will say, Some evil beast hath devoured him: and we shall see what will become of his dreams."

They wanted to kill the dreamer and the dream. But you can't kill what God puts inside a person. You can imprison it. Mock it. Bury it alive. But if it's from God, it burns.

And Joseph? He couldn't quit.

The Point: A Fire You Can't Contain

There's a difference between wanting something and being called to something.

Wanting fades when it gets hard. Calling doesn't.

When God gives you a calling, whether it's to lead, to serve, to teach, to speak, to build a family, to pray for the broken, to mentor the next generation, it doesn't feel like an option. It feels like a necessity.

1 Corinthians 9:16 says it this way: "For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!"

Paul didn't preach to become famous. He preached because he couldn't not preach. The fire wouldn't let him quit.

That's what a real calling does. It burns in your bones. It wakes you up at night. It won't leave you alone. It's not about ego or platform or applause, it's about obedience to the thing God put inside you that refuses to be silent.

The Scripture: God Working in You to Will and Do

Here's the part we forget: the fire isn't something you manufacture. You don't "work up" a calling. God puts it there.

Philippians 2:13 : "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure."

God works in you to create the desire. Then He works through you to accomplish it.

That's not ego. That's not ambition. That's the life of Christ living through a vessel He's chosen for a purpose.

The Christian life isn't you trying harder to be like Jesus; it's Jesus living His life through you. The calling you feel? That's His fire. He's the one who won't let you quit.

And Joseph? He didn't have a "ministry platform." He had a prison cell. But the fire kept burning because it wasn't about where he was, it was about Whose life was in him.

The Test: Is It Ego or Obedience?

Not every desire is a calling. Some of what we call "vision" is just ambition in a church T-shirt.

So how do you know?

1 Timothy 3:1 says this:

"This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work."

The word there is desire. It's noble to want to serve. To lead. To build something for the Kingdom. But notice what it doesn't say: it doesn't say "desire the spotlight."

Here's the self-check:

Am I doing this to be seen, or to serve?
Am I willing to do this work in obscurity if God asks me to?
Does this fire drive me toward faithfulness, or just toward a platform?
Can I wait on God's timing, or do I need it to happen now?

Joseph waited thirteen years between the dream and the palace. Thirteen years of pits and false accusations and forgotten promises. But the fire didn't depend on the timeline. It depended on God's presence.

Jeremiah 20:9 captures it perfectly:

"Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay."

Jeremiah tried to quit. He said, "I'm done talking about God."

But he couldn't stop. The fire wouldn't let him.

That's the sign of a real calling. You try to walk away, and you can't. You try to quit, and the fire just burns hotter.

Everyday Fire: Not Just for the Platform

Here's what we need to hear: calling isn't just for pastors, missionaries, and people with microphones.

The fire in your bones might be to raise your kids with the fear of the Lord. To pray for your neighbors. To show up faithfully at work as a witness. To mentor one young person who's drowning. To love your spouse well when the world says to walk away.

God doesn't need more celebrities. He needs more faithful people who will do right where He's put them, even when no one's watching.

Joseph interpreted dreams in prison. Nobody saw. Nobody clapped. But God saw. And the faithfulness in the dark led to the platform in the light.

The fire isn't about the size of your audience. It's about the size of your obedience.

Living with the Fire

So what do you do when you feel that fire?

1. Stop trying to make it happen. Let God work in you to will and do. Rest in His timing. He's the one who gave you the dream, He'll bring it to pass.

2. Do what's in front of you today. Joseph didn't escape from prison. He interpreted a butler's dream. Do the small, right thing in front of you today and trust God with tomorrow.

3. Don't compare your fire to someone else's platform. Your calling is yours. Run your race. Let them run theirs.

4. Keep the fire pure. Check your heart. Is it about being seen, or about being faithful? Ego dims the fire. Obedience feeds it.

5. Remember: God is with you. The same God who was with Joseph in the pit is with you in yours. And if He's with you, He'll get you where you need to be, in His time, His way.

Romans 8:28 is still true:

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

Even the pit. Even the pain. Even the thirteen-year wait. God's working it all together for His glory and your good.

What's Next?

If you're wrestling with a calling that won't let you go, you're not crazy. You're called. And God's not going to waste the fire He's put in you.

Want more on this? Check out The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are . It'll help you rest in His love while you wait for His plan to unfold.

And if you need someone to walk with you through the waiting, that's what we do at Alignment Ministries . Let's talk.

FAQ

What if I'm not sure my calling is real or just my own ambition?

Ask yourself: Am I willing to do this work in obscurity if that's what God asks? If the answer is yes, it's probably real. If you need the spotlight to feel it's worth it, check your heart.

How long should I wait for God to open a door?

Joseph waited thirteen years. Moses waited forty. Abraham waited twenty-five. God's timeline isn't ours, but He's always faithful. Do what's right in front of you today and trust Him with tomorrow.

What if the calling is costing me everything?

Welcome to the fire. God's callings usually cost more than we expect, but they also produce more than we can imagine. If He called you, He'll sustain you. Keep going.

The Anatomy of a God-Given Dream (and How to Tell It from a Pizza Dream)

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 08:00:21 GMT

Learning to discern whether the dream in your heart came from heaven, your hunger, or your own ambition.

I once knew a young man who woke up convinced God had called him to plant a church in a city he'd never visited. He'd seen it in a dream, vivid, emotional, unforgettable. Within three months, he'd quit his job, moved his family, and burned through his savings. Two years later, he was back home, broke and confused, wondering why God had "let him down."

Here's the thing: God didn't let him down. The dream did. Because not every dream that feels big and spiritual is actually from God.

When God Shows Up in the Night

God has spoken through dreams since the beginning. He warned Abimelech in a dream not to touch Sarah (Genesis 20:3). He met Jacob at Bethel and showed him a ladder reaching into heaven (Genesis 28:12). He spoke to Laban in a dream and told him to back off Jacob (Genesis 31:24).

Dreams were, and still are, one of God's favorite ways to get our attention when our minds are finally quiet.

But here's what most people miss: not every dream is a download from heaven.

Some dreams are just your brain sorting through yesterday's leftovers. Some are the result of stress, pizza, or binge-watching dystopian thrillers before bed. And some, this is harder to admit, come from places we'd rather not acknowledge.

Moses warned Israel about this:

Deuteronomy 13:1-3 "If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, and the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the Lord your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul."

Even dreams that seem accurate can lead you off course if they don't align with God's character and His Word.

The Joseph Test: What His Dream Did (and Didn't) Include

Let's look at Joseph. Seventeen years old. Cocky. Loved by his dad. Hated by his brothers. And then God gave him two dreams that changed everything.

Genesis 37:5-7 "And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more. And he said unto them, Hear, I pray you, this dream which I have dreamed: for, behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and, lo, my sheaf arose, and also stood upright; and, behold, your sheaves stood round about, and made obeisance to my sheaf."

Then he had another one:

Genesis 37:9 "And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it his brethren, and said, Behold, I have dreamed a dream more; and, behold, the sun and the moon and the eleven stars made obeisance to me."

God showed Joseph what. He showed him the end result. He showed him the glory.

But God didn't show him the how, the when, or the cost.

God didn't tell him about the pit. The chains. The false accusation. The prison. The forgotten years. The tears. The loneliness. The slow death of everything he thought his life would be.

That's how God-given dreams usually work. You see the destination. You don't see the road.

How to Tell If It's Really God

So how do you know if the dream you're carrying: the vision, the calling, the "thing" you can't shake, is actually from God? Here are a few tests:

1. Does It Align with Scripture?

God will never contradict Himself. If your "dream" involves lying, cheating, abandoning your family, or doing something that clearly violates His character, it's not from Him. Full stop.

2. Is It Confirmed by Circumstances?

God doesn't just drop dreams on you and leave you to figure it out alone. Over time, He confirms. Doors open. People show up. Provision appears. Not instantly, but eventually.

Joseph's dream was confirmed when Pharaoh had a dream no one else could interpret. Suddenly, the kid rotting in prison was standing in front of the most powerful man in the world.

3. Does It Produce Good Fruit Over Time?

Matthew 7:16 says, "Ye shall know them by their fruits."

Dreams from God produce patience, peace, endurance, and dependence on Him: even when they're hard. Dreams from your flesh produce anxiety, pride, comparison, and burnout. Dreams from the enemy produce fear, shame, and destruction.

4. Does It Require You to Trust God More?

If the dream you're carrying can be accomplished in your own strength, it's probably not big enough to be God's. His dreams are always too big for you. That's the point. He wants you dependent. He wants you desperately. He wants you to know it was Him, not you.

The Fire That Won't Go Out

The prophet Jeremiah tried to quit. He was tired, beaten up, mocked, and rejected. He decided he was done speaking for God. But then he said this:

Jeremiah 20:9 "Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay."

That's what a God-given dream feels like. You can't shake it. You can try to ignore it, outrun it, or bury it: but it keeps burning. It's not just an idea. It's a fire in your bones. It's Christ in you, the hope of glory, pressing outward into the world.

Paul said it this way:

1 Corinthians 9:16 "For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!"

Paul couldn't not preach. Joseph couldn't not dream. Moses couldn't not go back to Egypt.

When God calls you, He doesn't just give you a nice idea. He gives you a burden. A weight. A calling so strong that you'd rather die trying than live in disobedience.

What to Do While You Wait

If you're in the pit right now: if you've got a dream from God but your life looks nothing like you thought it would: here's what you need to know:

God is with you.

Not waiting for you. Not disappointed in you. Not checking His watch, wondering when you'll finally get it together.

He's with you. In the pit. In the prison. In the process.

Philippians 2:13 says: "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure."

The dream isn't just from Him. He's the One working it out in you and through you. You're not carrying this alone. Christ is living this out in you.

So stop trying to force it. Stop panicking. Stop comparing your timeline to someone else's highlight reel.

Just do what's in front of you today. Serve well. Love people. Stay faithful in the small things. Trust that the God who gave you the dream is the same God who will bring it to pass: in His time, in His way, for His glory.

You're not behind. You're not forgotten. You're not wasting your life.

You're in process. And it's in the process that God does His best work.

FAQ: Common Questions About God-Given Dreams

How do I know if my dream is from God or just my own desire?

God-given dreams produce peace, patience, and dependence on Him: even when they're hard. If your dream makes you anxious, controlling, or constantly comparing yourself to others, it's probably rooted in flesh. Ask God to clarify. He's not afraid of honest questions.

What if I'm not sure I heard God right?

That's okay. Joseph didn't understand his dream fully either. Stay in the Word. Stay humble. Stay obedient to what's in front of you today. God will make it clear in His time.

How long should I wait before giving up on a dream?

If it's truly from God, you won't be able to give up. It'll burn in your bones like Jeremiah said. But if you're forcing something that isn't producing fruit, ask God if it's time to let it go. Sometimes what we thought was His dream was just our interpretation.

Father, thank You that You speak. Thank You that You still give dreams, visions, and callings. Help us discern Your voice from all the noise. Give us the patience to wait. Give us the courage to obey. And remind us that You're not just the God who calls: You're the God who completes. In Jesus' name, amen.

If you're wrestling with whether God has called you to something bigger, or if you're stuck in the waiting and need someone to walk with you, I'd love to help. I've spent 50+ years in ministry, 20 of those as a missionary in Peru, and I've learned a few things about trusting God in the dark. Check out my coaching and mentoring resources at waustingardner.com , or dive deeper into the grace-centered life at The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are .

You're not alone in this. And the dream God gave you? It's not dead. It's just being refined.

Don't Kill the Dream: Why We Attack What We Feel We Can't Achieve

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 05:00:01 GMT

When someone else’s vision exposes the dreams we buried.

The Real Target

Joseph's brothers had plenty of reasons to resent him. He was their father's favorite. He wore that ridiculous coat. He'd tattled on them. But when they finally decided to kill him, they revealed what really bothered them.

Genesis 37:19-20 "And they said one to another, Behold, this dreamer cometh. Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him into some pit, and we will say, Some evil beast hath devoured him: and we shall see what will become of his dreams."

Did you catch that? "We shall see what will become of his dreams."

They weren't just killing their brother. They were killing the dreamer. And they weren't just killing the dreamer; they wanted to kill the dream.

When Dreams Feel Like Accusations

Here's what happens when someone around you carries a God-sized dream: it exposes the size of yours. Joseph's dream didn't just bother his brothers because it put him in charge. It bothered them because it forced them to face what they weren't dreaming about.

His vision made their lack of vision unbearable.

The brothers could have asked, "What's God saying to our family?" Instead, they asked, "How do we make this uncomfortable feeling go away?"

That's the anatomy of dream-killing. When we feel inadequate to live out something big, we attack it in others so we don't have to face our own emptiness. We can't stand the mirror.

It's easier to kill the dream than to admit we've stopped dreaming.

The Great Commission and the Dream Killers

I've watched this play out in ministry for over 50 years. Many sincere men and women of God feel they've failed at the Great Commission. They look at the billions who've never heard the gospel. They see their own small sphere of influence. They wonder if they've made any difference at all.

And then they meet someone who talks about world evangelism with fire in their bones. Someone who believes God can still reach the unreached. Someone who dreams about launching into places no one else will go.

And something inside them reacts.

Not with encouragement. With resistance.

They start saying things like: "That's not realistic." "You don't understand how hard it really is." "You're being naive." "That ship has sailed." "Those days are over."

They're not correcting bad theology. They're killing the dream because if the dream is still alive in someone else, it means they have to face why it died in them.

Matthew 28:19-20 "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world."

That commission hasn't been revoked. It hasn't been updated. It hasn't been replaced with "Go therefore and manage your local programs comfortably."

But if we feel we've failed at it, we'll do everything we can to make sure no one else tries too hard either.

Why We Kill What We Can't Achieve

Dream-killing is a defense mechanism. It protects us from three painful truths:

1. We've settled.
At some point, we stopped believing God could do the impossible through us. We traded the adventure for safety. We downsized our expectations to match our effort.

2. We're afraid.
The cost of a big dream is high. Sacrifice. Risk. Uncertainty. Criticism. If we kill others' dreams, we don't have to face our own fear.

3. We've lost intimacy with God.
Dreams come from time with the Dream Giver. When we drift from Him, the dreams fade. And when someone else's dream reminds us of that distance, we lash out.

Joseph's brothers saw their own emptiness reflected in his vision. They chose murder over repentance.

Don't Kill the Dream, Learn to Live It

Here's the hard truth: If you feel inadequate for the Great Commission, that's actually the starting point for obedience, not the disqualification.

2 Corinthians 3:5 "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God."

God never asked you to be sufficient. He asked you to be available.

You don't have to kill someone else's dream of world evangelism because you feel small. You can repent of your smallness and ask God to stretch you again.

You don't have to tear down the dreamer because you've stopped dreaming. You can ask God to breathe life back into your own vision.

You don't have to sabotage the next generation because your generation didn't finish the job. You can cheer them on and support them as they run further than you did.

What Living the Dream Actually Looks Like

Living the dream doesn't mean you become a famous evangelist. It means you stop killing the mission in your own heart and in the hearts of others.

It means you:

Pray for the unreached instead of dismissing them as someone else's problem.
Give sacrificially to support those who are going where you can't.
Encourage the dreamers, rather than raining on their parade with your cynicism.
Speak life over the next generation instead of rehearsing all the reasons it won't work.
Steward your corner of the mission field: whether that's your neighborhood, your workplace, or your family, with Kingdom urgency.

The Great Commission isn't just for missionaries. It's for every believer. And it doesn't require you to be great. It requires you to serve a great God.

Philippians 2:13 "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure."

He's the one working. You're just the vessel. Stop trying to kill the dream because you don't feel big enough to carry it. Let Him carry it through you.

The Takeaway

Joseph's brothers thought they could kill the dream by killing the dreamer. They were wrong. God raised Joseph up, saved a nation, and fulfilled every word He spoke.

The dream didn't need Joseph's brothers' approval. It needed Joseph's obedience.

The Great Commission doesn't need your perfection. It needs your participation.

Don't kill the dream of world evangelism because you feel like you've failed. Repent. Get back up. Ask God to reignite the fire. And spend the rest of your days cheering on every dreamer who still believes God can do the impossible.

God's not done. The mission isn't over. And He's still looking for people who will carry the dream: no matter the cost.

If you're wrestling with inadequacy, burnout, or the weight of feeling like you've fallen short, I want to invite you to read The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are . You're not disqualified. You're positioned for mercy.

FAQ

What if I really have failed at the Great Commission?

Failure isn't final with God. If you've drifted, repent and ask Him to restore the dream. He's the God of second chances: and third, and fourth. Your past doesn't disqualify you from future obedience.

How can I support world evangelism if I can't go myself?

Pray intentionally for unreached people groups. Give sacrificially to missionaries and mission organizations. Mentor and encourage those preparing to go. Your role in the mission is vital, even if you never board a plane.

Why do I feel so resistant when others talk about big ministry dreams?

Resistance often signals something unresolved in your own heart: fear, guilt, or a fading vision. Ask God to show you what's really behind the pushback, and let Him heal it. Don't let your pain kill someone else's calling.

Handling the Unexpected: When the Dream Meets the Pit

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:00:13 GMT

Faith, character, and hope when life takes a turn you never planned.

Life doesn't always turn out as we expected.

Actually, it hardly ever does.

You dream big. You pray hard. You believe God for something wonderful. And then, without warning, the rug gets pulled out from under you. The job falls through. The relationship shatters. The diagnosis comes. The betrayal cuts deep.

Suddenly, you're standing in a pit you never saw coming.

Joseph knew that feeling.

He had literal dreams from God that showed him ruling and leading. His future looked bright. But his brothers had other plans. They threw him into a pit, sold him to slave traders, and shipped him off to Egypt. Everything changed overnight.

In Genesis 39, Joseph lands in the house of Potiphar, an Egyptian military captain. He's a slave now. Far from home. Far from his father. Far from everything he knew. And just when things start to improve, he gets falsely accused by Potiphar's wife and thrown into prison.

Dream to pit to promotion to prison.

That's not the path anyone would choose.

But here's what I've learned in over fifty years of ministry: Your personal and spiritual growth will come from how you learn to deal with the unexpected.

When God's Plan Looks Nothing Like Your Plan

Here's the thing about Joseph's story: he had no idea what God was really doing.

He didn't know he'd one day rule Egypt. He didn't know he'd save his family from famine. He didn't know that the pit, the false accusation, and the prison were all part of a bigger plan.

All Joseph could do was deal with what was in front of him.

Sound familiar?

You can't see the end of your story either. You don't know how God will use this season. You just know it hurts. You just know it's not what you planned.

But listen, God has an overriding plan that will happen. Even when you can't see it. Even when it makes no sense.

Joseph shows us how to handle the unexpected without losing our faith, our character, or our hope.

Stay Close to God When Life Falls Apart

Genesis 39:2 says this: "And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian."

Did you catch that? The Lord was with Joseph.

Not just when things were good. Not just when he was home with his father, wearing that special coat. The Lord was with him in slavery. In disappointment. In the unexpected.

And it showed.

Genesis 39:3 tells us: "And his master saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand."

Even Potiphar could see it. Joseph's relationship with God was so real, so genuine, that it radiated through his circumstances.

That's the first key to handling the unexpected: Keep your relationship with God alive.

I know it's hard. When life turns upside down, it's natural to feel discouraged. To doubt. To question why God allowed this. Joseph probably felt all of that. He'd been the favored son. He'd had dreams of greatness. Now he's scrubbing floors in a foreign land.

But he didn't let the discouragement control him.

David faced the same battle. In 1 Samuel 30:6, when everything was falling apart, the Bible says David "encouraged himself in the Lord his God." He remembered God's promises. He trusted when he was afraid. He committed his life into God's hands.

Psalm 37:3-6 says: "Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."

That's how you survive the unexpected, by staying close to God even when it doesn't make sense.

Keep a Right Attitude No Matter Where You Land

Joseph didn't just survive slavery. He prospered in it.

That's wild when you think about it.

Genesis 39:4 says Joseph "found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand."

Joseph could have been bitter. He could have done sloppy work. He could have sat around complaining about how unfair life was.

But he didn't.

He showed up. He worked hard. He was responsible. He was respectful. He didn't need constant supervision. He gave himself fully to the task in front of him, even though it wasn't the task he dreamed of.

Proverbs 6:6-11 says: "Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest."

Joseph didn't wait for someone to tell him what to do. He didn't take advantage of his master's trust. He served with excellence.

Here's a truth I've learned the hard way: Your attitude in the unexpected reveals who you really are.

When life is good, it's easy to be cheerful. But when the bottom falls out? That's when your character shows.

Joseph's "be" level was so strong that even a storm didn't change who he was. He didn't need perfect circumstances to be a person of integrity.

And that's what led to blessing, even in the most unexpected places.

Show Character When Temptation Knocks

Then came another unexpected twist.

Potiphar's wife tried to seduce Joseph. Day after day, she pressured him. And one day, she grabbed him and demanded he sleep with her.

Joseph's response is stunning.

Genesis 39:9 records his words: "How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?"

Notice he didn't say, "How can I sin against Potiphar?" He said, "How can I sin against God?"

Joseph understood something crucial: Our sin is always ultimately against God.

When life turns upside down, we're tempted to rationalize. "I deserve this." "I've been through so much." "God owes me." "No one will know."

But Joseph refused to compromise. Even when no one was looking. Even when he'd been treated unfairly. Even when he could have justified it.

Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us: "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."

Joseph's character was so strong that he literally ran from temptation. And what happened? He got falsely accused and thrown into prison.

Sometimes doing the right thing makes life harder, not easier.

But Joseph kept his character intact. And that mattered more than comfort.

Trust God Is Working Even When You Can't See It

Here's where Joseph's story gets really interesting.

The Bible doesn't tell us Joseph was sitting in prison thinking, "Oh, I know God's working everything out." It doesn't say he had perfect peace or full understanding.

But the evidence of his trust is everywhere.

Genesis 39:21 says: "But the Lord was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison."

Even in prison, especially in prison, God was with him.

See, Joseph couldn't see what we can see. He didn't know the end of the story. He didn't know that in a few short years, he'd be second-in-command in Egypt, saving nations from famine.

All he knew was what was in front of him: a pit, then slavery, then false accusation, then prison.

But God was positioning him the whole time.

Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

The unexpected in your life? God's not surprised by it. He's not scrambling to fix it. He's not disappointed in you.

He's positioning you.

The pit you're in right now might be preparing you for something you can't even imagine yet. The hardship that feels like defeat might be the exact training ground you need for the calling God has on your life.

You won't realize it was God's plan until the story is over. But you can trust Him now.

For more on learning to trust God's heart even when His plans don't make sense, check out my article The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are .

What Do You Do Now?

So here you are. Life threw you a curveball. The unexpected knocked you flat. The dream met the pit, and you're trying to figure out what's next.

Here's what Joseph shows us:

Stay close to God. Don't let discouragement steal your relationship with Him. Encourage yourself in the Lord. Trust Him even when you're afraid.

Keep the right attitude. Show up. Work hard. Be faithful in the small things. Your circumstances don't define your character: your choices do.

Refuse to compromise. Do right even when it costs you. Your integrity matters more than your comfort.

Trust God is working. You can't see the whole picture. But God can. And He's never wasted a single moment of your pain. He's positioning you for something greater.

The unexpected isn't the end of your story. It's just a chapter.

And God writes really good endings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do when I feel like God has abandoned me in hard times?

Remember Joseph: the Lord was with him in slavery and in prison, not just in the good times. God's presence isn't dependent on your circumstances. Draw close to Him through prayer, Scripture, and worship. He hasn't left you. He's positioning you.

How can I keep a good attitude when everything is going wrong?

Focus on what you can control: your response, your character, your faithfulness. Serve where you are with excellence, even if it's not where you want to be. Joseph prospered as a slave because he chose to honor God in the unexpected.

Why does doing the right thing sometimes make life harder?

Because character is tested in pressure, not comfort. Joseph fled temptation and ended up in prison, but his integrity kept him close to God and prepared him for future leadership. God sees your faithfulness even when others don't.

Ready to dive deeper into God's grace and find hope in the hard seasons? Visit waustingardner.com to explore more biblical encouragement, or listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast , where we talk about real faith for real life.

You're not alone in the unexpected. And this isn't the end of your story.

Watching for God's Goodness in the Dark

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:00:01 GMT

Why God’s presence often shows up in the darkest seasons of life.

If you were making a list of reasons to believe God had abandoned you, Joseph could have filled a page.

His brothers sold him. He ended up in chains. He worked hard, stayed faithful, and got falsely accused of assault. Then he landed in an Egyptian prison with no trial, no timeline, and no hope of getting out.

If anyone had permission to think God wasn't paying attention, it was Joseph.

But here's what stopped me in my tracks when I read Genesis 39 again recently: God never left . Not when Joseph was thrown in the pit. Not when he was sold. Not when he was lied about. And not when the prison door slammed shut.

The Line That Changes Everything

Genesis 39:21 says something that shouldn't make sense given the circumstances: "But the Lord was with Joseph, and shewed him mercy, and gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison."

Read that again. Joseph was in prison , and God was with him . God showed him mercy. God gave him favor, not freedom, but favor. Not rescue, but relationship.

That one verse flips the whole script on what it means to be blessed.

I think most of us believe God is with us when things are going well. When the job works out. When the health improves. When the relationship gets restored. We measure God's presence by our circumstances.

But Joseph teaches us something different. You don't have to be winning for God to be with you.

Watching for God in the Small Stuff

Here's what I love about Joseph: he didn't just survive, he watched for God's goodness even in prison.

He noticed that the jailer trusted him. He saw that his work was being blessed. He recognized God's hand in the minor details of his day-to-day life. He didn't wait for the prison doors to open before he believed God was good. He saw God's goodness in the prison .

That's a skill most of us don't have.

We're waiting for the big miracle. The breakthrough moment. The turning point. And we miss the hundred small ways God is showing up in the middle of the mess.

Psalm 37:23 reminds us: "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way."

Not just the big moments. The steps . The daily details. The conversations. The small decisions. The little opportunities.

Joseph kept his eyes open. He didn't let bitterness blind him. He didn't let disappointment deafen him to God's voice. He stayed alert to the ways God was still moving, even when everything looked like failure.

The Trap of Fatalistic Thinking

I've spent 50+ years in ministry, and I've watched many good people fall into what I call the fatalistic trap. It's the mindset that says, Things just happen. God isn't that interested. He's too big to care about the details of my life.

It's subtle. It creeps in slowly. You don't wake up one day and decide God doesn't care. You just stop looking for Him. You stop expecting Him to show up in the ordinary moments.

You start thinking, Well, this is just how it is. I'm stuck. Nothing's going to change.

And when you think that way, you miss Him.

Joseph could have lived there. He had every reason to believe God had forgotten him. But he didn't. He kept believing. He kept honoring God. He kept watching for God's hand in his life.

Proverbs 3:5-6 says it like this: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

Notice the phrase: "In all thy ways." Not just the big ways. Not just the good days. All of them. The prison days. The unjust days. The confusing days.

Joseph acknowledged God in all his ways. And because he did, he saw God's goodness even in the dark.

How Do You Deal With What's Going On?

So let me ask you what I've been asking myself: How do you deal with what's happening in your life right now?

Do you complain, or do you watch for God's blessing?

Do you believe God is involved in the small things, or do you think He's too busy for that?

Do you trust that He's working even when you can't see it, or have you slipped into thinking things just happen?

I'm not saying we pretend everything is fine when it's not. Joseph didn't do that. He was in prison. That was real. The injustice was real. The pain was real.

But Joseph didn't let the pain write the whole story. He made room for God to be at work even in the worst chapter of his life.

And here's what I've learned after surviving Stage 4 cancer, COVID, and more heartbreak than I thought I could carry: God is always at work, even when we can't see the outcome yet.

You can trust Him in the waiting. You can believe He's good even when life isn't. You can watch for His presence in the prison just like Joseph did.

It's Time to Trust and Believe in God

I want you to know something today: God has not forgotten you.

You may feel like Joseph: sold out, falsely accused, stuck in a place you didn't choose. But God is with you. He's in the details. He's working in ways you can't see yet.

Your job isn't to figure it all out. Your job is to keep watching. Keep believing. Keep honoring Him, even when it doesn't make sense.

Because the story isn't over. God isn't done. And the same God who was with Joseph in prison is with you right now.

If you've been struggling to see God's goodness lately, I want to encourage you to read my article The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are . It's a reminder that God's love for you isn't based on your performance: it's based on His character. And that changes everything.

If this message encouraged you today, I'd love for you to visit waustingardner.com and explore more resources on living in God's grace. You can also listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast , where we talk about faith, resilience, and the goodness of God even in hard times.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if God is with me when everything is going wrong?

God's presence isn't measured by your circumstances. Joseph was in prison, yet Genesis 39:21 says the Lord was with him. Look for God's hand in the small things: favor, peace, strength to keep going. His presence is often most real in the darkest places.

What if I can't see any blessings in my situation right now?

Ask God to open your eyes. Sometimes bitterness, disappointment, or exhaustion clouds our vision. Joseph kept watching for God's goodness even in slavery and prison. Start by acknowledging that God is with you, even if you can't yet see the full picture.

Is it wrong to be honest about how hard things are?

Not at all. Joseph's story doesn't pretend the pain wasn't real. He was betrayed, falsely accused, and imprisoned. But he didn't let the pain define the whole story. You can be honest about your struggle and still trust that God is at work. Honesty and faith aren't opposites; they work together.

Investing in Others While You Wait: Joseph's Way Through Frustration (Genesis 40)

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:45:00 GMT

Why the way you wait may shape the door God opens next.

I've spent enough years in ministry to know this: waiting is hard. And waiting while you're hurting? That's brutal.

Joseph knew this better than most of us ever will. He'd been betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused of a crime he didn't commit, and thrown into prison. And then he waited. Two full years he sat in that prison cell after the cupbearer forgot him.

But here's what gets me about Joseph: he didn't waste those years. He invested in others while he waited.

The Prison Cell That Changed Everything

Genesis 40 opens with Joseph still in prison. He's the overseer now, which sounds better than it was. He's still a prisoner. He's still stuck. He's still waiting for God to do something.

Then two new prisoners show up, Pharaoh's cupbearer and his baker. Both men had dreams that troubled them, and no one could interpret their meaning.

Genesis 40:6-8 "And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they were sad. And he asked Pharaoh's officers that were with him in the ward of his lord's house, saying, Wherefore look ye so sadly today? And they said unto him, We have dreamed a dream, and there is no interpreter of it. And Joseph said unto them, Do not interpretations belong to God? tell me them, I pray you."

Notice what Joseph did. He noticed. He asked. He cared.

Men who are consumed by anger and bitterness often don't take an interest in others' personal problems. But Joseph did. He could have been focused entirely on his own injustice, and he would have had every right to be. Instead, he looked at these two men and saw their sadness.

That's character under pressure.

When You Keep Serving in the Waiting

Here's the thing about Joseph: he kept his walk with God even when God seemed silent. He kept serving where he was, even though he wanted to be somewhere else. He met the needs of others even when his own needs weren't being met.

That's not natural. That's supernatural.

Philippians 2:4 "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."

Joseph could have spent those two years nursing his wounds. He could have rehearsed the injustice over and over. He could have grown bitter and hard. Instead, he invested in the lives of two men who couldn't do a single thing for him.

Well, that's not entirely true. The cupbearer could have done something for him. Joseph even asked him to remember him to Pharaoh. But the cupbearer forgot. For two more years, Joseph sat in that prison while the man he'd helped lived free.

That had to hurt.

But Joseph didn't quit serving. He didn't quit believing. He didn't quit trusting God.

What Frustration Reveals About Us

I think frustration has a way of showing us who we really are. When things aren't going our way, when we're stuck in a place we don't want to be, when we've been forgotten or overlooked: that's when our character shows.

Joseph's character showed up strong. He didn't become self-absorbed. He didn't lose his concern for others. He didn't stop using his gifts to bless people.

And here's what I've learned after 50+ years of ministry: God was preparing Joseph in the waiting. Every day in that prison was part of God's plan. Joseph couldn't see it. He had no idea he'd one day stand before Pharaoh and save a nation from famine. He just knew God was with him, and that was enough to keep him faithful.

Have you ever thought about the truth that God is preparing you right now? Whatever you're waiting for: a new job, a restored relationship, a breakthrough, an answer to prayer: God is using this season to shape you. Don't waste it.

The Opening That Only You Can Fill

Here's what I want you to hear: an opening is coming that only you can fill. God has a plan for your life that's bigger than this moment. But the way you wait matters.

1 Peter 5:6 "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time."

Joseph humbled himself. He served. He trusted. And in God's perfect timing, he was promoted from the pit to the palace. But even before that promotion came, Joseph was prospering because God was with him.

That's the key. Prosperity isn't about your circumstances. It's about God's presence. Joseph had God in prison, and that made all the difference.

Do Right Where You Are

I know some of you reading this feel stuck. You feel forgotten. You feel like you've been doing right, and it hasn't mattered. Maybe you've been falsely accused like Joseph. Maybe you're serving faithfully, and nobody notices. Maybe you're waiting for God to open a door, and it feels like He's taking forever.

Keep doing right anyway. Keep serving where you are. Keep investing in others even when your own needs aren't met. Trust that God is preparing you for something bigger than you can see right now.

Psalm 75:6-7 "For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another."

Your promotion isn't coming from a person. It's coming from God. And when He's ready to move you, nothing can stop it. Until then, just do right and do your best where you are.

Don't quit in the waiting. An opening is coming that only you can fill.

A Few Questions to Think About

Are you serving others even while you're waiting for your own breakthrough?

Joseph didn't wait until his life was fixed before he started caring about other people's problems. He invested in others right where he was. Are you doing the same?

Have you lost sight of your daily bread while worrying about tomorrow?

God was blessing Joseph every single day in that prison. Joseph had favor with the jailer. He had responsibility. He had purpose. Don't miss what God is doing today because you're so focused on what hasn't happened yet.

What's your attitude revealing about your walk with God?

Joseph's attitude in the waiting revealed that his relationship with God was real. He wasn't serving God just to get something from Him. He was serving God because he loved Him. What does your attitude in the waiting say about your walk with God?

If you're in a season of waiting and you need encouragement, I'd love to walk alongside you. You can find more grace-centered truth at waustingardner.com , and I'd encourage you to read The Big Leap of Faith : it's all about believing God loves you exactly as you are, not just when everything's going right.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long did Joseph wait in prison after helping the cupbearer?

Joseph waited two full years after interpreting the cupbearer's dream before he was remembered and brought before Pharaoh. That's a long time to wait when you've done nothing wrong, and someone promised to help you.

Why did Joseph help the cupbearer and baker if they couldn't help him?

Joseph helped them because he had a servant's heart and maintained his walk with God. He didn't serve others based on what they could do for him: he served because that's who he was. His character didn't change based on his circumstances.

What does it mean to "invest in others while you wait"?

It means using your gifts to bless people even when your own situation isn't resolved. It means noticing when others are hurting and caring enough to ask. It means keeping a servant's heart even when you're the one who needs help. Joseph did this by interpreting dreams for prisoners who had no power to help him: but he did it anyway because God had given him that gift.

The 13-Year Overnight Success (Genesis 41)

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 12:30:00 GMT

What looks like sudden promotion is usually years of hidden preparation.

We love a good success story.

Especially when someone goes from nowhere to somewhere in what looks like a single day.

But here's what I've learned after fifty years in ministry: There's no such thing as an overnight success in God's kingdom. There's only a long preparation for a sudden moment.

Joseph's story proves it.

The Promotion That Shocked Everyone

Genesis 41:14 "Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh."

One moment, Joseph is sitting in a prison cell. The next moment, he's standing before the most powerful man in the known world.

By the end of that same day, he's second-in-command over all of Egypt.

That looks like an overnight success. It looks like Joseph got lucky. It looks like he was in the right place at the right time.

But that's not the whole story.

The Thirteen Years Nobody Saw

Joseph was seventeen when his brothers sold him into slavery. He was thirty when Pharaoh promoted him.

Do the math. That's thirteen years.

Thirteen years as a slave in Potiphar's house. Thirteen years dealing with false accusations. Thirteen years sitting in prison for a crime he didn't commit. Thirteen years of watching other people get what he deserved.

Thirteen years of faithfulness when nobody was watching.

I wonder if Joseph ever thought God had forgotten him. I wonder if he ever looked around that prison cell and thought, "This is it. This is my life now."

But here's what I know: God wasn't absent during those thirteen years. He was preparing Joseph for a moment that would change history.

Proverbs 22:29 "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men."

Diligence in the Dark

Joseph didn't know he would someday stand before Pharaoh. He just kept working hard right where he was.

He served well in Potiphar's house. He served well in prison. He interpreted dreams for a butler and a baker who would forget about him for two more years.

He was diligent when it didn't make sense. He was faithful when nobody noticed.

That's the part of the story we skip over too quickly. We love the promotion. We love the moment Joseph gets the ring, the robe, and the royal chariot. But we forget about the years of grinding it out in obscurity.

Those years weren't wasted. God was building something in Joseph that couldn't be built any other way.

Character doesn't develop in a day. Wisdom doesn't come in an afternoon. The ability to handle authority is learned in the crucible of submission.

Joseph learned to manage Potiphar's entire household before he managed a nation. He learned to lead prisoners before he led princes. He learned to trust God in the dark before he trusted God in the palace.

Every single day of those thirteen years mattered.

What God Was Doing While Joseph Waited

I think about this a lot when I'm working with younger ministers. They want the platform. They want the influence. They want to make a big impact right now.

And I get it. I was the same way.

But God doesn't work on our timeline. He works on His.

During those thirteen years, God was doing at least three things in Joseph's life:

First, God was teaching Joseph to depend on Him. When you have nothing and no one else to turn to, you learn to pray. You learn to listen. You learn that God is enough even when He's all you have.

Second, God was building Joseph's skill set. Every task Joseph performed in Potiphar's house and in prison served as training for the administrative work he would do in Pharaoh's court. He learned how to manage resources, solve problems, and lead people.

Third, God was positioning Joseph for a moment only he could fill. When Pharaoh needed someone to interpret his dreams and prepare Egypt for famine, there was only one man in the entire kingdom who could do it. And that man had been sitting in prison waiting for this exact moment.

God wasn't late. He was right on time.

The Application for Us

I've been in ministry for over fifty years now. I've seen a lot of people come and go. And here's what I've noticed:

The ones who last are the ones who stay faithful in the waiting.

They don't quit when things get hard. They don't complain when nobody notices. They just keep showing up and doing the work God has given them, right where they are.

They understand that God is preparing them even when it feels like nothing is happening.

Maybe you're in your own version of Joseph's prison right now. Maybe you've been faithful for years, and it feels like you're getting nowhere. Maybe you're watching other people get promoted while you're stuck in the same place doing the same thing.

I want to tell you: Don't despise the waiting. Don't waste the preparation.

God is doing something in you that you can't see yet. He's building character. He's developing skills. He's positioning you for a moment that's coming.

Your sudden moment is being prepared by a long obedience in the same direction.

Keep walking with God. Keep serving where you are. Keep being faithful in the little things. Keep doing your best even when nobody's watching.

One day, maybe when you least expect it, God will open a door that only you can walk through. And when that moment comes, you'll be ready because of everything He did in you during the waiting.

There are no shortcuts in God's kingdom. There are no overnight successes. There's only the faithful preparation that nobody sees, followed by the sudden promotion that everyone notices.

Trust the process. Trust the timing. Trust the God who is preparing you even now.

If you're struggling with believing that God really loves you right where you are, even in the waiting, I wrote about that in depth in The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are . You're not being graded. You're being held.

Keep Going

If this encouraged you, I'd love to connect with you more. Visit waustingardner.com for more resources on walking with God through every season of life, including the waiting seasons.

FAQ

How long should I wait for God to promote me?

As long as it takes. God's timeline is rarely our timeline, but His timing is always perfect. Focus on being faithful where you are today rather than rushing to the next thing. The promotion will come when you're ready for it.

What if I feel like God has forgotten me during the waiting?

God hasn't forgotten you. Joseph felt the same way, but God was with him every single day of those thirteen years. Keep walking with Him. Keep watching for His goodness in the small things. He's preparing you even when it feels like nothing is happening.

How can I stay motivated when I don't see any results?

Remember that faithfulness matters more than results. Your job is to do what God has called you to do today. Let Him worry about the outcomes. Stay close to Him, serve where you are, and trust that He's doing something you can't see yet.

Making the Spiritual Practical (Joseph's Plan and God's Glory)

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:45:00 GMT

What Joseph teaches us about honoring God with both faith and strategy.

I've watched people receive a word from God and then sit on it like it's too holy to touch. They talk about the revelation. They share the vision. But they never move it from the spiritual realm into the practical world where they live and work.

Joseph didn't make that mistake.

When Pharaoh had his dream, and no one could interpret it, Joseph was finally called out of prison. After thirteen years of slavery and false accusations, he stood before the most powerful man in Egypt. This was his moment.

And the first thing Joseph did was give God the glory.

Giving God Credit Before You Get the Promotion

Genesis 41:16 "And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace."

Joseph could have taken credit. He could have played it safe. He could have positioned himself as the wise man with the special gift. Instead, he pointed straight to God.

This wasn't religious talk. This was Joseph's testimony. After everything he'd been through: sold by his brothers, falsely accused by Potiphar's wife, forgotten by the butler, Joseph still honored God first.

That's the kind of heart God promotes.

If you can honor God when things aren't going well, you'll know how to honor Him when they are. If you can give Him glory in the prison, you'll give Him glory in the palace.

Don't wait until you get the promotion to start honoring God. Start now. Right where you are.

Turning Revelation Into a Plan

Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dream. Seven years of plenty. Seven years of famine. That was the revelation: the spiritual truth God gave through the dream.

But Joseph didn't stop there.

He gave Pharaoh a plan.

Genesis 41:33-36 "Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years. And let them gather all the food of those good years that come, and lay up corn under the hand of Pharaoh, and let them keep food in the cities. And that food shall be for store to the land against the seven years of famine, which shall be in the land of Egypt; that the land perish not through the famine."

Joseph made the spiritual practical.

He took God's revelation and turned it into actionable steps: appoint a leader, set up officers, collect a fifth of the harvest, store the grain, and prepare for the famine.

This wasn't just prophecy. This was the administration. Leadership. Planning. Wisdom in action.

God's truth doesn't just sit in our hearts as a nice idea. It has legs. It walks out into the world and changes things.

What Pharaoh Saw in Joseph

Pharaoh didn't just hear a plan. He saw something in Joseph.

Genesis 41:38-39 "And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is? And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art."

Pharaoh, a pagan king, recognized the Spirit of God in Joseph.

Not because Joseph was preachy. Not because Joseph quoted Scripture. But because Joseph's life, wisdom, character, and practical leadership reflected God's presence.

That's the testimony we need today. Not just talk. Not just religious activity. But a life that works because God is in it.

When you honor God in the small things and the hard things, people see it. They may not call it the Spirit of God like Pharaoh did, but they'll know something is different about you.

Learning Leadership Right Where You Are

Joseph didn't learn administration in Pharaoh's court. He learned it in Potiphar's house. He learned it in prison.

He managed a household. He oversaw prisoners. He paid attention. He grew in skill and wisdom even when no one was watching, and no one seemed to care.

By the time Pharaoh asked for a plan, Joseph was ready. Not because he was naturally gifted, but because he'd been faithful in the small things for thirteen years.

You're not wasting time where you are. You're learning. You're growing. You're being shaped for something you can't see yet.

Stop despising the small place. Stop complaining about the hard season. Learn what God is teaching you right now.

Learn how to manage well. Learn how to serve people. Learn how to think ahead. Learn how to solve problems. Learn how to honor God when no one is clapping for you.

Those lessons will carry you further than talent ever will.

Honor God Now, Not Later

The mistake I see people make is thinking they'll honor God better once things improve. Once they get the job. Once they get out of debt. Once they get the promotion. Once they get recognized.

But that's backward.

You honor God now, so you'll be ready when the door opens. You give Him glory in the prison, so you'll know how to give Him glory in the palace. You serve faithfully in obscurity, so you'll know how to serve faithfully in influence.

Joseph didn't suddenly become humble and wise when Pharaoh promoted him. He was already humble and wise. That's why God could trust him with the promotion.

If you can't be trusted with little, you won't be trusted with much. If you can't honor God in private, you won't honor Him in public.

Start now. Right where you are. With what you have. In the job you don't love. In a place that feels too small. In the season that feels forgotten.

Honor God there. Learn there. Grow there.

And when the moment comes: when your "Pharaoh" calls: you'll be ready.

A Few Questions to Think About

Am I honoring God right now, or am I waiting for a better season to start?
What practical skills is God teaching me in this hard place?
Am I making excuses for where I am, or am I learning everything I can?

If you're in a season that feels like a prison, you're not alone. I've written more about trusting God's timing and resting in His grace on my blog. And if you want to hear more stories of God's faithfulness in hard seasons, check out the Followed by Mercy podcast .

God is with you. He's preparing you. And your moment is coming.

FAQ

Does God really care about the practical details of my life?

Yes. Joseph's story shows us that God is involved in both the spiritual and the practical. He doesn't just care about your soul: He cares about your work, your leadership, and your daily decisions. Honor Him in the details.

What if I feel stuck and don't see any way forward?

Joseph was stuck for thirteen years. But God was working the whole time. Your job isn't to see the way forward: your job is to be faithful right where you are. God will open the door when you're ready.

How do I know if I'm learning what God wants to teach me?

If you're staying close to God, serving where you are, and growing in character and skill, you're on the right track. Don't overthink it. Just keep doing right and trusting Him with the outcome.

Obey from the Heart (2 Kings 10:31): When Half-Hearted Obedience Hurts You and Others

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 11:00:06 GMT

The hidden danger of obeying God outwardly while resisting Him inwardly.

I've done it more times than I can count. I've heard God clearly, nodded, and then done exactly what I wanted anyway. Not in open rebellion: just in quiet, selective obedience. I listened enough to feel spiritual, but not enough to actually change.

That's the most dangerous kind of disobedience. Because it feels like obedience.

2 Kings 10:31 But Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the LORD God of Israel with all his heart: for he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, which made Israel to sin.

Jehu was a man on a mission. God used him to execute judgment on the wicked house of Ahab. He was zealous. He was dramatic. He killed false prophets. He destroyed Baal worship. He looked like a man fully committed to God's work.

But God saw what everyone else missed: Jehu didn't pay attention to God's instructions . He obeyed selectively. He cleaned up the obvious idolatry but kept the "acceptable" sins. He stayed stuck in the same rebellious patterns as those who came before him: specifically, the sins of Jeroboam.

And those sins? They led an entire nation into spiritual disaster.

When You Obey the Parts You Like

Jehu's obedience looked impressive on the outside. He was publicly passionate about destroying Baal worship. He made a show of his zeal. But God's Word says he "took no heed": he didn't pay attention. He didn't walk in God's law with all his heart .

Here's the truth: partial obedience is just disobedience with better branding.

Jehu did what made sense to him. He obeyed the parts that fit his agenda. He removed the idols he didn't like but kept the ones that were politically convenient. He cleaned house where it was easy, but left the real mess untouched.

Sound familiar?

How many times have I done the same thing? I'll obey God in the areas that don't cost me much. I'll serve where it looks good. I'll follow where it feels comfortable. But when God asks me to surrender something I'm holding onto? When He tells me to let go of my own way? Suddenly, I'm deaf.

That's not obedience. That's selective hearing.

The Sins We Inherit and Repeat

The text says Jehu "departed not from the sins of Jeroboam." He stayed in the same rut. He repeated the same patterns. He led others down the same broken path.

Jeroboam had set up golden calves in Israel so that people wouldn't have to go to Jerusalem to worship. It was

politically smart. It kept the kingdom unified. But it was spiritually destructive. And Jehu, despite all his "zeal," kept the system going.

Here's what breaks my heart: we do the same thing . We inherit broken patterns from our spiritual upbringing, our families, and our leaders, and we just keep them. We don't question them. We don't examine them. We stay stuck in the sins of those who came before us, and then we lead others into the same traps.

Maybe it's legalism. Maybe it's works-based religion. Maybe it's fear-driven control. Maybe it's a religious performance that looks holy but has no heart.

And the worst part? We don't even see it. We think we're serving God when we're actually just maintaining the system. We're obeying halfheartedly and calling it devotion.

I've spent decades in ministry, and I can tell you this: the most dangerous Christianity is the one that looks spiritual but has no real surrender.

The Heart Behind the Obedience

God doesn't just want our actions. He wants our hearts.

Jehu did the right things, but for the wrong reasons. He served God's purposes, but he didn't serve God. He was zealous for reform but not for relationship.

And that's the question I keep having to ask myself: Am I obeying because I love God, or am I obeying to protect my image?

Am I following Him with all my heart, or am I just following the parts that make me look good?

Real obedience isn't about checking boxes. It's not about doing enough to feel spiritual. It's about surrendering everything: the comfortable sins, the hidden compromises, the "acceptable" rebellion.

It's about letting God touch the areas you've been protecting.

When I survived Stage 4 cancer and COVID , I learned something I couldn't have learned any other way: God sees the heart, and nothing else matters . You can perform. You can impress people. You can look devoted. But if your heart isn't fully His, you're just running in circles.

The Warning: Doing What's Right in Your Own Eyes

The book of Judges ends with this haunting line: "In those days there was no king in Israel: every man did that which was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25).

That's exactly what Jehu did. He did what made sense to him. He did what was right in his own eyes. He obeyed selectively, kept what was convenient, and led a nation into spiritual compromise.

And friend, that's the most dangerous place to be.

Because when you start deciding which parts of God's Word apply to you, you stop being a disciple. You become your own god. You rewrite Scripture to fit your life instead of rewriting your life to fit Scripture.

I've watched this destroy ministries. I've watched it destroy marriages. I've watched it destroy people who genuinely loved God but refused to fully surrender.

Halfhearted obedience always leads somewhere you didn't mean to go.

It's Time to Truly Listen

So what do we do? How do we move from selective obedience to wholehearted surrender?

It starts with honesty. Stop pretending. Stop performing. Stop defending the areas you've been protecting.

Ask God to show you the "Jeroboam sins" you've been holding onto: the patterns you've inherited, the compromises you've justified, the rebellion you've dressed up as wisdom.

And then take heed . Pay attention. Listen with your whole heart.

That's what Jehu didn't do. He didn't take heed. He didn't pay attention. He was too busy being impressive to actually be obedient.

But you don't have to repeat his story.

Practical Steps to Obey from the Heart

Here's what I've learned after 50+ years of walking with God:

1. Stop defending your disobedience. Call it what it is. Don't spiritualize it. Don't justify it. Don't call it "balance." Just confess it.

2. Ask God to search your heart. Pray Psalm 139:23-24: "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

3. Obey the thing you've been avoiding. You know what it is. You've known for a while. Stop waiting for it to feel comfortable. Just obey.

4. Let God heal the patterns you inherited. You don't have to repeat the spiritual dysfunction of those who came before you. God can break the cycle, but only if you let Him.

5. Walk with people who love God fully, not just impressively. Surround yourself with grace-filled, truth-anchored believers who will call you higher without crushing you with shame.

If you're looking for that kind of community and accountability, that's exactly what we do through Alignment Ministries . We help leaders move from performance to grace, from striving to rest, from halfhearted religion to wholehearted devotion.

And if you want to hear more stories of God's relentless grace in the middle of mess, check out the Followed by Mercy podcast and subscribe to our YouTube channel .

Because here's the truth I keep coming back to: God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency. But He does want all of you: not just the parts you're comfortable giving.

That's what The Big Leap of Faith is all about: believing that God loves you exactly as you are, while refusing to stay where you are because you love Him back.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to obey God "from the heart"?

Obeying from the heart means more than just external compliance: it means your actions flow from genuine love for God, not duty, fear, or performance. It's wholehearted surrender, not selective obedience. When you obey from the heart, you're not just doing what looks good; you're letting God transform the motives and desires behind your actions.

How can I know if I'm obeying God halfheartedly?

Ask yourself: Are there areas of my life I'm defending when God asks me to surrender them? Am I obeying the parts of Scripture that are easy while ignoring the ones that challenge me? Do I justify certain sins because "everyone else does it" or because they're culturally acceptable? Halfhearted obedience always has an excuse ready.

Can God still use me if I've been obeying Him only partially?

Absolutely. God used Jehu even in his compromise, but Jehu missed out on the deeper relationship and blessing that come from full surrender. God's grace covers us, but partial obedience limits our spiritual growth and can hurt the people we're leading. The good news? You can start obeying fully today. God's mercy is always running toward you, ready to help you take the next step.

Dig in for more

Destruction by Idols: Why Religion Steals While Jesus Gives Life

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 12:00:11 GMT

When faith becomes a system of rules instead of a relationship with Christ.

I've seen a lot of hurt in 50+ years of ministry. I've sat with families whose faith became a cage. I've watched good people trade the God of grace for a system of rules that slowly crushed them. And I've learned this: when we leave the God of the Bible, we don't find freedom, we find religion. And religion will take everything.

The story in 2 Kings 17 isn't ancient history. It's a warning.

When God's People Left God's Way

2 Kings 17:16-17 "And they left all the commandments of the LORD their God, and made them molten images, even two calves, and made a grove, and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served Baal. And they caused their sons and their daughters to pass through the fire, and used divination and enchantments, and sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger."

Read that again slowly.

They didn't just drift. They didn't just get a little distracted. They left all the commandments . They traded the living God for metal images. They bowed to Baal. They worshipped the stars. They used divination and witchcraft.

And then, this is where it gets dark: they sacrificed their own children in the fire.

That's not a typo. That's not an exaggeration. God's people became so twisted by false religion that they burned their babies as offerings to lifeless idols.

God didn't just notice. He was angry. Not because He's mean or petty, but because He watched His children destroy themselves.

The Spiral Always Goes Down

Here's what I've learned after watching this pattern repeat for decades: idolatry never stays small .

It starts with a little compromise. A little distance from God's Word. A little tweak to make faith more comfortable, more cultural, more "balanced."

But here's the thing: when you trade the God of the Bible for something else, anything else, you don't just lose a little truth. You start walking a path that leads to darkness. Fast.

The Israelites didn't wake up one day and decide to burn their children. They made a series of small choices: ignore this commandment, add that ritual, blend a little Baal worship with Yahweh worship. It seemed harmless.

Until it wasn't.

Because false gods always demand more. And religion, the cold, lifeless, performance-driven kind, will bleed you dry.

What Idols Look Like Today

You might be thinking, "Austin, I don't worship Baal. I don't bow to statues."

Fair enough.

But idolatry isn't just ancient. It's present. And it's subtle.

An idol is anything you trust more than God. Anything you obey more than His Word. Anything you run to before you run to Him.

For some, it's approval from others. For others, it's control, comfort, or achievement. For many in ministry, it's the pressure to perform, to keep the numbers up, to keep the donors happy, to keep the facade intact.

And just like the Israelites, modern idols make promises they can't keep. They promise satisfaction but deliver exhaustion. They promise meaning but deliver emptiness. They promise life but steal it.

I've been there. I spent years trying to prove I was enough, working harder, pushing further, measuring my value by what I could produce. And you know what? It nearly destroyed me. It took Stage 4 cancer and 21 days on a ventilator to finally stop striving and start resting in who God says I am.

The Contrast: Thief vs. Shepherd

Jesus drew the line clearly in John 10:10.

John 10:10 "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

There it is.

The thief, Satan, yes, but also cold religion, dead ritual, performance-driven faith, comes with one agenda: steal, kill, destroy.

He steals your joy. He kills your peace. He destroys your family, your health, your soul.

But Jesus? He came to give life . Not just survival. Not just getting by. Abundant life . Overflowing life. Life that satisfies.

That's the fork in the road.

You can chase the idols, the approval, the control, the religious performance, and watch them slowly take everything.

Or you can turn to Jesus and find what your soul has been craving all along: rest, acceptance, peace, and a love that never runs out.

The Only Way to Avoid the Trap

So how do you avoid the trap that swallowed Israel? How do you keep from trading the God of grace for a lifeless system?

Here's the simple, unglamorous answer: get into the Bible and listen .

Not just read it. Not just study it. Listen to it. Let it shape you. Let it correct you. Let it guide you.

The reason Israel fell into idolatry wasn't mysterious. They stopped listening to God's Word. They stopped obeying His commandments. And when you lose the Word, you lose the way.

God's Word isn't just information. It's the path to life. It's where you hear His voice. It's where grace becomes more than a concept and becomes a daily reality.

I've spent my life in the Bible, preaching, teaching, and writing about it. And I can tell you this: the more you know God's Word, the harder it is to trade Him for something fake.

But here's the key: you have to approach the Bible as a place to meet Jesus, not a place to earn points. If you read it as a checklist, it becomes another idol. If you read it as an invitation into grace, it becomes the source of life.

What Abundant Life Actually Looks Like

Let me be honest: an abundant life doesn't mean an easy life.

I've faced cancer. I've faced COVID. I've been falsely accused and canceled. I've watched ministry relationships blow up. I've buried dreams.

But through it all, I've learned this: satisfaction in Jesus is real. Biblical contentment isn't a myth. It's possible to walk through hell and still have peace: not because your circumstances are perfect, but because your foundation is solid.

Jesus didn't promise you a perfect life. He promised you His life . And His life is enough.

When you rest in that, when you stop trying to find life in performance, approval, or control, you start to taste what abundance really means.

It means waking up and knowing you're loved, even on your worst day.

It means serving without needing applause.

It means leading without needing to prove yourself.

It means forgiving without keeping score.

It means walking through pain without losing hope.

That's the life Jesus offers. And it's only found in Him.

Discover more about resting in God's grace here.

Come Back to the Source

If you've been chasing idols: whatever they are: it's not too late to turn around.

God isn't disappointed in you. He's not angry because you got distracted. He's calling you back. He's ready to give you what religion never could: life.

Real life. Abundant life. The kind that satisfies your soul.

Stop bowing to what can't save you. Stop serving what can't love you. Stop sacrificing your family, your peace, and your joy on the altar of performance.

Come back to the God of the Bible. Get into His Word. Listen. Learn. And let Him lead you into the life you were made for.

You can exhale. You can rest. You don't have to perform anymore.

Jesus already did the work. Now He's inviting you to live in it.

FAQ: Understanding Idolatry and Abundant Life

What does it mean to "leave God's commandments" today?

Leaving God's commandments doesn't always look rebellious. Often, it looks respectable: adding human rules to God's Word, prioritizing tradition over truth, or simply ignoring what the Bible clearly says because it's inconvenient. When we stop letting Scripture guide our lives, we start making decisions based on culture, comfort, or control.

How do I know if I've made something an idol?

Ask yourself: What do I run to first when I'm stressed? What do I fear losing most? What takes up the majority of my thought life? If the answer is anything other than God: approval, money, success, comfort, even ministry itself: you've probably found your idol.

Can religion really be as destructive as the Bible says?

Absolutely. Cold, performance-driven religion strips away joy, crushes people under impossible standards, and replaces grace with guilt. I've seen it destroy marriages, families, and faith. Jesus didn't die to give you religion. He died to give you a relationship, and there's a massive difference.

Want more grace-centered teaching? Listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast or explore more articles on waustingardner.com . You can also find encouragement on Substack and connect with ministry leaders through Alignment Ministries . Si prefieres leer en español, visita guillermoagardner.substack.com .

It Came True: When God Turns a Taunt into a Triumph

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:00:01 GMT

When the words meant to wound become the promise God fulfills.

Have you ever had a friend offer "advice" that felt more like a sharp jab to the ribs? We have all experienced those moments where someone tries to "help" us by pointing out every single one of our perceived failures. In the biblical narrative of Job, we find a man who was already sitting in the ashes of his life, only to be met by friends who acted more like prosecutors than comforters. Specifically, a man named Bildad decided to weigh in on Job’s suffering with a statement intended as a sarcastic jab.

Interestingly, the very words meant to mock Job turned out to be a divine promise. Bildad thought he was exposing Job’s hidden sins, but God was actually preparing a platform for His radical mercy. This story serves as a powerful reminder that, while people may throw taunts at your struggle, God has a way of bringing about restoration in ways you never imagined.

The Sarcastic Prophecy of Bildad

In the middle of Job's crisis, we find his friends offering theological explanations for his pain. They operated under the assumption that if you suffer, you must have done something wrong. Consequently, Bildad stands up and delivers a line that was meant to be a conditional taunt. He essentially told Job that if he were actually a good person, God would have already stepped in to save him.

Job 8:6-7 “If thou wert pure and upright; surely now he would awake for thee, and make the habitation of thy righteousness prosperous. Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase.”

Take a moment to feel the weight of those words. Bildad was not trying to encourage his friend. Instead, he was using a "faith-based development" argument as a weapon. He was saying, "If you were actually right with God, you wouldn't be sitting in the dirt." However, the irony of this statement is absolutely staggering. While Bildad meant it as a jab, God intended it as a preview.

When God Flips the Script

Often, we listen to our critics and assume they are right about our future. We believe the lie that our current "small beginning" or our current season of loss is the final chapter. Furthermore, we might even start to believe that God is ignoring us because we aren't "pure and upright" enough. But the Gospel tells a different story. The finished work of Jesus reminds us that our righteousness is not a performance we maintain; it is a gift we receive.

By the end of the book of Job, something miraculous happens. God does exactly what Bildad sarcastically suggested He wouldn't do. He awakens for Job. He vindicates him. He restores his "habitation" and makes it more prosperous than it has ever been. Specifically, the Bible tells us that Job ended up with twice as much as he had at the start.

This transformation shows us the heart of God’s grace. Even when the world, and sometimes even our religious friends, judges us, God is busy working behind the scenes. He takes the very words used to hurt us and turns them into the reality of our restoration. If you are feeling small today, remember that your "latter end" is in the hands of a God who loves to increase those who depend on Him.

The Danger of the Judge’s Chair

We can learn a massive lesson from Bildad’s mistake. He felt completely justified in analyzing Job’s spiritual life. Similarly, we often find ourselves trying to "correct" our brothers and sisters when they are going through a hard time. We think we know why they are suffering. We assume we understand the mechanics of God’s discipline.

Nevertheless, playing the judge is a dangerous game. Bildad must have felt like an absolute fool when he saw Job restored and vindicated by God. It would have been far better for him to keep his thoughts to himself and simply weep with his friend. Therefore, we should be much more concerned with our own spiritual walk than with diagnosing the "sins" of others.

When we focus on our own relationship with Jesus, we find that we have very little time left to judge anyone else. For instance, when we realize how much mercy we require daily, we become much more likely to extend that same mercy to others. Rather than trying to be the "Holy Spirit" in someone else’s life, we can choose to be a source of grace.

Resting in the Process of Faith-Based Development

You might be wondering why God isn’t coming through for you right now. Perhaps you have prayed, fasted, and waited, yet things are still falling apart. In these moments, it is easy to become restless and frustrated. You might even start to wonder if God has forgotten you entirely.

However, you must give God time to do what He will do. Faith-based development isn't an overnight process. It is a long-form journey of learning to rest in His finished work. Just because your beginning is small doesn't mean your story is over. In fact, most of God’s greatest works start in the dark, in the small, and in the "not enough" phase.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.” : Austin Gardner

When you stop trying to power your own restoration through performance, you finally find the Holy Rest that your soul craves. You can trust that God is at work even when you can’t see His hand. Eventually, you will look back and see that He was moving the pieces into place all along.

The Vindication of Grace

The story of Job ends not with Job’s perfect behavior, but with God’s perfect character. God didn't bless Job because Job figured it all out; He blessed Job because He is a God of restoration. This is the essence of New Covenant grace. We are not being graded on our consistency; we are being held by His mercy.

If you are facing false accusations or the sting of "helpful" critics, take heart. You do not need to defend yourself. Consequently, you can find peace when you are falsely accused by looking to the one who was the ultimate victim of false accusation: Jesus Christ. He was silent before His accusers so that He could speak for you today.

“God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency.” : Austin Gardner

Your critics might be speaking "truth" about your current struggle, but they don't know the end of your story. Like Job, you may find that the very thing people said was impossible is exactly what God is about to make come true.

Trusting the Hand at Work

In conclusion, let us stop trying to be the architects of our own increase. Whether your beginning feels microscopic or your current situation feels like a graveyard, God is the God of the resurrection. He takes the taunts of the enemy and turns them into the triumphs of His grace.

Therefore, take the pressure off yourself today. You are not behind. You are not failing. You are simply in the middle of a process that ends in God’s glory. Trust Him with the timeline. Trust Him with the restoration. And above all, trust that His mercy is following you every single day of your life.

For more on believing in God's immense love for you, check out The Big Leap of Faith .

FAQ: Understanding God’s Restoration

Why does it feel like God is taking so long to bless me?

God often works on a timeline that prioritizes our internal growth over our external comfort. Consequently, the "waiting room" is usually where He builds the faith and character necessary to handle the increase He has planned for our "latter end."

How should I respond when friends judge my spiritual life during a trial?

Instead of becoming defensive, try to focus on your own heart and your direct relationship with the Father. While their words may be hurtful, remember that God is your ultimate judge and vindicator, and He knows the true state of your soul.

Does "righteousness" in Job 8:6 mean I have to be perfect to be blessed?

In the New Covenant, our righteousness is found in Christ alone, not in our own perfect behavior. Therefore, the "prosperity" God brings is a result of His grace and our identity as His children, rather than a reward for a flawless performance.

Hopes Dashed

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:00:58 GMT

What Job’s darkest question teaches us about finding hope when everything collapses.

Have you ever looked at your life and felt like the very foundation was crumbling beneath your feet? We often use the phrase "hopes dashed" to describe moments when our expectations are shattered by a sudden, painful reality. It is a heavy weight that settles in the chest when the future you imagined simply evaporates. Whether it is a failed ministry, a broken relationship, or a health crisis, the feeling of disillusionment can be utterly paralyzing. However, I want to sit with you in that darkness for a moment because there is a man in the Bible who knew this feeling better than anyone else.

Job 17:15 “And where is now my hope? As for my hope, who shall see it?”

Job was not just having a bad day; he was experiencing a total eclipse of the soul. He looked around at the wreckage of his life and asked a question that many of us have whispered in the middle of the night. Specifically, he wanted to know where his hope had gone. If you feel like your hope has been buried under the weight of your circumstances, please know that you are not alone. My friend, the Lord is not offended by your honesty or your pain.

When Everything Falls Apart

To understand the depth of Job’s despair, we must remember exactly what he lost. In a single day, he received news that his wealth was gone and his livestock had been stolen or destroyed. Far more devastatingly, a great wind collapsed the house where all ten of his children were feasting, and they all perished. Consequently, Job went from being the greatest man in the East to a man sitting in ashes, scraping his sores with a piece of broken pottery.

Meanwhile, his friends, who should have been a source of comfort, began to point fingers. They insisted that he must have some secret sin that caused this catastrophe. It is one thing to suffer; it is quite another to have those closest to you tell you that you deserve the pain. Under the weight of financial ruin, grief, and false accusations, Job felt completely "doomed." He could not see the path forward because the darkness was too thick.

The Feeling of Being Doomed

Perhaps you are standing where Job stood, looking at a path that seems to have hit a dead end. When our hopes dashed against the rocks of reality, our perspective becomes incredibly narrow. We start to believe that our current situation is the final chapter of our story. Therefore, we feel trapped in a cycle of "what ifs" and "if onlys." This sense of doom suggests that God has forgotten us or, worse, turned against us.

However, we must realize that our feelings are not always the best narrators of the truth. While Job felt like he was at the end, God was actually doing something profound that Job could not yet see. In those dark moments, it feels as though the lights have been turned out in the room of our lives. Nevertheless, just because you cannot see the furniture doesn't mean the room has disappeared. God is still there, and He is still working.

Resting in Divine Permission

One of the most challenging truths to grasp is that nothing happens to a child of God without His permission. We see this clearly in the opening chapters of Job, where Satan had to ask for permission before he could touch Job’s life. While this might feel frightening at first, it is actually a source of immense comfort. If God is the one who allows the trial, then God remains in total control of the outcome.

He is not a distant, cold deity watching us struggle from a balcony. Instead, He is a loving Father who only allows what He can ultimately use for our good and His glory. Specifically, God is not reacting to the devil’s moves; the devil is a tethered dog who can only go as far as the Master allows. Because of this, you can rest even when the storm is howling. You are not a victim of random chance or bad luck. You are held in the hand of a Sovereign God who loves you with an everlasting love.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.”

Shifting the Anchor of Our Hope

Most of our disappointments stem from where we place our hope. We often anchor our hope in our finances, our health, our children’s success, or our ministry’s growth. Consequently, when those things fluctuate or fail, our hope goes down with the ship. Job’s question, "Where is now my hope?" was a turning point. He was beginning to realize that the things he once relied on were gone.

The Lord often allows our earthly hopes dashed so that we can find an anchor that never moves. This anchor is the Person of Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. When everything else is stripped away, we find that Christ is enough. In fact, he is more than enough. Our hope is not in a change of circumstances, but in the unchangeable character of God. This is the big leap of faith: believing that God loves you exactly as you are, regardless of your current success or failure. You can read more about this transition in our article, The Big Leap of Faith .

Seeing the Father Through the Son

When we are in pain, we often view God through the lens of our suffering. We think that if life is hard, God must be hard. If we are being punished by circumstances, we assume God is the one holding the whip. However, the New Covenant teaches us to view our suffering through the lens of Jesus. Jesus is the perfect revelation of the Father.

When you look at Jesus, you see a God who weeps with the grieving, heals the broken, and gives His life for His friends. God is not divided; He is exactly like Jesus. Therefore, even when you are sitting in the ashes like Job, you can be certain that God’s heart toward you is one of pure, unconditional love. He is not measuring your worth by how well you handle the trial. He is holding you through the trial because you are His child.

God’s Work in the Dark

It is a beautiful and mysterious truth that God does His best work in the dark. Just as a seed must be buried in the cold, dark earth before it can sprout into a beautiful flower, our lives often require seasons of hiddenness. During these times, it seems like nothing is happening. We pray, and the heavens seem like brass. We search for a way out, and every door remains locked.

Meanwhile, beneath the surface, God is strengthening our roots. He is teaching us to trust His heart when we cannot trace His hand. Specifically, He is removing our dependence on ourselves and our performance. He is moving us from a "doing" relationship to a "being" relationship. You are loved because you are His, not because of what you can do for Him.

Hope Reborn in the Finished Work

The story of Job ends with restoration, but the true restoration for us is found in the Gospel. Jesus took the ultimate "dashed hope" of the cross and turned it into the greatest victory in human history. The disciples thought everything was over on Friday, but Sunday was coming. Your "Friday" might be long and painful, but the finished work of Jesus guarantees a "Sunday."

Nothing that has been lost is outside of God’s power to redeem. He works all things together for good to them that love Him. This does not mean that every bad thing is "good," but it does mean that God is a Master at taking the broken pieces of our lives and creating something beautiful. Therefore, do not give up. Your story is not over because the One who writes the story is still holding the pen.

“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

Finding Peace in the Midst of the Storm

You might still be in the middle of the mess today. Your bank account might still be low, or your heart might still be breaking from a loss. How do you find peace when your hopes are dashed ? You find it by resting in the fact that you are already accepted and loved. You don't have to perform for God to get Him to fix your life.

Instead, you can simply lean into His grace. Admit your weakness. Tell Him you can't see the way. He is not looking for your strength; He is looking for your dependence. As you wait, remember that His mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions; it is running toward you with intention. You are not behind, you are not being graded, and you are most certainly being held.

Moving Forward with Quiet Confidence

As we look back at Job’s journey, we see that he eventually came to a place of deeper intimacy with God than he ever had in his days of prosperity. He said, "I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee." Sometimes, it takes the dark to truly see the Light.

If you find yourself in a season of dashed hopes, I encourage you to stop striving. Stop trying to figure out why this happened or how you can fix it. Instead, just let yourself be loved by the Father. He is for you. He is with you. And He is working even now to bring about a beautiful conclusion to your story. Trust in His finished work, rest in His grace, and know that your hope, when placed in Him, will never be put to shame.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does God allow my hopes to be dashed if He loves me?

God allows trials not to hurt us, but to shift our dependence from temporary things to His eternal grace. He uses these moments to build a deeper relationship with us that isn't based on our circumstances.

How can I feel hope when everything in my life is going wrong?

Hope isn't a feeling we manufacture; it is a person we trust. When we stop looking at our problems and start looking at the finished work of Jesus, we find a steady peace that transcends our feelings.

Is it wrong to feel like I am doomed or that God has forgotten me?

It is a common human experience to feel overwhelmed, and even great men like Job felt this way. God is not angry at your honesty; He invites you to bring those feelings to Him so He can comfort you with His truth.

#Grace #Hope #AustinGardner #Job #Inspiration

He Lives: Finding Hope When Everything Falls Apart

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 08:45:02 GMT

Discovering the hope that remains when health, security, and answers disappear.

Life has a way of pulling the rug out from under us when we least expect it. Perhaps you are sitting there today feeling like the walls are closing in, or maybe you are wondering if the sun will ever shine again on your circumstances. We often find ourselves searching for a foothold when the ground beneath us turns to quicksand. During these seasons, the story of Job offers more than just a historical account of suffering; it provides a profound blueprint for survival. Even when his world lay in ruins, Job made a declaration that has echoed through the centuries: He lives.

Finding hope when everything falls apart isn't about ignoring the pain or pretending the storm isn't real. On the contrary, it is about anchoring your soul to a reality that is bigger than your current struggle. This assurance doesn't come from our ability to hold on to God, but rather from the fact that He is holding on to us. Consequently, we can breathe again, knowing that the story doesn't end in the ashes.

The Anchor in the Midst of the Gale

When we look at the life of Job, we see a man who lost nearly everything. His wealth vanished, his children were taken, and his health plummeted until he was scraping his sores with a piece of broken pottery. Furthermore, his closest friends became his harshest critics, offering judgment instead of comfort. In the absolute pit of his despair, Job didn't point to his own strength or his past religious performance. Instead, he looked toward the future with a startling clarity of faith.

Job 19:25 “For I know that my redeemer liveth, And that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:”

Specifically, this verse serves as a turning point in the narrative. Job wasn't speaking from a place of comfort or ease; he was speaking from the middle of the wreckage. Similarly, you might feel like your life is a pile of debris right now. Nevertheless, the same truth that sustained Job is available to you today. Your Redeemer is not a distant memory or a theological concept. He is a living, breathing Person who stands in your defense.

Certainty Beyond Our Circumstances

One of the most striking aspects of Job’s confession is the word "know." He didn't say, "I hope," or "I feel," or "I wish." Instead, he used a word of absolute certainty. Faith is often most powerful when our feelings are at their lowest. There are things we know to be true even when we do not feel them in our emotions. For example, the sun is still behind the clouds even on the gloomiest day of the year.

In my own journey through Stage 4 cancer and the harrowing days of battling COVID-19, I learned that my feelings are terrible compasses. They fluctuate with the news from the doctor or the level of pain in my body. However, the goodness of God remains a constant. Austin Gardner has seen many seasons of ministry, but none have been as transformative as those in which I had to simply trust that He lives.

Faith-based development isn't about gaining more information; it is about deepening this core conviction.

Moreover, this certainty allows us to rest. You don't have to figure out the "why" behind every tragedy to experience peace. If you are struggling to believe that God loves you exactly as you are, I encourage you to read more about The Big Leap of Faith . Understanding His unconditional love is the first step toward finding satisfaction in Jesus, regardless of your external situation.

The Redeemer Who Stands

In the ancient world, a "Redeemer" (or Goel) was a family member who stepped in to pay a debt, provide protection, or vindicate a relative. By calling God his Redeemer, Job was declaring that God was his nearest kinsman. He believed that even if his flesh was destroyed, God would eventually stand upon the earth and set things right. This is the essence of the New Covenant grace we live under today.

Jesus Christ is our living Redeemer. He doesn't just watch our suffering from a distance; He entered into it. Because He lives, we have a guarantee that death, disease, and disappointment do not have the final word. Consequently, every trial we face is filtered through His hands of mercy. He is the one who stands over your life, your family, and your future.

Shifting Your Gaze to Grace

It is incredibly easy to become obsessed with our problems. We wake up thinking about them, and we go to sleep rehearsing them. Meanwhile, the Lord is inviting us to a different focus. Staying focused on the Lord’s goodness and power is a deliberate choice we must make daily. It involves recognizing that His grace is sufficient for this very moment.

“God’s mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope.”

This quote from the Followed by Mercy bank reminds us that we aren't being chased by judgment.

Instead, we are being pursued by love. If you find yourself exhausted by the performance-based religion that tells you to "do more" to earn God's favor, it is time to stop. Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first. When you realize that you are already held by the One who lives, the pressure to perform simply melts away.

The Victory is Already Won

Ultimately, Job’s story ended in restoration. God did indeed "awake" for him and make his habitation prosperous. However, the greatest victory wasn't the doubled cattle or the new children; it was the fact that Job saw God in a way he never had before. He moved from hearing about God to seeing Him with his own eyes.

Similarly, the difficulties you are facing right now are not designed to destroy you. God is at work, even in the most terrible events of your life. He is using these moments to reveal His power and to demonstrate that He will win in the end. Whether the victory comes in this life or the next, we can be sure that our Redeemer shall stand at the latter day upon the earth.

Finding Satisfaction in Jesus

When everything else is stripped away, we find out what truly satisfies us. If our joy is tied to our health, bank account, or reputation, it is fragile. But if our satisfaction is in Jesus, we possess a treasure that the world cannot steal. This is the heart of faith-based development: moving from self-sufficiency to Christ-dependency.

Austin Gardner has spent over 50 years in ministry, and if there is one thing I have learned, it is that Christ is enough. He is enough when the ministry is growing, and He is enough when you are facing a "canceled" season of life. His mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention.

If you are hurting today, I want you to know that you are not being graded. You are being held. You are not behind schedule in your spiritual growth because you are suffering. In fact, you might be exactly where God wants you: in a place where you can finally see that He lives.

FAQ: Finding Hope in the Hard Times

How can I feel God's presence when I am in so much pain?

Feelings are often the last thing to align with truth. Start by declaring what you know from Scripture, like Job did. Focus on the fact of His promise rather than the fluctuations of your emotions, and you will eventually find that His peace settles over your heart.

Does suffering mean that God is disappointed in me?

Absolutely not. As I often say, "God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency." Suffering is a part of the human experience in a fallen world, but it is never a sign that you have lost God’s love or that He has walked away from you.

What does it mean to "rest" while everything is falling apart?

Resting means stepping out of the "driver's seat" and trusting that Christ has already finished the work. It is the realization that your identity is secure in Him regardless of your performance or your problems. You rest by leaning into His grace and letting Him carry the weight of the outcome.

Are you looking for more encouragement?

Listen to the Followed by Mercy Podcast for weekly insights into grace.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel @waustingardner for practical ministry and life coaching.
Check out Alignment Ministries for resources on faith-based development.

#AustinGardner #Grace #Mercy #HeLives #FaithBasedDevelopment

Dream-Chasers and Coat-Givers: How to Encourage Your Child's God-Sized Dreams

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:45:08 GMT

Why the encouragement of one believing parent can shape a child’s calling for a lifetime.

Genesis 37:3 "Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours."

Jacob gave Joseph a coat. Not just any coat, a coat of many colors. It was expensive. It was beautiful. It was visible. And it said one thing loud and clear: "I see you. I believe in you. I'm not ashamed of what God put in you."

That coat became the symbol of favor. It also became the thing his brothers hated most.

Your child's God-sized dream might look like that coat. It might be beautiful. It might be expensive in terms of time, energy, and risk. And it might make other people uncomfortable.

But here's the question every parent has to answer: Will you be the one who gives the coat, or the one who rips it off?

The Gift of Recognition: Seeing What God Sees

Jacob saw something in Joseph that the others didn't see. Or maybe they saw it and resented it. Either way, Jacob wasn't embarrassed by Joseph's uniqueness. He celebrated it.

That's your first job as a parent: See what God sees.

Your kid might have a "weird" calling. They might want to become missionaries when everyone else is chasing money. They might want to plant a church when everyone else wants safety. They might want to homeschool when the world says you're crazy. They might want to adopt when people say you already have enough kids.

Don't dismiss it just because it doesn't fit the mold.

Joseph's dreams were about leadership, about influence, about a future that didn't yet make sense. His brothers heard those dreams and got angry. But Jacob? Jacob "observed the saying" (Genesis 37:11). He paid attention. He didn't mock. He didn't shut it down.

He gave the coat.

Don't Dismiss the "Weird" Dreams

Genesis 37:9 "And he dreamed yet another dream, and told it his brethren, and said, Behold, I have dreamed a dream more; and, behold, the sun and the moon and the stars made obeisance to me."

The sun, moon, and stars bowing down? That's not normal dinner conversation. That's not a "safe" dream. That's the kind of dream that makes people roll their eyes and say, "Who does this kid think he is?"

But those dreams were from God.

Your child's dream might sound big. It might sound unrealistic. It might sound like pride. But don't confuse a God-given vision with arrogance. There's a difference between a teenager who thinks they're better than everyone and a young person who's captured by something bigger than themselves.

Here's how you tell the difference: A God-sized dream always leads to service, not just status.

Joseph's dreams weren't about being famous. They were about being used. God had a plan to save a nation through him. But at seventeen, Joseph didn't know that yet. He just knew God had shown him something.

Your job as a parent is not to squash the dream. Your job is to help them steward it well.

Be the Safe Harbor When the World Mocks

Genesis 37:4 "And when his brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him."

Joseph's brothers hated him. They mocked him. They threw him in a pit. They sold him into slavery. And it all started because he had a dream, and someone believed in him.

If your child dreams big for God, expect pushback. Expect mockery. Expect people, even family, to misunderstand.

But your home should be the one place they don't have to defend their calling.

You don't have to agree with every detail. You don't have to understand the full plan. But you do have to create a space where they can talk about what God is stirring in them without feeling stupid.

I've seen too many young people abandon God-sized dreams because the people who should have encouraged them shut them down. Parents said, "Be realistic." Pastors said, "You're too young." Friends said, "You're crazy."

And the dream died.

Don't let that happen in your house. Be the one who says, "Tell me more. What do you think God is saying? How can I help you take the next step?"

Your encouragement might be the only thing standing between your child's calling and their quitting.

Help Them Align Dreams With Scripture

Here's the balance: Not every dream is from God.

Joseph's dreams aligned with God's character and God's plan. They weren't selfish. They weren't destructive. They were about God using him to save lives.

So teach your kids to test their dreams against Scripture.

Ask questions like:

Does this dream honor God?
Does it serve others or just serve you?
Are you willing to let God shape the timeline and the method?
Can you handle it if the path looks nothing like you expected?

Joseph thought his dream meant his family would bow down to him right away. Instead, he spent years in slavery and prison. The dream was real. The path was hard. God was faithful.

Teach your kids that a God-sized dream often comes with a God-sized test.

Help them build perseverance . Teach them that dreams don't come true overnight. They come true through daily faithfulness, hard work, and staying close to Jesus even when nothing makes sense.

Help them develop responsibility . If they want to lead, they need to learn to serve. If they want influence, they need to learn integrity. Start small. Give them real work. Let them fail and recover. That's how character is built.

Nurture Vision Without Letting Pride Take Over

Jacob loved Joseph. But Jacob also made a mistake. He showed favoritism so openly that it caused division.

Joseph had a vision. But Joseph also had some growing up to do. Telling your brothers repeatedly that they're going to bow down to you? That's not wisdom. That's immaturity.

So here's the tension: You want to encourage the dream, but you also want to guard against pride.

Teach your child that a calling is not a crown. God gives vision to people He plans to use, not people who already have it all figured out. The vision is a gift. It's also a responsibility.

Help them develop self-awareness. Let them know their strengths and their weaknesses. Celebrate what God has put in them. But also teach them humility, dependence on God, and the value of walking with wise people.

Surround them with dream champions : not just people who hype them up, but people who will speak truth, pray with them, and hold them accountable.

And remind them: The dream is not about them. It's about God and what He wants to do through them.

The Coat and the Calling

Joseph's coat didn't protect him from hardship. It actually made him a target. But it was a symbol that mattered. It reminded him, and everyone else, that his father believed in him.

Your encouragement works the same way. It won't remove every obstacle. It won't guarantee an easy road. But it will remind your child that they're not alone. That someone sees them. That someone believes God has a plan for their life.

So give the coat. Celebrate the calling. Nurture the dream. And trust that the same God who gave Joseph a vision will be faithful to complete it.

As I've walked through 50+ years of ministry and 20 years as a missionary in Peru , I've watched God take broken people, impossible situations, and "unrealistic" dreams, and do something beautiful. He's still doing it today.

And if you want to dive deeper into what it looks like to trust God's love and calling, even when the path doesn't make sense, check out this article: The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are .

FAQ

What if my child's dream seems unrealistic?

Don't confuse "unrealistic" with "God-sized." Joseph's dream looked impossible: until God made it happen. Your job is not to predict outcomes. Your job is to help them walk faithfully and trust God with the results.

How do I encourage my child without fostering pride?

Celebrate the calling, not the child's superiority. Teach them that a God-given dream is about service, not status. Keep pointing them to Jesus and away from self-promotion.

What if my child gets discouraged when people mock their dreams?

Remind them of Joseph. He was hated, thrown in a pit, sold as a slave, falsely accused, and imprisoned, and God still fulfilled the dream. Hardship doesn't mean the dream is dead. It often means the dream is being refined.

Want more encouragement? Listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast at followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com or check out more articles at waustingardner.com/blog .

No One Gets a Pass: Why Everyone Is Responsible for the Great Commission

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:30:14 GMT

A biblical look at why the Great Commission was never meant for a select few.

We often fall into the trap of thinking that the heavy lifting of the Gospel is reserved for a "special forces" group of Christians. We look at the missionaries who sell everything to move across the ocean or the pastors who stand behind pulpits every Sunday, and we think, "I'm glad God called them, because He certainly didn't call me." However, when we look closely at the Word of God, we find a much different picture. In reality, the mission of reaching the world is a shared responsibility that rests on the shoulders of every single person who has been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.

Specifically, we see this principle beautifully illustrated in the Old Testament during the rebuilding of the Temple. It wasn't just the work of a few leaders; it was a movement that required the participation of every person in the community. Whether someone stayed or someone went, everyone had a job to do. Austin Gardner has often pointed out that our modern understanding of the Great Commission should mirror this ancient dedication.

The King Who Was Stirred by God

The story begins with an unlikely character: Cyrus, the King of Persia. God moved in his heart to fulfill a promise and restore His people. Cyrus didn't just give the Jews permission to leave; he issued a challenge that echoed through every household in the kingdom.

Ezra 1:3-4 “Who is there among you of all his people? his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the house of the LORD God of Israel, (he is the God,) which is in Jerusalem. And whosoever remaineth in any place where he sojourneth, let the men of his place help him with silver, and with gold, and with goods, and with beasts, beside the freewill offering for the house of God that is in Jerusalem.”

God stirred up Cyrus, and the king consequently felt a divine weight to rebuild the Temple. He didn't just ask for volunteers to go on a trip. Instead, he made it clear that every person associated with God's people bore some responsibility for the project. In fact, he divided the responsibility into two clear categories: those who would go and those who would help.

Some Must Go, and Some Must Give

Cyrus was bold in his decree because he knew he was doing God’s will. He understood that a building as magnificent as the Temple could not be raised by a handful of people working in isolation. Therefore, he told the people that if they weren't the ones physically traveling to Jerusalem to lay the bricks, they were the ones responsible for funding the journey.

He literally said, "If you don’t go, then you help!" This wasn't a suggestion; it was a mandate from God. Those who remained in their places were instructed to provide silver, gold, goods, and beasts. They were to provide freewill offerings to ensure the work succeeded. Furthermore, this tells us that staying behind wasn't an excuse for inactivity. It was simply a different assignment within the same mission.

During my years of ministry leadership , I have seen this same dynamic play out. We often think of "missions" as something that happens "over there," but the support system "over here" is just as vital. Without the givers, the goers cannot stay. Without the prayers, the goers have no power.

Transitioning to a Greater Commission

While Cyrus was focused on an earthly building made of stone and gold, we are involved in a far more important ministry today. We aren't building a physical temple in Jerusalem; we are building a spiritual body made of people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. If everyone was responsible for a pile of bricks in the days of Ezra, how much more are we responsible for the eternal souls of men and women today?

We have been given clear commands that leave no room for ambiguity. These aren't suggestions for the "super-spiritual." They are the marching orders for the entire Church.

Matthew 28:18-20 “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

Mark 16:15 “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”

Acts 1:8 “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

Just as Cyrus expected every Jew to participate in the Temple project, Jesus expects every believer to participate in the Great Commission. Whether you are in the mountains of Peru or the suburbs of Georgia, you have a role. Consequently, we must stop viewing world evangelism as a hobby for the few and start seeing it as the duty of the many.

The Myth of the "Rare Bunch"

Do you have a misconception that missionaries are a rare bunch? Perhaps you feel thankful that God "never called you" to go, as if you escaped a difficult sentence. Many people view world evangelism as something important to "the professionals" but not particularly relevant to their daily lives.

However, this way of thinking is a dangerous departure from biblical truth. When we distance ourselves from the mission, we distance ourselves from the heart of God. God is a missionary God. He sent His Son on a rescue mission to earth. If we are His children, how can we not share His passion for the lost?

We must realize that the call to reach the world is already given to every believer. You don't need a special "feeling" or a lightning bolt from heaven to tell you to care about the lost. You already have the command. The only question is how you will fulfill your part of that responsibility.

Finding Your Fit Because You Love Him

It is important to understand that our involvement shouldn't come from a place of legalistic pressure. We don't give or go because we are afraid of God's disapproval. Instead, we get involved because we love Him and want to see His will done on earth.

“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

When you realize how much God loves you, your natural response is to want others to know that same love. You start to take the mission personally. You don't give so that you "don't have to go." You give because you want the job done, and you recognize that your resources are tools in God's hands.

You might be someone who stays, but that doesn't mean you are a spectator. You can pray with fervency. You can witness to the person at the grocery store or your neighbor across the street. You can give generously so that those who are called to the "uttermost parts" have everything they need to succeed. When we all take our places, the work moves forward with incredible power.

Taking the Big Leap

Taking responsibility for the Gospel often requires a big leap of faith . It means believing that God can use your small contribution to make a global impact. It means trusting that as you pour out your life for others, He will continue to pour His grace into you.

Austin Gardner spent decades as a missionary church planter in the cities and mountains of Peru. He didn't do it because he was "special," but because he took Jesus' command personally. Today, through Alignment Ministries, that same spirit of mentorship and global vision continues. We are all called to be part of this legacy of faith.

Don't let another day go by thinking that the Great Commission is someone else's problem. Study the scriptures. Meditate on the needs of the world. Ask the Lord where you fit in His grand design. Whether you are the one going up to Jerusalem or the one providing the silver and gold, remember this: everyone is responsible.

FAQ: Understanding Our Global Responsibility

Does everyone have to move to a foreign country to fulfill the Great Commission?

No, not everyone is called to move abroad, but everyone is called to be a witness. As we see in Ezra, some "remain in their place" to provide the necessary support, prayer, and local outreach that makes global missions possible.

How can I know what my specific role is in reaching the world?

Start by being faithful where you are right now by sharing the Gospel with those in your immediate circle. As you pray and stay involved in your local church's mission efforts, God will clarify whether your primary role is to go, give, pray, or lead.

Why is it important to view missions as a responsibility rather than an option?

When we see missions as optional, we tend to prioritize our own comfort over the eternal destiny of others. Recognizing our responsibility keeps us aligned with God's heart and ensures that the Gospel continues to reach those who have never heard.

#GreatCommission #AustinGardner #WorldMissions #FaithInAction #BibleStudy

Faith in the Face of Pompe Disease: The Canfield Family Story

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 14:16:05 GMT

Why weakness, honesty, and grace often shape the strongest leaders.

The Myth of the Bulletproof Leader

God isn't looking for your ability; He is looking for your availability. He wants you to rest in the finished work of Jesus. For example, when I faced Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and a brutal battle with COVID, I couldn't "perform" my way out of it. I had to simply be held by the Father. That vulnerability didn't weaken my ministry; it gave it a new depth.

From Fixer to Companion: Lessons from the Canfield Family

Austin Gardner has always believed that mentorship is about relationship, not just information.

The Power of Sharing Your Scars

Psalm 34:18 “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”

If God is near to the brokenhearted, then a leader who is honest about their own brokenness will find themselves closer to the heart of God, and the hearts of their people. This is the core of The Big Leap of Faith . It is the radical belief that God loves you exactly as you are, not as you think you should be. Consequently, when you believe this for yourself, you can finally offer that same grace to others.

Leading Through the Fire with Grace

I often say that rest doesn't come after you fix yourself; rest comes first. You are not being graded on how well you handle the fire. You are being held by the One who walked through the fire for you. Therefore, you can afford to be vulnerable. You can admit to your team when you are struggling. You can tell your mentees, "I don't have the answer for this, but I know the One who does."

Finding Strength in the Secret Place

Your Weakness is an Invitation

Call to Action: Dive Deeper into Vulnerable Leadership

For more resources on leadership and grace, visit Alignment Ministries or check out the Followed by Mercy newsletter.

FAQ: Leading with Vulnerability

How can I be vulnerable without losing my authority as a leader?

Vulnerability actually increases your true authority by building trust and authenticity. When you are honest about your journey, people respect your courage and are more likely to follow your lead. Real authority comes from your character and your connection to Christ, not from a mask of perfection.

What if my past mistakes are too "messy" to share?

How do I stop being a "fixer" and start being a "companion"?

#AustinGardner #VulnerableLeadership #MinistryGrace #FaithInTheFire #Mentorship

The Reuben Trap: Why Half-Hearted Bravery Isn't Enough

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 09:45:03 GMT

The danger of good intentions without the courage to stand for what is right.

Genesis 37:21-22 "And Reuben heard it, and he delivered him out of their hands; and said, Let us not kill him. And Reuben said unto them, Shed no blood, but cast him into this pit that is in the wilderness, and lay no hand upon him; that he might rid him out of their hands, to deliver him to his father again."

Reuben gets credit for trying.

He really does.

While his brothers were plotting murder, at least Reuben spoke up. At least he tried to do something. At least he didn't stay silent while they killed their little brother.

But here's the problem: Reuben's bravery was only half-baked.

He didn't have the backbone to actually stand for what was right. He compromised. He went along with the crowd just enough to keep the peace, then planned to fix it all later when nobody was looking.

And that "later" never came.

The Middle Ground That Leads Nowhere

Reuben was the oldest brother. He had authority. He had a position. He could have put his foot down and said, "No. We're not doing this. I don't care what Joseph said or how Dad treats him. We're not laying a hand on our brother."

But he didn't.

Instead, he suggested a compromise: "Let's not kill him. Let's just throw him in a pit."

That sounds noble on the surface. After all, he kept Joseph alive, right? But look closer. Reuben wasn't brave enough to actually stop what was happening. He was just brave enough to delay it.

He went with the flow. He let the angry mob have its way. And he told himself he'd come back later and fix it all in secret.

But by the time Reuben returned to rescue Joseph, it was too late. Joseph was gone. Sold into slavery. And Reuben's plan to be the hero crumbled.

Genesis 37:29-30 "And Reuben returned unto the pit; and, behold, Joseph was not in the pit; and he rent his clothes. And he returned unto his brethren, and said, The child is not; and I, whither shall I go?"

Reuben had good intentions. But good intentions without courage don't save anyone.

Why Half-Hearted Bravery Fails Every Time

Here's what I've learned in over 50 years of ministry: Leadership doesn't work in the middle.

You can't be sort-of brave. You can't kind of stand for what's right. You can't compromise with evil and expect good to come out of it.

Reuben thought he was being wise. He thought he was playing it safe. He thought he could keep everyone happy and still do the right thing later.

But compromise never works that way.

When you let the wrong thing happen "just a little bit," you lose your authority to stop it. When you go along with the crowd to keep the peace, you give up your ability to lead them in a different direction.

Reuben's compromise didn't save Joseph. It just made him complicit.

And when the moment came to actually rescue his brother, Reuben had already lost his chance.

Leadership Requires a Backbone

I've seen this play out a hundred times in ministry. A pastor knows something is wrong in the church, but he doesn't want to make waves. A missionary sees corruption on the field, but he's afraid of losing support. A leader watches someone get hurt, but he stays quiet because speaking up might cost him his position.

And every single time, that silence costs more than the stand would have.

If you're going to lead, you have to be willing to stand alone.

You have to be willing to say the hard thing even when everyone else disagrees. You have to be willing to lose friends, lose influence, lose your reputation if that's what it takes to do what's right.

Reuben wanted to be the hero without paying the price of heroism.

He wanted to save Joseph without risking his relationship with his brothers. He wanted to do the right thing without actually standing against the wrong thing.

And that kind of leadership doesn't work.

Proverbs 28:1 "The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion."

Bold as a lion. Not "cautious as a politician." Not "diplomatic as a peacekeeper." Bold.

Real leadership requires backbone. It requires courage. It requires the willingness to stand up and say, "This is wrong, and I'm not going along with it."

Even if you're the only one.

The Secret Plan That Never Works

Reuben had a secret plan. He was going to come back later and fix everything. He was going to rescue Joseph when his brothers weren't looking.

But secret plans don't work when the situation requires immediate action.

Sometimes you can't wait for a better moment. Sometimes you can't fix things behind the scenes. Sometimes you have to stand up right now and take the hit.

I've made this mistake myself. I've seen something wrong and told myself, "I'll deal with it later. I'll fix it when the timing is better." And you know what happened? The situation got worse. The damage spread. And by the time I finally acted, it was too late to undo what had already been done.

Reuben's plan might have worked if everything had gone perfectly. But life doesn't go perfectly. And leadership doesn't allow you the luxury of waiting for the perfect moment.

If you know something is wrong, say something now.

If you see someone being hurt, step in now.

If God is calling you to take a stand, take it now.

Not later. Not when it's more convenient. Not when the crowd is on your side.

Now.

Going Against the Flow

Here's the hard truth: If you stand for what's right, you're going to stand alone sometimes.

Reuben was afraid of that. He was afraid to go against his brothers. He was afraid to be the odd man out. So he compromised, thinking he could have it both ways.

But you can't.

When everyone else is going in the wrong direction, you have to be willing to turn around and walk the other way. Even if they mock you. Even if they reject you. Even if they call you self-righteous or judgmental or out of touch.

I've been there. I've taken stands that cost me friendships. I've said things that made people angry. I've missed out on opportunities because I wouldn't compromise on what I knew was right.

And I'd do it again.

Because at the end of the day, I don't answer to the crowd. I answer to God.

And so do you.

Galatians 1:10 "For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ."

You can't serve God and the crowd at the same time. You have to choose.

And if you choose to follow Christ, you have to be willing to stand even when everyone else sits down.

The Difference Between Reuben and Joseph

Here's what makes this story even more powerful: Joseph found himself in the same situations that should have broken him, yet he never compromised.

Reuben compromised to avoid conflict. Joseph stood firm even when it cost him everything.

Joseph could have gone along with Potiphar's wife and kept his position. But he didn't. He ran. He lost his job. He ended up in prison. And he did it because he refused to compromise his integrity.

Joseph could have grown bitter in that prison. He could have blamed God. He could have given up on his dreams. But he didn't. He kept his attitude right. He kept serving. He kept believing.

And in the end, God exalted Joseph to a place of influence that Reuben never reached.

Because God doesn't honor half-hearted obedience. He honors those who stand firm no matter what it costs.

Don't Be a Reuben

I'm not writing this to shame anyone who's struggled with courage. I've been Reuben more times than I'd like to admit.

But I am writing this to challenge you: Don't settle for half-hearted bravery.

Don't compromise with evil because you're afraid of conflict. Don't go along with the crowd because you're afraid of standing alone. Don't tell yourself you'll fix it later when you know you need to act now.

If God is calling you to take a stand, take it. Even if your voice shakes. Even if you're the only one. Even if it costs you.

Because at the end of the day, the only approval that matters is God's.

And He's not looking for politicians. He's looking for leaders. Bold, courageous, backbone-having leaders who will stand for what's right no matter what.

Be that leader.

Don't be a Reuben.

FAQ

What can I learn from Reuben's mistake in Genesis 37?

Reuben's mistake teaches us that half-hearted courage isn't real courage. Good intentions aren't enough if we're not willing to stand up to what's wrong. Leadership requires backbone, not compromise.

How can I find the courage to stand alone when everyone else disagrees?

Remember that you're not standing alone; God is with you. Focus on pleasing Him rather than pleasing people. The crowd's approval is temporary, but God's approval lasts forever.

What if I've already compromised like Reuben did?

Confess it to God and commit to doing better going forward. God is in the business of redeeming our failures. Learn from Reuben's mistake and determine that next time, you'll have the courage to stand firm from the start.

Ready to grow stronger in your leadership? Check out more practical wisdom on ministry and leadership over at Alignment Ministries , and don't miss the Followed by Mercy podcast, where we dig deeper into living out grace-centered, courageous faith: followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com .

I Have Decided: The Foundation of the Austin Gardner Story

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 12:45:01 GMT

The Day a Young Boy Said Yes to Jesus—and Never Looked Back

The Austin Gardner Story did not begin in a crowded mission hall or on a large stage before thousands. Instead, it started in the quiet, humble setting of a small church when I was only eleven years old. I remember the atmosphere clearly. The air felt heavy with the scent of old wood and hymnals. As the congregation began to sing the familiar lines of "I Have Decided to Follow Jesus," something shifted deep within my young heart. I was not thinking about a fifty-year legacy or the complexities of global ministry. I simply knew that I wanted to belong to Him. That moment of childhood faith became the bedrock for everything that followed.

Many people look at a long life of service and see only the finished results. However, the true beauty of any spiritual journey lies in its beginning. When I made that early commitment, I had no idea that God would take a young boy from a simple background and lead him across the world. Specifically, that decision at eleven years old provided a steady anchor through decades of pastoral work, church planting in the mountains of Peru, and the eventual transition into a ministry focused on grace. When we look at the long-term Austin Gardner Reviews of a life dedicated to God, the constant theme is not my own strength, but His unwavering faithfulness.

The Simplicity of a Childhood Commitment

Childhood faith possesses a purity that we often lose as we grow older and more "religious." At eleven, I did not have a checklist of rules to follow or a theological degree to defend. I only had a Savior who loved me. Consequently, that simple trust allowed me to say "yes" to God before I knew what the "yes" would cost or where it would lead. This is the heart of the Austin Gardner Story . It is a narrative of a young boy who believed God was good and spent the next half-century discovering just how deep that goodness goes.

We often complicate the Christian walk with performance-based metrics. We think we must achieve a certain level of maturity before God can use us. On the contrary, Jesus invited the little children to come to Him precisely because they understand something adults often forget: dependency. That day in the church pews, I wasn't promising God that I would be perfect. I was simply deciding that I wouldn't go back to a life without Him.

Lamentations 3:22-23 “It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”

Reviewing Fifty Years of God’s Mercy

When I sit down to conduct an honest review of my life and ministry, the evidence of God’s mercy is overwhelming. For over fifty years, I have walked the path of ministry, serving as a pastor and a missionary. Much of that time was spent in the mountains and cities of Peru, where we saw churches planted and lives transformed. However, the most significant transformation often happened within my own soul. Looking back at various Austin Gardner Reviews from students, colleagues, and friends, I see a common thread: the shift from doing things for God to resting in what God has done for me.

Early in my ministry, I often felt the pressure to perform. I thought that my consistency determined my worth in God’s eyes. I became legalistic because I loved God and was afraid of losing Him. But as the decades passed, the Holy Spirit began to peel away those layers of fear. I realized that the decision I made at eleven wasn't a contract I had to fulfill through my own effort; it was an invitation into a relationship sustained by His grace.

Shifting from Performance to the Finished Work

The most pivotal chapter of the Austin Gardner Story involves the realization that the "Christian life" is not a ladder to be climbed. It is a rest to be enjoyed. For years, I pushed myself and others toward a standard of perfection that no human can reach. I eventually learned that the Law was never meant to be our power; it was meant to lead us to the end of ourselves.

This realization changed the way I mentored young leaders through Alignment Ministries. I stopped telling them how to work harder and started telling them how to rest better. If you find yourself

struggling under the weight of religious expectations, I encourage you to read about The Big Leap of Faith . Believing that God loves you exactly as you are is the most radical decision you will ever make. It is the only way to find true freedom from the "invisible trap" of people-pleasing and performance.

Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”

Facing the Storms with an Eleven-Year-Old’s Faith

A fifty-year legacy is not built only in the sun-drenched moments of success. It is forged in the dark valleys. My journey has included battling Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and surviving a severe bout of COVID-19. During those times, when my body was weak and the future was uncertain, I found myself returning to the same simplicity I had at eleven years old. I couldn't "perform" for God from a hospital bed. I couldn't plant a church while struggling to breathe.

In those moments, the Austin Gardner Story wasn't about what I was doing for the Kingdom. It was about the King holding me. I had to preach to myself the truths I now share with you: "God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency." These tumors and trials are not bigger than God’s grace. When the world "canceled" my strength, His mercy remained.

The Long-Term Review of a Life Dedicated to God

What does a life look like after fifty years of following Jesus? It looks like a man who is more convinced of his need for grace today than he was the day he first believed. When people search for Austin Gardner Reviews , my hope is that they don't see a "self-made" man or a "hero of the faith." I want them to see a trophy of God's patience.

The decision to follow Jesus is not a one-time event that ends at the altar; it is a daily surrendering to the fact that He has already followed us with His goodness. Every church planted in Peru, every book written, and every leader mentored is simply fruit grown from the seed planted in a young boy’s heart in that small country church.

“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

An Invitation to Your Own Decision

Perhaps you are reading this, and you feel far from that "childhood faith." Maybe the years have made you cynical, or the weight of your own failures has made you feel like you’ve disqualified yourself from God's story. I want to tell you that the same Jesus who met an eleven-year-old boy in a wooden pew is running toward you today.

Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention. You don't have to fix yourself before you come to Him. Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself; rest comes first. Whether you are at the beginning of your journey or looking back on decades of struggle, the foundation remains the same. He is good, He is for you, and He is enough.

The Austin Gardner Story is still being written, and it is a story of grace. I invite you to stop carrying the corpse of your past mistakes and start walking in the light of the finished work of Christ. He has decided to love you forever. Will you decide to rest in that love?

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired the Austin Gardner Story to focus so heavily on grace?

The shift toward grace came after years of realizing that legalism and performance-based religion only lead to burnout and fear. After fifty years in ministry and facing life-threatening health challenges, I discovered that God's love is unconditional and not based on my own effort or consistency.

How did a childhood decision lead to a fifty-year ministry?

That early commitment at age eleven provided a spiritual foundation that guided my choices throughout my life. Even when I strayed into performance-thinking, the core relationship with Christ remained, eventually blossoming into a global ministry of church planting and mentoring.

What can we learn from Austin Gardner's reviews of long-term ministry?

The primary takeaway from reviewing decades of ministry is that God is incredibly faithful even when we are weak. A legacy isn't built on human perfection, but on a consistent reliance on God's mercy and a willingness to be transformed by His love over time.

#AustinGardner #Grace #FaithJourney #MinistryLegacy #FollowedByMercy

Austin Gardner Reviews: Life Lessons from the Johnson Grass

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:45:03 GMT

How a Farm Field Revealed the Difference Between Performance and Grace

If you have ever spent a summer on a farm, you know that some things are harder to kill than others. I grew up understanding the rhythm of the seasons and the stubbornness of the earth. Out of all the things that tried to take over a field, nothing was quite as persistent as Johnson Grass. It looks innocent enough when it first sprouts, looking like any other green blade reaching for the sun. However, if you have been around the block a few times, you know that what you see on the surface is only a fraction of the story.

In this edition of Austin Gardner Reviews , I want to take you back to those dusty fields to uncover a spiritual truth that changed how I view ministry and personal growth. We often spend our lives trying to look good on the outside while something destructive is spreading deep beneath the surface. The Austin Gardner Story has always been about more than just outward success; it is about the quiet, often painful work of letting God deal with our roots.

The Deception of the Surface

When I was a young man, I thought that if I could just keep the "weeds" of my life trimmed down, I was doing well. I focused on my behavior, my schedule, and my reputation. I was essentially taking a lawnmower to my soul. It looked neat for a Sunday morning, but by Tuesday, the same old frustrations and fears were poking their heads back up.

Johnson Grass is a perennial plant that spreads through massive underground stems called rhizomes. You can chop off the top a thousand times, and it will only come back thicker and stronger. It thrives on being ignored. Many of us treat our walk with God the same way. We "mow" our anger, we "trim" our pride, and we "prune" our habits, yet we wonder why we never feel truly free.

Hebrews 12:15 “Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;”

If we don’t get to the root, the "bitterness" or the "sin" will always return. Real growth doesn't happen by managing your appearance; it happens by allowing the Holy Spirit to dig deep into the soil of your heart.

Austin Gardner Reviews the Cost of Legalism

For many years, I lived under the heavy weight of performance-based religion. I thought that if I worked harder and did more, God would love me more. Consequently, I became a master at "mowing" my life. I had the right vocabulary and outward actions, but beneath the surface, the roots of fear and self-reliance were choking out my joy.

I didn't become legalistic because I hated grace. I became legalistic because I loved God and was afraid of losing Him. I thought I had to protect my relationship with Him by being perfect. But the truth is, you cannot mow your way to holiness. You cannot perform your way into a peace that only comes through the finished work of Jesus Christ.

When we focus only on the surface, we lose our integrity. Integrity is not just doing the right thing when people are watching; it is being the same person at the root that you are at the leaf. In the Austin Gardner Story , I had to learn that God wasn't interested in my neatly trimmed lawn if the soil was full of dead men’s bones. He wanted the real me: the messy, rooted, honest version of Austin Gardner.

Digging Deep in the Mission Field

During my years as a missionary in the mountains and cities of Peru, I saw this principle play out in leadership. I would see young men with incredible talent and charismatic personalities start churches, only to see those works crumble a few years later. Why? Because they had focused on the "top" of their ministry: the attendance, the buildings, the excitement, without tending to the "roots" of their character.

Growth requires depth. If a plant grows too high without a corresponding root system, the first wind that blows will knock it over. I have faced many storms in my life, from the challenges of church planting to surviving Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and a severe bout with COVID. If my faith had been based only on my outward performance or my "success" as a speaker, those storms would have leveled me.

Instead, those trials forced me to dig deeper. They forced me to ask, "What am I actually rooted in?" If you are rooted in your ability to perform, you will live in constant anxiety. However, if you are rooted in the unconditional love of God, you can stand firm even when the world around you is shaking.

Integrity and the Hidden Life

Integrity is a word we throw around a lot, but it literally means "wholeness." A person of integrity is "integer": whole, not divided. The Johnson Grass is a divided plant; what you see isn't the whole story. A life of integrity is one where the root and the fruit match.

In my journey of finding peace when you are falsely accused , I learned that your reputation is what people think of you, but your character is what God knows of you. People can mow your reputation down to the dirt. They can spray poison on your name and try to kill your influence. But if your roots are healthy: if you are tucked away in the secret place with the Father: you will grow back.

“God’s mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope.”

We often fear the digging process. We don't want to look at the roots of our trauma, our insecurity, or our secret sins. But God is a master gardener. He doesn't dig to destroy us; He digs to deliver us. He wants to pull out the Johnson Grass of legalism and self-effort so that He can plant the seeds of His Spirit.

Resting in the Root of Grace

The most beautiful part of this realization is that the work of "uprooting" isn't even something we do by our own strength. If you try to pull up Johnson Grass by yourself, you will likely leave a piece of the root behind, and it will just start all over again. The only way to truly clear the field is to let the Owner of the field do the work.

We have to take the big leap of faith and believe that God loves us exactly as we are, right now, with all our messy roots. Transformation doesn't come from your effort; it flows from your union with Christ. When you realize that you are already accepted, already loved, and already held, you stop trying to "fix" yourself and start letting Him change you.

Romans 6:6 “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.”

The "old man" is the root that was already dealt with at the Cross. Our job is to walk in the reality of what Jesus has already done. We don't have to live in fear of the weeds. We can live in the freedom of the harvest.

Austin Gardner Reviews: The Path Forward

As I look back on the Austin Gardner Story , I see a lot of fields I tried to manage on my own. I see the years I spent exhausted, trying to keep every blade of grass in place. But today, I stand in a place of rest. I have learned that the best way to handle the Johnson Grass of life is to surrender the field to the Father.

If you are tired of the constant cycle of "mowing" your behavior only to see the same old problems return, stop. Stop the performance. Stop the striving. Let the Lord look at the roots. It might be uncomfortable for a season, but the fruit that comes from a healthy root is worth every bit of the digging.

Remember, you are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held. Whether you are leading a ministry or just trying to get through the day, God’s mercy is running toward you with intention.

FAQ

What does it mean to get to the "root" of sin instead of just the surface?

Getting to the root means identifying the beliefs and fears that drive our behavior. Often, we sin because we are trying to meet a valid need (like security or love) in an invalid way. Instead of just stopping the action, we must allow God to heal the underlying belief that He isn't enough to satisfy us.

How can I tell if I am living in legalism or true faith?

Legalism is characterized by pressure, fear, and a focus on "doing" to be accepted. True faith is characterized by rest, joy, and a focus on "being" loved by God, which naturally leads to healthy actions. If your spiritual life feels like a heavy burden you have to carry, you might be focused on the surface instead of the root of grace.

Why does Austin Gardner emphasize "resting in the finished work"?

Because Jesus said, "It is finished." He didn't say, "It has started, now you finish it." When we rest in His finished work, we acknowledge that our salvation and our standing with God are completely secure because of His effort, not ours. This security is the only thing that provides the stability needed for real, lasting growth.

#AustinGardner #Grace #FaithBasedDevelopment #FollowedByMercy #ChristianGrowth

The Austin Gardner Story: From a Shack on the River to 50 Years of Ministry

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:45:06 GMT

A Story of Poverty, Redemption, and the Mercy That Followed Every Step

Every person has a starting point, a place where the roots of their character first take hold in the soil of experience. When people look at the Austin Gardner Story , they often see the highlights of fifty years in ministry, the dozens of churches planted in Peru, or the thousands of leaders mentored across the globe. However, the true foundation of this journey didn't begin on a platform or in a crowded cathedral. Instead, it began in a small, humble shack on the edge of a river.

Life in that shack wasn't just about financial poverty; it was about a family learning what it meant to depend entirely on God's goodness. We often think that greatness requires a head start or a silver spoon. Yet, God frequently chooses the "lowly things of the world" to show His power. My early years were defined by the sound of the water and the quiet weight of a father trying to find his way back to his Creator.

A Choice Between Wealth and Wisdom

The defining moment of my childhood wasn't a graduation or a promotion. It was a sacrifice. My father held a high-paying job that provided comfort but threatened his soul. He struggled with alcoholism, a battle that many families know all too well. Consequently, he realized that he could not stay sober or keep God first while remaining in that environment.

In a move that most would call "crazy," my father walked away from his lucrative career. He chose to move us to a farm where he earned a meager $400 a year. We traded financial security for spiritual survival. This decision laid the groundwork for everything I believe about ministry today. He taught me that following Jesus isn't about what you can gain, but about what you are willing to surrender to keep your heart right with Him.

Psalm 34:6 “This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.”

That verse wasn't just words on a page in our house; it was our daily reality. We lived the truth that God is enough, even when the bank account is empty. Because of his sacrifice, I grew up watching a man find victory over addiction through the power of the Gospel. That victory is the "secret sauce" of the Austin Gardner Story.

Learning Resilience in the Dirt

Living on a farm with almost nothing teaches you a specific kind of resilience. You learn to work when you're tired and to trust God when the rain doesn't fall. For instance, those years in the shack and on the farm prepared me for the rugged mountains of Peru. When Betty and I eventually moved to South America to plant churches, we didn't fear the lack of modern conveniences. We had already lived through it.

Many people searching for Austin Gardner Reviews are looking for the "why" behind the ministry. They want to know why someone would spend decades in difficult terrain or invest so heavily in the next generation. The answer lies in those early days. When you start with nothing, you realize that everything you have is a gift of pure mercy.

I learned early on that ministry is not a performance; it is a response to being loved. My father didn't quit his job to "earn" God’s favor. He quit because he realized God loved him too much to let him destroy himself. This shift from performance to rest is something I discuss in depth in my article, The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are .

The Foundation of Fifty Years

Fifty years of ministry sounds like a long time, and I suppose it is. However, those years have passed in the blink of an eye because they were fueled by a simple mission: telling people that God is good. From the shack on the river to the bustling streets of Arequipa, the message has never changed.

During our twenty years in Peru, we saw the Lord do the impossible. We watched over 70 churches take root. We saw lives transformed, not by legalism or rules, but by the radical grace of Jesus Christ. People often ask about the "strategy" behind such growth. Truthfully, the strategy was simply to stay a little longer and love a little harder, rooted in the resilience I learned in my youth.

Lamentations 3:22-23 “It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”

Why the Past Matters Today

You might wonder why I still talk about a shack on a river after half a century. I talk about it because I want you to know that your current circumstances do not limit your future impact. Perhaps you feel "canceled" by your past or stuck in an "invisible" season of struggle. I have been there. Whether it was the poverty of my youth or surviving Stage 4 Kidney Cancer and COVID-19 in recent years, the theme remains the same: God is for you.

When people look at the legacy of our work, they see the training centers and the books like Rising Above the Hurt. But I want them to see the mercy that followed me from that riverbank.

“Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention.”

If you are struggling today, remember that my father found victory in a $400-a-year farm life. He found something better than money; he found peace. That is the invitation for you as well. You don't have to fix yourself to find God's rest. Rest comes first.

Moving Toward the Next Chapter

Today, through Alignment Ministries , I spend my time coaching and mentoring young leaders. I tell them the same things I'm telling you. Don't build a ministry on your own strength. Build it on the finished work of Jesus. If you feel like you are failing the "test" of Christian performance, stop taking the test. Jesus already passed it for you.

We are all just people coming out of our own version of a "shack." Whether your shack was physical poverty, emotional trauma, or religious legalism, there is a way out. The way out is not a staircase you climb; it is a hand that reaches down.

Austin Gardner Reviews: A Legacy of Grace

When someone "reviews" a life, they shouldn't just look at the successes. They should look at the scars. My scars tell a story of a God who doesn't give up. They tell a story of a boy from a river shack who was held by a love he didn't earn and couldn't lose.

As I continue to write and speak, my goal is to help you find that same security. I want to help you escape the invisible trap of the fear of man and walk in the freedom of being a child of God. The Austin Gardner Story isn't about a great man; it's about a great God who does wonderful things with small beginnings.

Philippians 1:6 “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held. Whether you are in a season of abundance or sitting in your own version of that shack, know that His mercy is after you right now. It is ready to bring real grace and honest hope to your situation.

FAQ about the Austin Gardner Story

What were Austin Gardner's early years like?

Austin grew up in significant poverty, living in a shack on a river. His father eventually chose to leave a high-paying job to move the family to a farm for $400 a year to focus on his sobriety and his relationship with God.

How did his father's struggle with alcoholism affect him?

It served as a powerful testimony of God's power to transform lives. Seeing his father choose spiritual health over financial wealth gave Austin a foundation of resilience and a deep trust in God's provision that lasted throughout 50 years of ministry.

What is the main message of Austin Gardner's ministry today?

His current ministry focuses on the "finished work" of Christ and the theme of being "Followed by Mercy." He encourages people to move away from performance-based religion and find rest in God's unconditional love.

Where can I find more resources on Austin's journey?

You can explore his blog for more stories of faith, or check out his books, such as Rising Above the Hurt, which detail his experiences with resilience, including his recent battles with Stage 4 cancer.

#AustinGardnerStory #FollowedByMercy #FaithJourney #MinistryLegacy #GraceCenteredLiving

Three Brushes with Death: The Austin Gardner Faith and Resilience Journey

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:45:00 GMT

How Cancer, COVID, and Crisis Stripped Away Performance and Revealed the Grace of God

Most people spend their lives trying to avoid the edge. We build walls, save money, and plan our futures to keep death at a distance. But sometimes, God allows the edge to come to us. I have stood on that precipice three distinct times, looking into the eyes of eternity. These moments didn’t just test my pulse; they dismantled my theology and rebuilt it on the solid rock of grace.

The Austin Gardner Story is not a tale of a "super-Christian" who muscled his way through hardship. Instead, it is a raw account of a man who ran out of strength and found that God was more than enough. After fifty years in ministry, I thought I knew who God was. I thought He was a Master who required my constant performance. However, through Stage 4 cancer and a battle with COVID-19 that nearly took my last breath, I learned that He is a Father who simply loves His children.

The First Shadow: Facing Stage 4 Kidney Cancer

When the doctor tells you that you have five tumors in your kidney and the cancer has reached Stage 4, the world stops spinning. Suddenly, your long-term plans for ministry and missions don't seem so urgent. Specifically, the reality of your own frailty hits you like a freight train. I had spent decades traveling the world, planting churches in Peru, and mentoring leaders, but I couldn't "do" my way out of this diagnosis.

During those dark days, I had to confront a hard truth. I realized I was a "soul-tired" man who had been running on the fumes of religious performance. I was trying to earn a seat at the table that Jesus had already bought for me. Consequently, the cancer became a strange kind of mercy. It forced me to stop. In the stillness of the hospital room, I heard the Lord whispering that I was loved for who I am, not for what I could achieve.

Psalm 23:6 “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.”

I began to say to myself, “These tumors are not bigger than God’s grace.” This wasn't just a catchy phrase. It was a lifeline. If my life ended there, I was secure. If it continued, it would be by His hand alone. This was the beginning of my shift from pain to praise.

Twenty-One Days on a Ventilator

If cancer was a long, slow shadow, COVID-19 was a sudden, violent storm. I found myself in an ICU bed, unable to draw a single breath on my own. For twenty-one days, a machine breathed for me while I hovered between this world and the next. This was my second major brush with death, and it was perhaps the most humbling experience of my life.

Coming off a ventilator isn't like waking up from a nap. You wake up to a body that has forgotten how to function. I had to relearn how to swallow. I had to relearn how to speak. I had to relearn how to walk. Meanwhile, the enemy of our souls loves to use physical weakness to breed spiritual doubt. He whispered that I was finished, that my voice was gone, and that my ministry was over.

However, the Austin Gardner Faith and Resilience journey is rooted in the finished work of Christ. Even when I couldn't speak His name, He held my hand. I discovered that God's love is not a reward for our strength; it is a gift for our weakness. I was not being graded on my recovery. I was being held by a Savior who had already conquered death.

Rebuilding from the Ashes

Recovery was a slow, grueling process. There were days when the physical pain felt unbearable, and the mental fog felt permanent. Yet, in that valley, the message of "Pain to Praise" became my daily bread. I started writing again, not out of a sense of duty, but out of an overflow of gratitude. I realized that many ministry leaders are trapped in the same invisible cage of performance that I had lived in for years.

I wrote about this in my book, Rising Above the Hurt . We often think that if we suffer, we must have done something wrong. Or, we think that if we aren't "joyful" every second, we are failing God. But true resilience isn't about pretending it doesn't hurt. It is about taking that hurt to the cross and watching God turn it into a platform for His mercy.

The Shift from Performance to Peace

After fifty years of ministry, these brushes with death finally broke my legalism. I used to think I had to pray longer, work harder, and reach more people to stay in God's good graces. I didn't become legalistic because I hated grace; I became legalistic because I loved God and was afraid of losing Him. I felt I had to maintain a certain level of "success" to prove my worth.

Now, I understand The Big Leap of Faith : believing God loves you exactly as you are. Whether I am standing on a stage in Peru or lying in a hospital bed with tubes in my chest, His love for me does not change. This is the heart of the Austin Gardner Story . It is a story of a man who stopped trying to be a hero and started being a son.

Romans 8:38-39 “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Why Resilience Matters for You

You might not be facing Stage 4 cancer today. You might not be on a ventilator. But everyone faces a "brush with death" in some form, the death of a dream, the death of a relationship, or the death of your reputation. When you are canceled by those you thought were friends, or when your health fails, you find out what you really believe.

Resilience is not a muscle you build in the gym; it is a grace you receive in the furnace. If you are feeling "soul-tired" today, please hear me: Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first. You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held by the same hands that held me through twenty-one days of silence.

The Third Brush: A New Perspective on Ministry

The third brush with death is perhaps less about a specific medical event and more about the cumulative realization that my time is short. Every day is now a gift I didn't expect to have. This has fundamentally changed how I mentor leaders through Alignment Ministries . I no longer want to help people build bigger organizations; I want to help them build deeper lives.

We must move away from the "fear of man" and the "invisible trap" of trying to please everyone. When you have looked death in the face, the opinions of people lose their power over you. What matters is the unconditional love of the Father. My goal now is to share the "Followed by Mercy" message with anyone who will listen.

A Message of Assurance

I want to leave you with this: God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency or your productivity. He is your Father, and He is for you. Whether you are in a season of "Pain" or a season of "Praise," His mercy is running toward you with intention.

The Austin Gardner Faith and Resilience journey is proof that God can take the messiest, most broken parts of our lives and use them to reveal His beauty. You can rest today. Christ is enough. He has already won the victory over the grave, and He is walking beside you through whatever fire you are facing right now.

FAQ: Faith and Resilience in Times of Suffering

How did Austin Gardner maintain his faith during 21 days on a ventilator?

It wasn't about "maintaining" faith through effort, but rather about resting in the fact that God was holding him when he couldn't hold on to God. He focused on the truth that God’s love is unconditional and independent of our physical or mental strength.

What does "Pain to Praise" mean in the Austin Gardner Story?

It refers to the spiritual transformation in which suffering is not ignored but used as a catalyst to experience God's grace more deeply. It is the journey of moving from the agony of trial to the heartfelt praise of a Savior who never leaves our side.

How can ministry leaders avoid becoming "soul-tired"?

Austin emphasizes shifting from a performance-based approach to a grace-based identity. By realizing that we are loved for who we are in Christ, not what we do for Him, we can find true rest and avoid the burnout of religious legalism.

#AustinGardner #FaithAndResilience #PainToPraise #GodsGrace #FollowedByMercy

The Counsel of Destruction: Who Is Whispering in Your Ear?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:45:01 GMT

How the Voices You Listen To Can Shape Your Faith, Your Family, and Your Future

Life is incredibly loud, isn't it? Every single day, we are bombarded by voices telling us how to think, how to spend our money, and how to raise our families. In my years of ministry, I, Austin Gardner, have seen how these voices act like a rudder on a ship. They might seem small at first, but they eventually determine exactly where your life ends up. If you want to experience true faith-based development and find satisfaction in Jesus, you have to get honest about who has your ear.

The Bible gives us a chilling example of what happens when the wrong person does the whispering. It’s the story of a young king named Ahaziah. He had everything going for him: a kingdom, a legacy, and a position of leadership. However, he also had a counselor who led him straight into a brick wall.

The Mother Who Counseled Wickedness

When we think of a mother’s influence, we usually think of something nurturing and holy. But the story of Ahaziah takes a dark turn.

2 Chronicles 22:3 “He also walked in the ways of the house of Ahab: for his mother was his counsellor to do wickedly.”

Imagine that for a moment. His own mother, the person who should have been pointing him toward the goodness of God, was the very one whispering "do wickedly" in his ear. Consequently, Ahaziah didn’t just make a few mistakes; he walked in the ways of the most wicked king God’s people ever knew.

Parents have a tremendous influence on what their children do. It isn't just about the lectures we give or the Sunday School lessons we drive them to. Our children are experts at reading the "counsel" of our examples. If we say we love God but live like the world, they will hear the counsel of our actions much louder than the counsel of our words.

The Legacy of Destruction

The tragedy didn't stop with his mother. After his father died, Ahaziah kept the same inner circle. These people didn't care about his soul or his success as a leader; they were interested in maintaining the status quo of the house of Ahab.

2 Chronicles 22:4 “Wherefore he did evil in the sight of the LORD like the house of Ahab: for they were his counsellors after the death of his father to his destruction.”

Notice that specific word: destruction. Their advice didn't just lead to a bad policy or a temporary setback. It led to the undoing of his work and the complete collapse of his legacy. When we listen to the wrong people, we aren't just risking a bad afternoon. We are risking the very things God has called us to build.

In my own life, navigating things like Stage 4 cancer and the trials of the ministry, I’ve realized that I cannot afford "trash" in my ears. When you are in a fight for your life, spiritually or physically, you need voices that speak grace, truth, and the finished work of Jesus Christ.

Question One: Who Are Your Counselors?

This brings me to the first big question I have to ask myself and you: Who are your counselors?

Specifically, who do you listen to when the chips are down? Where do you go to make decisions?

Psalm 1:1 “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.”

If you are filling your mind with the "wisdom" of a world that ignores God, don't be surprised when your life feels chaotic. Alternatively, when we seek godly counsel, we align ourselves with a plan that cannot be shaken.

Psalm 33:11 “The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.”

Wrong counsel leads to a demise. We see this warning throughout the Psalms. People often fall by their own counsels because they refuse to look upward.

Psalm 5:10 “Destroy thou them, O God; let them fall by their own counsels; cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions; for they have rebelled against thee.”

Do you spend time in prayer and the Word before making a move? Or do you run to social media, or to friends who will just tell you what you want to hear? Seeking God is not a religious chore; it is the path to peace. You can find more about this journey toward resting in Him in The Big Leap of Faith .

The Danger of Ignoring God’s Voice

Many people today struggle because they have ignored the counsel of the Most High. They try to figure out life on their own terms, but the result is always the same: exhaustion and emptiness.

Psalm 107:11 “Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High.”

When we "contemn" or despise God's counsel, we are essentially saying we know better than the Creator of the universe. That is a dangerous place to be. We need to run to the nearest place to find God’s will and obey Him. This isn't about legalism or trying to earn God's favor. Instead, it's about recognizing that His ways are actually better for us.

Proverbs 11:14 “Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.”

Question Two: What Type of Counsel Are You Giving?

The second question is just as vital: What type of counsel are you giving to those who listen to you?

Specifically, I’m talking about your children, your grandkids, and the people you mentor. Ahaziah’s mother counseled him to do wrong, and he suffered the consequences.

I wonder what your children are learning from you today. They learn from what you say, but they learn significantly more from what you do. If they followed your example, would they love the Bible? Would they value a quiet time with God?

Do you challenge and motivate them to seek God’s will for their life? Or are you subtly counseling them to prioritize money, status, and comfort over the call of God? We are all being counseled and counseling others. Every interaction is an opportunity to point someone toward the grace of Jesus.

Leading From a Place of Grace

I want to be clear: this isn't about putting more pressure on you to be "perfect." If you’ve given bad advice in the past, or if you’ve listened to the wrong voices, there is mercy for you right now. As I often say, "Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first."

When we understand that we are loved unconditionally by the Father, our desire to seek His counsel changes. We no longer seek His will because we are afraid of being punished; we seek it because we trust His heart. He is a good Father. His counsel isn't meant to restrict us; it’s meant to protect us and give us a life of abundance.

Proverbs 19:21 “There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.”

Choose Wisely Today

These are difficult days. Counsel abounds everywhere you look. But does that counsel please God? If the voices in your life are leading you away from peace, away from your spouse, or away from the Word of God, it’s time to change who you’re listening to.

Today, let’s examine ourselves. Are we pleasing God? Are we doing right? Let's choose to be the kind of people whose counsel leads to life and whose lives are guided by the steady, loving hand of our Savior. You are not behind, and you are not being graded. You are simply being invited into a better way of living.

“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

Take heart. God’s mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope into your decision-making. Trust His counsel. It’s the only one that stands forever.

FAQ: Understanding Godly Counsel

How do I know if the advice I’m getting is truly godly?

Godly counsel will always align with the Word of God and the character of Jesus. If the advice encourages pride, bitterness, or walking away from your biblical responsibilities, it is not from God. Look for counsel that promotes peace, holiness, and a deeper trust in the finished work of Christ.

What should I do if I’ve already followed bad counsel?

The beauty of the Gospel is that God is the Master of restoration. Stop following the wrong path today, confess it to the Lord, and rest in His forgiveness. He can take the "destruction" caused by bad choices and build something beautiful out of the ruins.

How can I become a better counselor for my children?

The best way to counsel your children is to let them see you depending on God. Let them see you reading your Bible, hear you praying, and watch you respond to trials with faith rather than fear. Your life is the most powerful sermon they will ever hear.

#AustinGardner #FaithBasedDevelopment #GodlyCounsel #Grace #Mercy

The Leader's Secret Weapon: Why Forgiveness is Your Greatest Power Move

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:45:00 GMT

How releasing resentment frees your heart, restores trust in your team, and allows you to lead with the clarity and strength that only grace can produce.

Here's something most leadership books won't tell you: The leader who can't forgive is a leader who won't last.

I've spent 50+ years in ministry and 20 years on the mission field in Peru. I've watched promising leaders flame out not because they lacked vision or skill, but because they couldn't release the weight of bitterness. They collected wounds like trophies and wondered why their teams stopped trusting them.

Forgiveness isn't soft. It's strategic.

Joseph Didn't Forgive Because He Was Nice

Let's talk about Joseph. You know the story: favored son, betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, falsely accused, thrown in prison. Twenty-five years of injustice.

When his brothers finally showed up in Egypt, begging for food, Joseph had every right to destroy them. He had the power. He had the position. He had the perfect setup for revenge.

But here's what W. Austin Gardner explores in his deep dive on leadership and forgiveness : Joseph didn't forgive because he was a nice guy. He forgave because he understood something most leaders miss: bitterness is a prison you build for yourself .

Joseph knew that leadership wasn't about settling scores. It was about seeing God's bigger story.

Genesis 50:20 says it all: "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive."

Joseph released his brothers not because they deserved it, but because he refused to let their betrayal define his leadership.

Forgiveness Is Your Competitive Advantage

Research backs this up. Leaders who practice forgiveness make clearer decisions, reduce stress, and create cultures where people innovate without fear. When you hold grudges, you're spending mental energy on yesterday's wounds instead of tomorrow's vision.

Christian leadership development isn't just about skills and strategy. It's about emotional freedom. A leader carrying resentment is a leader making reactive decisions. A forgiving leader has the mental and spiritual clarity to lead with wisdom.

I've seen it firsthand. When I went through Stage 4 cancer and COVID back-to-back, I learned that holding onto bitterness takes energy you can't afford to waste . Forgiveness isn't weakness; it's oxygen for your soul.

Build Trust or Build Walls

Here's the deal: Leadership in the church (or anywhere, really) rises and falls on trust. And trust doesn't grow in an environment where mistakes become permanent marks.

When leaders model forgiveness, they signal to their teams: "It's safe to fail here. We can learn together. Growth matters more than perfection."

Joseph could have led through fear. Instead, he led through grace. His brothers feared punishment, but he offered provision. That's what ministry leadership training should look like: grace loud, pressure quiet.

You want loyalty? Forgive publicly. You want creativity? Let people know mistakes won't end them. You want a team that runs toward challenges instead of away from them? Release the past.

The Power Move You Can't Afford to Skip

Forgiveness doesn't mean ignoring accountability. It means refusing to let someone's failure become your obsession. Joseph held his brothers accountable; he tested them, but he didn't hold them hostage.

The difference between surviving leaders and thriving leaders often comes down to this: Can you release what was done to you?

If you're carrying the weight of someone's betrayal, offense, or failure, you're not leading, you're managing resentment. And resentment doesn't build teams. It builds walls.

I've walked this road for decades. I know what it's like to be hurt by people you trusted. I also know what it's like to lead from a place of freedom instead of fear. That's what I unpack in the full article on waustingardner.com , how forgiveness in the Bible verses like Joseph's story isn't just theology, it's leadership gold.

If you're serious about growing as a leader, start here: Release the grudge. Lead from grace. Watch what happens next.

FAQ: Leadership and Forgiveness

Why is forgiveness important in leadership?

Forgiveness frees you from emotional fatigue and mental clutter, allowing you to make clearer, more strategic decisions. It also builds trust and psychological safety in your team.

Doesn't forgiveness make you look weak as a leader?

No. Forgiveness is strength. It takes courage to release bitterness and lead from grace instead of control. Weak leaders hold grudges. Strong leaders hold vision.

How can I practice forgiveness in ministry leadership?

Start by recognizing that unforgiveness drains your leadership energy. Choose to release offenses: not because people deserve it, but because you need the freedom. Then model that grace publicly so your team knows they can grow without fear.

Want to go deeper? Read the full breakdown on leadership and forgiveness at waustingardner.com . And if you're looking for honest, grace-centered conversations on living and leading well, check out the Followed by Mercy podcast .

The Copycat King: Why Your Kids Are Watching Your Every Move

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 12:45:00 GMT

What the story of Jehoiachin reveals about the quiet power of a parent’s example and the legacy your daily choices are shaping in your children.

2 Kings 24:9 And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father had done.

Eighteen years old. Brand new king. And Jehoiachin's first executive decision? Copy-paste everything his dad did: right down to the evil parts.

This isn't just ancient history. This is your Tuesday morning, your dinner table, your Netflix choices, and the way you talk about people when you think nobody's listening. Because here's the uncomfortable truth: your kids aren't just hearing you: they're becoming you.

When God's Opinion Becomes the Only One That Matters

Notice the text doesn't say Jehoiachin did what was culturally acceptable or what his friends thought was cool. It says he "did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD ."

That phrase should stop us cold.

We live in a world where everyone gets to define their own truth, their own morality, their own version of "good enough." But Scripture isn't interested in our opinion polls. God has a standard, and it's not up for negotiation.

The real question isn't "What does my culture say?" or "What do I feel is right?" The question is: What does God see when He looks at my life?

That's the lens Jehoiachin should have used. That's the lens we desperately need to use as parents, as leaders, as people who are being watched every single day by little eyes and listening ears.

Your Kids Are Wired to Copy You, Literally

Here's something most parents don't know: your child's brain has a mirror neuron system, as scientists call it . These specialized brain cells light up both when your kid does something and when they watch you do it. It's like their brain is taking notes in real-time, building a database of "how to be human" based on your example.

And get this: these neurons are especially responsive to familiar people. Translation? Your child's brain is hardwired to copy you more than anyone else on the planet.

Researchers have discovered that children engage in something called "over-imitation." They don't just copy the necessary steps to achieve a goal: they copy everything, even the irrelevant actions. One developmental psychologist put it this way: "If a chimpanzee is shown an irrelevant action, they won't copy it: they'll skip right to the action that makes something happen."

But humans? We copy it all. Because imitation isn't just about learning skills. It's about connection, belonging, and becoming part of the tribe.

Your kids aren't just learning how to tie their shoes or cook dinner by watching you. They're learning how to respond to stress. How to talk about other people. How to prioritize their time. How to treat God and His Word.

They're learning "according to all that his father had done."

The Invisible Curriculum You're Teaching Right Now

Here's the sobering part: you're teaching every single day, whether you realize it or not.

When you skip church because you're tired, you're teaching.

When you gossip about the pastor or complain about church leadership at the dinner table, you're teaching.

When you read your Bible consistently, or when you don't, you're teaching.

When you pray with humility and dependence on God, you're teaching.

Your life is the most powerful curriculum your children will ever study.

I've walked through 50+ years of ministry, including 20 years as a missionary in Peru, and I can tell you this: the kids who grow up to serve God with joy and consistency almost always had parents who modeled it first. Not perfectly, but genuinely.

After surviving Stage 4 cancer and COVID, I've thought a lot about legacy. What am I leaving behind? What am I teaching by how I respond to suffering, by how I talk about God's faithfulness even in the darkest valleys?

If you want to dive deeper into how God's grace meets us in our failures and pain, I wrote about that journey here: The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are .

Because here's the thing: we can't teach grace if we're drowning in legalism ourselves. We can't inspire faithfulness if we're operating out of fear and performance rather than love.

The Question That Should Haunt Every Parent

Let me ask you straight: What are your children learning from you?

Will they love God because of what they see in your life? Or will they roll their eyes at "church stuff" because they watched you treat it like an obligation instead of a relationship?

Will they be faithful to gather with God's people because they saw you prioritize it? Or will they learn that church is optional, something you do when nothing better comes up?

Will they handle hardship with prayer and trust? Or will they panic, complain, and spiral into anxiety because that's what they watched you do?

The text says Jehoiachin did evil "according to all that his father had done." His father's kingdom ended in captivity. His father's choices had consequences that rippled into the next generation.

I would hate to think that my children and grandchildren would suffer because of what they learned from me.

That sentence should make every parent, every grandparent, every ministry leader pause and take inventory.

You're Not Alone in This

If you're reading this and feeling the weight of failure, let me tell you something: God's mercy is following you right now , ready to bring real grace and honest hope.

You don't have to be perfect. You never could be. But you do need to be genuine. You need to let your kids see you repent when you mess up. Let them see you turn to Scripture when you're confused. Let them hear you pray when you're desperate.

Let them watch you rest in God's grace instead of trying to earn it.

That's the gospel our kids desperately need to see modeled.

Research shows that adolescents who experience warmth and emotional connection with their parents are more likely to imitate them and less likely to reject their values. The quality of your relationship matters just as much as the content of your teaching.

Your kids aren't looking for perfect. They're looking for real.

For practical insights on building that kind of authentic ministry leadership: the kind that inspires others instead of crushing them, check out this article: The Secret to Lasting Impact: Why You Need a Ministry Mentor .

The Legacy Decision Starts Today

Here's your assignment: Look at every step you take today and ask, "Would I want my kids to copy this?"

The way you talk to your spouse. The way you spend money. The way you use your phone. The way you respond when someone wrongs you. The way you prioritize (or don't prioritize) prayer and Scripture.

Every move you make is writing the script your children will follow.

Dads and moms, let's decide right now to set a godly example. Not a perfect one: a grace-filled, authentic, God-honoring one.

Because, regardless of what we wish or hope, they will do according to what we do.

So let's make sure what we're doing is worth copying.

FAQ: Parenting with Purpose

Q: What if I've already messed up? Can I still turn things around for my kids?

Absolutely. God's grace is bigger than your past mistakes. Start today by modeling repentance, humility, and dependence on God. Your kids need to see you turn back to the Lord: that's one of the most powerful lessons you can teach. Remember: mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention.

Q: How do I teach my kids about God's standard without crushing them with legalism?

Lead with grace. Show them that God's standard matters because He loves us, not because He's keeping score to reject us. Model what it looks like to rest in His finished work while also pursuing obedience out of love. For more on this balance, check out my article on Grace vs. Moralism .

Q: What's the most important thing I can model for my kids spiritually?

Genuine dependence on God. Let them see you pray when you're scared. Let them hear you confess when you're wrong. Let them watch you turn to Scripture when you're confused. Loved people become loving people , and that starts with letting your kids see you being loved by God first.

W. Austin Gardner has served in ministry for over 50 years, including 20 years as a missionary in Peru. After surviving Stage 4 cancer and COVID, he's passionate about helping leaders and parents finish well. For more encouragement, subscribe to his Followed by Mercy newsletter or connect with him at Alignment Ministries .

The Architecture of Grace: Building a Marriage That Doesn't Burn Out

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 13:45:02 GMT

Why marriages collapse under performance and pressure and how resting in God’s grace creates a love that actually lasts.

Grace in marriage is often the missing ingredient in homes that feel more like a battlefield than a sanctuary. Many couples spend years trying to perform their way into God’s favor or their spouse’s affection. They treat their relationship like a spiritual treadmill, running faster and harder to reach a destination called "the perfect family," only to find themselves exhausted and resentful. However, the gospel of Jesus Christ offers a completely different blueprint. Instead of a structure built on the shifting sands of human effort, the architecture of grace rests on the finished work of Jesus.

When we talk about building a marriage that doesn't burn out, we have to start with identity. Most marital conflict stems from two people looking to each other for a sense of worth and security that only God can provide. If you expect your spouse to be your "all in all," you are setting them up for failure and yourself for deep disappointment. Conversely, when you realize that your satisfaction in Jesus is already complete, you stop making demands on your partner and start offering them the same unconditional love you have received.

The Foundation of Equal Worth

The very first brick in the architecture of grace is the reality of our creation. We often get bogged down in arguments about roles and authority before we ever acknowledge the shared dignity of our design. If we look back to the beginning, we see that the value of a man and a woman is not performance-based; it is inherent.

Genesis 1:27 “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.”

Austin Gardner has often shared that neither sex is better than the other. God had a magnificent plan when He made us as He did. Both men and women carry the image of the Creator, which means they possess equal value, worth, and dignity. Consequently, there is no room for pride or shame regarding our sex or our roles. When a husband views his wife through this lens, he doesn't see a subordinate; he sees a fellow image-bearer of the Almighty.

The Rest Found in Being Heirs Together

Many couples are burning out because they are fighting for power. They want to know "who is the boss" and who has the final say. Specifically, this focus on hierarchy usually points to a lack of security in Christ. If you know you are fully loved and accepted by the Father, you don't need to dominate another person to feel significant.

In the New Covenant, the relationship between a husband and wife is redefined. It is no longer about one person lording over the other. Instead, the Bible describes a beautiful partnership where both are "heirs together."

1 Peter 3:7 “Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.”

To be an "heir together" means that the grace of life is not divided up in percentages. You don't get 60%, and she gets 40%. You are both fully joint-heirs of everything God has provided through Jesus. When a husband understands this, he naturally begins to listen to his wife’s point of view. He values her gifts and abilities because he recognizes that the same Holy Spirit who empowers him is also at work in her. Grace in marriage removes the need for competition because you both belong to the same King.

Moving Beyond Performance-Based Love

Most of us were raised in a world of "if." If you do your chores, you get an allowance. If you get good grades, you get praise. Unfortunately, we bring this "if" mentality into our marriages. We offer love and kindness only when our spouse meets our expectations. This is the definition of performance-based living, and it is the fastest way to kill the joy in your home.

Unconditional love, however, says, "I love you because I am loved by God." It doesn't depend on the other person’s behavior. This is the radical message of grace that changes everything. Understanding your identity as a beloved child of God allows you to take The Big Leap of Faith and believe that God loves you exactly as you are. Once you accept that you aren't being graded by God, you can stop grading your spouse.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.” : Austin Gardner

When rest comes first, the pressure is off. You no longer have to be the perfect husband or the perfect wife to earn a "passing grade." You are already accepted in the Beloved. Therefore, your service to your spouse becomes a joyful overflow of God’s love rather than a heavy burden of duty.

The Elevation of the Wife

Historically, women have often been mistreated, marginalized, or thought of as less than men. However, this was never God's plan. In Christ, the woman is elevated to a position of high honor. The New Testament doesn't just give women a seat at the table; it makes them joint heirs of the grace of life.

The mistreatment of women is a result of the fall, but grace restores what sin broke. When a husband understands the architecture of grace, he seeks to honor his wife in public and in private. He protects her dignity and values her input. He recognizes that her role is not one of servitude to him, but of partnership with him. While women were never meant to hold headship or authority in the home, this functional role does not imply an inferior essence. In the Spirit, there is a oneness that transcends all divisions.

Galatians 3:28 “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”

Sacrificial Love vs. Dictatorial Headship

Some men use the concept of "headship" as a license to be abusive or dictatorial. This behavior is completely foreign to God’s plan and reveals a deep misunderstanding of Christ’s character. A husband is called to lead, but his leadership is defined by the cross, not by a scepter.

Ephesians 5:25 “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;”

Jesus didn't lead the church by barking orders or demanding his rights. He led by laying down His life. For a husband, grace in marriage looks like washing feet. It looks like putting his wife’s needs above his own. It looks like loving her as his own body. When a man loves his wife this way, he isn't losing himself; he is fulfilling his highest calling.

Ephesians 5:28 “So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.”

An abusive or controlling spirit in the home is a sign of a man who is not resting in the mercy of God. He is trying to control his environment because he is afraid. But perfect love casts out fear. When a man is secure in God's grace, he doesn't need to control his wife; he only needs to love her.

Finding Satisfaction in Jesus

The ultimate secret to a marriage that doesn't burn out is finding your satisfaction in Jesus. If you go to your spouse to drink, you will eventually find the well is dry. Humans are not designed to be the source of life for one another. We are meant to be channels, not reservoirs.

When you spend time in the presence of God, what Austin Gardner often calls the "Secret of Exodus 25:22," you are filled with a satisfaction that the world cannot give. You discover that God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency as a spouse. He simply loves you.

As you rest in that love, you find the strength to raise children not for personal pleasure or as a status symbol, but as a way to honor God. You stop viewing your family as a hindrance to your money or your things. Instead, you see them as a gift from a Father who gives liberally. Your marriage becomes a living demonstration of the gospel: a place where two people, fully aware of their flaws, rest in the unconditional love of a God who has already finished the work.

FAQ: Understanding Grace in Marriage

How can I stop the cycle of performance-based love in my home?

The change begins when you stop looking at your spouse’s behavior and start looking at your identity in Christ. When you realize that you are already fully loved by God without any effort on your part, you can afford to be generous with grace toward your spouse.

Does equal worth mean there are no different roles in marriage?

Not at all. Equality of worth and dignity does not mean an identity of roles. Just as the Father and Son are equal in essence but have different roles in redemption, a husband and wife are equal image-bearers with different functional callings in the home.

What should I do if I feel burned out trying to please my spouse?

Take a step back and find your satisfaction in Jesus first. Burnout usually happens when we try to give what we haven't received. Go to the Father, be reminded of His unconditional mercy, and let His love be the fuel for your relationship.

#Grace #Marriage # AustinGardner #UnconditionalLove #FaithBasedDevelopment

The Approval Trap: Why God’s ‘Yes’ is Better Than Everyone Else’s ‘Maybe’

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:45:00 GMT

Breaking free from people-pleasing and discovering the freedom that comes from living secure in God’s approval.

Have you ever walked away from a conversation, replaying every single word you said, wondering if you sounded foolish? Most of us have felt that cold prickle of anxiety when we suspect someone might be unhappy with us. We live in a world that runs on "likes," "shares," and the constant dopamine hit of external validation. However, this modern struggle has a much older name in the Bible: the fear of man.

Approval addiction is a heavy chain to drag through life. It makes you a slave to the shifting moods of people who are just as flawed and fickle as you are. In my fifty years of ministry, I have seen how the need for human applause can paralyze a leader and steal a believer's joy. Consequently, we must look to the Word of God to find a firmer foundation. When we anchor our identity in the finished work of Jesus, the opinions of others begin to lose their terrifying power.

One specific verse acts as a sledgehammer against the prison of people-pleasing. It reminds us that our worth is not a democracy. Your value is not determined by a majority vote of your peers, your family, or your social media followers. It is determined by the One who created you and gave His life to redeem you.

The Hebrew Weight of Psalm 118:6

To truly break free from approval addiction, we need to understand the Psalmist's logic. He wasn’t just whistling in the dark or trying to hype himself up with positive thinking. He was making a calculated statement based on the character of God.

Psalm 118:6 “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do to me?”

Specifically, the Hebrew structure of this verse provides a stunning contrast. The phrase "YHWH li" literally means "The LORD is for me" or "on my side." On the other side of the equation, the Psalmist uses the word adam for man. This word refers to a human being in all their frailty and dust-born limitation. Therefore, the verse sets up a comparison between the Eternal Creator and a handful of dust.

If the Lord of the universe is "for" you, the power of a human being to define you or destroy you evaporates. Many people live as if God were a distant observer, while their boss, spouse, or critics hold ultimate authority. Meanwhile, the Bible teaches that God’s position toward you is the only one that truly carries weight. When you realize that the King of Kings has already said "Yes" to you in Christ, the "Maybe" of everyone else becomes insignificant.

Understanding the Snare of the Fear of Man

The Bible doesn't mince words when it comes to the danger of seeking human approval over God's truth. In the book of Proverbs, we are warned that this mindset is actually a trap. Specifically, it limits our ability to follow the Holy Spirit because we are too busy checking the wind of public opinion.

Proverbs 29:25 “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.”

Approval addiction is a modern term for this ancient snare. It manifests in our lives when we feel crushed by a single negative comment or when we avoid saying what is right to keep the peace. For example, have you ever felt the need to shape your identity around what you think others want to see? This is what I call "Image Management." It is an exhausting performance that never actually results in true rest.

Austin Gardner has spent decades teaching that satisfaction in Jesus is the only thing that can truly fill the vacuum in our hearts. When we try to fill that hole with people's approval, we are trying to drink from a broken cistern. People can reject you, misunderstand you, or even gossip about you. However, they cannot touch your standing before God. They cannot cancel the grace that has been poured out over your life.

The Distinction Between Image and Integrity

Now, some might ask, "But doesn't the Bible say we should have a good reputation?" You are connecting two verses that seem to pull in opposite directions. On one hand, we are told not to fear man. On the other hand, we are told to value our name.

Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.”

At first glance, this might look like a contradiction. Should we care what people think or not? The tension disappears when we look at the biblical meaning of a "good name." In Hebrew, your "name" refers to your character and integrity, not your popularity. Choosing a good name means choosing to live righteously even when nobody is looking.

Approval addiction focuses on image, while Proverbs 22:1 focuses on integrity. Image management is about making sure people think you are good. Integrity is about actually being faithful to God.

Consequently, you can have a "good name" before God while being hated by the world. In fact, if you live for God’s approval, you should expect some level of rejection.

Jesus: The Perfect Example of Perfect Integrity

If anyone ever had a "good name," it was Jesus Christ. He lived with perfect integrity and absolute obedience to the Father. Yet, if you look at His "approval rating" during His earthly ministry, it was often in the basement. The religious leaders called Him a blasphemer and a friend of sinners. The crowds that cheered Him on Sunday were the same ones shouting for His execution by Friday.

Jesus didn't let the opinions of men move Him an inch. Why? Because His identity was anchored in the Father's love. He lived out Psalm 118:6 every single day. He knew that what man could do to Him, even the worst they could do, was nothing compared to the glory of fulfilling His mission.

In my own journey, especially while navigating the search for peace when you are falsely accused , I have had to lean heavily on this truth. When the world tries to stain your name, you must remember that your real name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Your identity is hidden with Christ in God. If you are resting in that, you can survive the storms of human criticism.

Practical Application: How to Apply This Today

Breaking the habit of people-pleasing requires a deliberate shift in your thinking. It isn't a one-time decision but a daily practice of returning to the grace of God. Here are a few concrete ways to apply Psalm 118:6 to your life right now:

Replace the Question: Instead of asking, "What will they think of me?" start asking, "What does God think of this?" When your primary audience is an Audience of One, life becomes much simpler.
Expect Rejection: Jesus warned us in Luke 6:26 , "Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you!" If everyone likes you, you are probably compromising something. Realize that disapproval is often a sign that you are standing for something that matters.
Audit Your Motives: Are you doing that act of service to be seen, or because you love Jesus? Grace-based living means our "good works" flow from the fact that we are already loved, not from trying to earn a gold star from the people around us.
Practice Silence: Sometimes the best way to kill approval addiction is to let a misunderstanding go without trying to "fix" your image. Trust God to be your defender.

As I often say in our work with Alignment Ministries , leadership isn't about being liked; it's about being faithful. Faith-based development starts with a heart that is settled in the love of God. When you are no longer hunting for validation, you are finally free to actually love people.

Resting in the Finished Work

We must remember that our pursuit of a "good name" is not a means of earning God's favor. In the New Covenant, we live from a place of total acceptance. As the quote goes: “Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.” You don't need to perform for the Father because Jesus has already performed perfectly on your behalf.

God's mercy is not trailing behind you with a list of conditions. It is running toward you with the intention of giving you rest. When you wake up tomorrow morning, remind yourself: "The Lord is on my side. I will not fear." Whether you face a difficult meeting, a critical family member, or a social media firestorm, remember that your worth is settled.

The approval trap is a lonely place, but the exit is clearly marked. It leads straight to the cross where the only opinion that matters was settled forever. God said "Yes" to you through the blood of His Son. And if He is for you, who can truly be against you?

FAQ: Navigating Approval and Integrity

How do I know if I have approval addiction or if I just care about being a good person?

The difference lies in your reaction to criticism. If a correction makes you want to improve your character, that is healthy integrity. If a correction makes you feel like your world is ending or makes you want to manipulate others' opinions, that is likely approval addiction. One focuses on your growth before God, while the other focuses on your image before people.

Does Psalm 118:6 mean I should ignore all advice or feedback from others?

Not at all. The Bible tells us that in the multitude of counselors there is safety. However, feedback should be used as data for growth, not as an authority over your identity. You can listen to others' opinions without letting those opinions define who you are or whether or not you are loved by God.

Can I really have a "good name" if people are saying bad things about me?

Absolutely. Jesus had the most honorable "name" in history, yet He was slandered and labeled a criminal. Your "good name" in Proverbs 22:1 refers to your actual character and your standing before God. Men may try to drag your name through the mud, but God is the one who keeps the records that matter.

#AustinGardner #Grace #Mercy #FaithBasedDevelopment #SatisfactionInJesus

The Identity Trap: Why Leaders Hoard Authority (And How to Stop)

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 13:45:05 GMT

How insecurity disguised as responsibility keeps leaders from releasing authority and multiplying others.

Moses was exhausted.

From morning until evening, he sat judging disputes. People waited in line all day. By nightfall, everyone was frustrated, including Moses.

I’m Austin Gardner, and I’ve come to see this moment between Moses and Jethro as more than a leadership lesson: it’s a heart-level warning for every leader who feels like they have to be the center.

His father-in-law, Jethro, watched this and said something we often miss: "The thing that thou doest is not good."

Not inefficient. Not suboptimal. Not good.

Most leadership training treats Exodus 18 like a time-management seminar. Delegate to prevent burnout. Create systems. Build organizational charts.

But that misses the deeper issue.

The problem wasn't Moses' schedule. It was Moses' identity.

The Messianic Syndrome

Here's the question Jethro's advice exposes: Why couldn't Moses see this himself?

He was a brilliant leader. He'd confronted Pharaoh, led millions through the Red Sea, and received the Law on Sinai. Yet he couldn't recognize he was drowning in daily disputes.

Because somewhere along the way, Moses had become the indispensable one .

Everyone came to him. Only him. And if we're honest, there was probably something intoxicating about that. He was the mediator. The man with answers. The singular voice of God to the people.

This is what I call the Messianic Syndrome: when leaders start believing they must be the sole mediator between God and His people.

It's subtle. It doesn't feel like pride. It feels like responsibility .

But here's what it really is: insecurity dressed up as devotion .

When your identity is wrapped up in being needed, you can't release authority without feeling like you're losing yourself.

What Jethro Saw

Jethro wasn't just concerned about Moses burning out. He saw something that threatened the entire covenant community.

Exodus 18:18 "Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone."

Notice: it wasn't just Moses who would wear away. The people would too.

When leadership bottlenecks around one person:

People wait
Justice slows
Dependency grows
Community fractures

Centralized control doesn't just exhaust the leader. It suffocates the body .

God never designed His people to funnel everything through one person. That's not covenant life. That's not Kingdom.

The Security to Listen

Here's what I love about this story: Moses listened .

He didn't defend himself. He didn't say, "You don't understand the burden I carry." He didn't dismiss Jethro because he was an outsider (a Midianite priest, no less).

He listened. And he acted.

That takes security.

Insecure leaders can't receive counsel. They hear critique as a threat. They interpret a suggestion as a challenge.

But Moses wasn't threatened by wise input. Why?

Because his identity wasn't performance-based. He knew who he was before God, even when he was doing leadership wrong.

This is the difference between leading from sonship and leading from performance .

Performance-based leaders hoard authority because releasing it feels like losing value.

Sonship-secure leaders share authority because their worth isn't tied to being indispensable.

The Father's Design

God's design has always been shared life , not centralized control.

Look at the pattern:

In Genesis 2, God said, "It is not good that the man should be alone."
In Exodus 18, Jethro said, "The thing that thou doest is not good."

Both statements challenge isolation .

Leadership isolation violates God's design. He doesn't create lone rangers. He creates families. Bodies. Communities where responsibility is shared.

Later, in Numbers 11, God placed His Spirit on seventy elders. He didn't dilute Moses' authority: He multiplied capacity.

That's what healthy delegation does. It doesn't diminish leadership. It distributes it.

And here's the key: God was secure enough in His own authority to share His Spirit. He didn't hoard. He poured out.

When we understand we're sons and daughters: loved, secure, held: we stop needing to be the center. We no longer need to prove our worth through indispensability.

We can release authority without losing identity.

Delegation vs. Discipleship

Now, some leaders hear "delegate" and immediately create bureaucracy. They hand off tasks but withhold relationship.

That's not what Exodus 18 teaches.

Jethro told Moses to choose men who were:

Able
God-fearing
Truthful
Haters of unjust gain

Character before capacity. Relationship before role.

Healthy leadership doesn't just distribute tasks: it multiplies people.

Jesus didn't just delegate. He discipled. He shared life with the Twelve, then sent them out with authority.

Delegation without discipleship becomes bureaucracy.

Discipleship without delegation becomes dependency.

We need both.

And both flow from the same source: security in the Father's love .

When you know you're loved apart from performance, you don't need to control outcomes. You can invest in people. You can trust the process. You can release authority and watch others flourish.

The Test of Your Identity

Here's how you know if you're in the identity trap:

You can't celebrate when someone else succeeds in "your" area.

If another leader rises and you feel threatened: that's the trap.

If someone handles a situation without you and you feel sidelined: that's the trap.

If you secretly enjoy being the only one who "really understands" the vision, that's the trap.

Moses could have responded to Jethro with defensiveness. Instead, he celebrated the wisdom and immediately implemented it.

That's a leader secure in sonship.

The Apostle Paul captured this in Philippians 2. He told the church to have the same mind as Christ, who "made himself of no reputation." Jesus didn't cling to position. He poured Himself out.

And from that emptying came the greatest multiplication in history.

How to Stop Hoarding

If you recognize the Messianic Syndrome in yourself, here's where to start:

1. Acknowledge the identity issue.

Burnout isn't just about time management. It's often about identity. Ask yourself: What am I getting from being indispensable?

2. Root your identity in sonship, not role.

Your worth comes from being loved by the Father, not from being needed by people. Read Galatians 4. You're a son. An heir. That can't be taken from you.

3. Choose character-based people.

Jethro didn't say, "Find the most talented." He said, "Find the most godly." Multiply through people you can trust: not just people you can use.

4. Start small.

Moses didn't delegate everything overnight. He kept the hard cases. Start by releasing one responsibility. Watch what God does.

5. Celebrate others' success.

Make it a spiritual discipline to publicly honor those you've empowered. Kill the competitive spirit with gratitude.

When we stop performing for God and start resting in His love, everything changes. We lead from fullness, not fear. We multiply instead of controlling. We build families, not empires.

And like Moses, we discover that shared authority doesn't weaken the mission: it strengthens it.

FAQ

Why do Christian leaders struggle with delegation?

Often it's not about time: it's about identity. When our sense of worth is tied to being needed or indispensable, releasing authority feels like losing ourselves. Security in God's love frees us to share responsibility without fear.

How is delegation different from discipleship?

Delegation distributes tasks; discipleship multiplies people. Healthy leadership does both: sharing responsibility while investing relationally in character formation. Delegation without relationship becomes bureaucracy. Discipleship without empowerment creates dependency.

What does it mean to lead from sonship?

Leading from sonship means your identity is rooted in being loved by the Father, not in your role or performance. It allows you to receive counsel, celebrate others, and release authority without feeling threatened, because your worth isn't tied to being the center.

If this resonates, I'd love to walk with you through these leadership shifts. Check out Alignment Ministries for pastoral coaching and mentoring, or explore more on my main site . And if you want to dive deeper into resting in the Father's love, start with The Big Leap of Faith .

Delegation vs. Discipleship: Are You Building a Business or a Body?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:45:06 GMT

Why multiplying leaders requires more than assigning tasks—it requires sharing your life.

I want to offer a simple perspective on Moses and Jethro that has shaped my own thinking about leadership: Here's the uncomfortable question every leader needs to ask—are you building something efficient or something alive?

Because there's a difference. A big one.

You can run a tight ship and still miss the point. You can delegate tasks like a pro and never actually multiply your life. You can organize people into neat little boxes on an org chart and completely bypass the heart of what God calls us to do.

Delegation asks, "What can you do?"

Discipleship asks, "Who are you becoming?"

One is transactional. The other is transformational. And if we're honest, most of us default to delegation because it's faster, cleaner, and requires less of us.

But God didn't build a business. He built a body.

When Moses Hit the Wall

Let's start in the Book of Exodus 18. Moses is drowning. He's sitting from morning till evening, judging disputes, answering questions, and solving problems. The people are lined up waiting. Moses is exhausted. And his father-in-law, Jethro, shows up and says something nobody wants to hear:

Exodus 18:17-18 "What you are doing is not good. You and the people with you will certainly wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you. You are not able to do it alone."

Ouch.

Jethro wasn't criticizing Moses' heart. He was exposing a broken system. Moses had become the bottleneck. Everything funneled through one man. And while Moses may have felt indispensable, he was actually creating dependency.

So Jethro gives him a plan: Find capable, God-fearing, truthful men. Distribute responsibility. Let them handle the small stuff. Bring only the hard cases to you.

Moses listens. He delegates. The burden is shared. The people are better served.

Problem solved, right?

Not quite.

What Delegation Gives You (And What It Doesn't)

Delegation is powerful. It prevents burnout. It spreads the load. It creates capacity. It's how organizations scale.

But here's what delegation doesn't do: It doesn't transform people.

Delegation says, "I trust you with this task." That's good. But it stops there. It's transactional. You hand off responsibility, people execute, and the cycle repeats. The system runs smoother, but the people don't necessarily grow deeper.

In a business, that's fine. Businesses need tasks completed. Profits need to be made. Efficiency matters.

But the church isn't a business. It's a body. And bodies don't just need tasks completed. They need life multiplied.

That's where discipleship comes in.

Discipleship: The Long, Slow Miracle

Jesus didn't delegate the Great Commission. He discipled people into it.

Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."

Notice the focus: Make disciples. Not "complete tasks." Not "fill positions." Not even "grow the organization."

Make disciples.

Discipleship is relational. It's messy. It's slow. It involves explaining, modeling, watching, correcting,

encouraging, and releasing. It's not a one-time conversation. It's a long walk together.

Discipleship asks, "Who are you becoming?"

It's about formation, not just function. It's about character, not just competence. It's about ownership, not just obedience.

And here's the beautiful tension: Healthy discipleship naturally produces delegation. When you invest in people, when you share your life, your wisdom, your faith, they don't just learn to do what you do. They learn to be who they are. And eventually, they take responsibility. They own it. They multiply it.

Delegation without discipleship creates followers.

Discipleship creates leaders.

Paul's Blueprint for Multiplication

Paul understood this. He wrote to Timothy:

2 Timothy 2:2 "The things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also."

That's four generations in one sentence:

Paul → Timothy → faithful men → others.

Paul wasn't just handing Timothy a task. He was entrusting him with a message, a life, a mission. And Timothy was expected to do the same, not by delegating duties, but by discipling people.

This is how the Kingdom multiplies. Not through efficient systems. Through invested lives.

The Deeper Truth: God Shares Life, Not Just Labor

Here's what many leaders miss: The issue in Exodus 18 wasn't just Moses' exhaustion. It was isolation.

God never designed leadership to be carried by one person. From the beginning, He's been inviting people to participate together.

Later, in Numbers 11, God takes some of the Spirit that was on Moses and puts it on 70 elders. Leadership becomes distributed. Authority becomes shared.

This isn't about losing control. It's about reflecting God's nature.

God doesn't hoard His Spirit. He shares it. He empowers. He releases. He multiplies.

The Kingdom doesn't operate through hierarchy. It operates through relationships.

If your leadership model requires you to be the center of everything, you're building it wrong. You're creating dependency, not maturity. You're building a business, not a body.

Where We Go Wrong

Most church leadership defaults to delegation because it feels spiritual. We call it "equipping the saints." We create programs, assign roles, and fill slots.

But ask yourself: Are you just plugging people into positions, or are you actually investing in their formation?

Are you sharing tasks, or are you sharing life?

Delegation creates volunteers. Discipleship creates owners.

Delegation says, "Here's what I need you to do."

Discipleship says, "Here's who I believe you can become."

One maintains the system. The other multiplies the mission.

If you want to see a lasting impact in ministry, you can't just delegate responsibility. You have to disciple people into ownership. You have to walk with them, invest in them, trust them, release them, even when they do things differently than you would.

That's uncomfortable. It's slower. It requires vulnerability. But it's how Jesus did it. And it's how the early church exploded across the known world.

What This Means for You

If you're leading anything, a ministry, a team, a small group, ask yourself:

Am I building something efficient, or something alive?

Am I creating followers, or multiplying leaders?

Am I delegating tasks, or discipling people?

Start small. Pick one or two people. Invest in them. Share your life. Model what it looks like to walk with Jesus. Let them watch you struggle, pray, lead, fail, and recover. Give them responsibility and let them own it. Then release them to do the same with others.

That's how movements happen. Not through perfect systems. Through multiplied lives.

You're not building a business. You're building a body. And bodies grow through relationship, not efficiency.

For more on what it means to lead with grace and intentionality, check out The Secret to Lasting Impact: Why You Need a Ministry Mentor and discover how treating church like family transforms everything.

FAQ

What's the difference between delegation and discipleship in ministry?

Delegation focuses on completing tasks efficiently, it asks "what can you do?" Discipleship focuses on forming people; it asks, "Who are you becoming?" Delegation is transactional; discipleship is transformational. Both are necessary, but discipleship should drive delegation, not the other way around.

How do I know if I'm just delegating instead of discipling?

If people depend on you for direction, you're delegating. If people are growing in ownership and multiplying themselves in others, you're discipling. Ask yourself: Are people learning to do tasks, or are they becoming leaders who can invest in others?

Can you delegate without discipling?

Yes, but you'll create a leader-dependent culture. People will complete assignments but won't take ownership. Healthy discipleship naturally leads to delegation because people who are formed well take responsibility and multiply the mission without needing constant oversight.

Austin Gardner: The Beauty of Covenant Rest

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 13:45:04 GMT

Finding Lasting Strength in the Father’s Unconditional Love

Many people in ministry today are exhausted because they are trying to sustain a relationship with God that feels like a heavy contract. They believe that if they perform well, God will be pleased, but if they fail, His countenance will change. However, when we look at the life of Jesus, we see a completely different picture of the Father. We see a God who is not looking for employees to manage, but for sons and daughters to love.

For over 50 years, I have walked the path of ministry leadership. I have planted churches in the Andes mountains of Peru and mentored young men heading into the harvest field. Throughout those decades, including seasons of Stage 4 cancer and a battle with COVID on a ventilator, I have learned one vital truth: ministry must flow from rest. If your service is not an overflow of your satisfaction in Jesus, it will eventually become a burden you were never meant to carry.

Seeing the Father through the Son

If you want to know what God is like, you simply have to look at Jesus. There is no "angry Father" hiding behind a "kind Jesus." They are one in heart and one in purpose. Jesus came to reveal that God is love and that God is good. Consequently, everything we do in ministry must start with this revelation.

Hebrews 1:3 “Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;”

Because Jesus is the express image of the Father, we can trust that God’s heart toward us is exactly what we see in the Gospels. We see Him welcoming the broken, healing the hurting, and offering rest to the weary. Therefore, we don't have to wonder if God is for us. He proved He was for us when He sent His Son. When we understand this, our identity is no longer tied to our performance in the pulpit or the mission field. Instead, our identity is anchored in being the Father's beloved.

Ministry Leadership from a Place of Satisfaction

In the world of ministry leadership, there is constant pressure to produce results. People often feel that their worth is tied to the size of their church or the number of souls they reach. However, true satisfaction in Jesus is not found in what we do for Him, but in what He has already done for us.

When I speak to young leaders through Alignment Ministries, I always emphasize that you cannot give what you do not have. If you are not resting in the finished work of Christ, you will lead people into a life of striving. But if you are satisfied in His love, your leadership will naturally invite others into that same rest.

We must move away from the idea that we are building something for God. Instead, we are participating in what God is already doing. This shift in perspective removes the crushing weight of "success" and replaces it with the joy of fellowship. You are not behind, and you are not being graded. You are simply being invited to walk with the Father.

The Difference Between a Contract and a Covenant

Religious performance is based on a contract. In a contract, if you do your part, the other party does theirs. If you fail, the deal is off. But the New Covenant is not a contract; it is a promise kept by God Himself. This covenant is built on the blood of Jesus, which never loses its power.

Hebrews 8:12 “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.”

What does this reveal about the goodness of God? It shows that He has removed every obstacle between Him and us. He is not keeping a ledger of your mistakes. Instead, He is inviting you into a "covenant rest" where you can be honest about your weaknesses because His grace is sufficient.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.”

This is a core truth of the gospel. We often think we need to get our lives in order before we can truly experience God’s peace. But the truth is that the peace of God is what gives us the power to live a transformed life. Obedience is not the root of our relationship; it is the fruit of it.

Moving from Striving to Sonship

For many years, I thought I had to work harder to prove my love for God. I was a missionary who loved God but was deeply afraid of failing Him. I eventually realized that this fear was actually a form of pride. It was the belief that my efforts could somehow add to what Christ finished on the cross.

When we move from striving to sonship, everything changes. We no longer serve out of fear of rejection, but out of the security of acceptance. This is the message we want to share at Alignment Ministries . We want to help leaders align their hearts with the Father’s heart so they can lead with longevity and joy.

If you find yourself tired today, it might be because you’ve been trying to live in Saul's armor. You’ve been trying to meet everyone else’s expectations instead of simply resting in who God says you are. You can take that armor off. You are a child of God, and He is well-pleased with you because you are in Christ.

Mentoring the Next Generation in Grace

Mentoring is one of the greatest joys of my life. I love sitting down with young men and women and helping them see that God is much better than they ever imagined. In my 50+ years of ministry, I have seen many people flame out because they were fueled by fear. But those who stay the course are the ones who have discovered the beauty of covenant rest.

We must teach the next generation that holiness flows from relationship, not from rules. When a person catches a glimpse of God's goodness, they won't want to live in sin. They will be so satisfied in Jesus that the world loses its luster. This is why our primary goal in mentoring must be to reveal the Father.

If you are struggling to believe that God loves you exactly as you are, I encourage you to read The Big Leap of Faith . It is the foundation for everything we talk about here at waustingardner.com .

A Life Settled in Love

The Christian life was never meant to be powered by pressure. It was meant to be lived from being loved first. Whether I am teaching on leadership or sharing the story of how God brought me through cancer, the message is the same: God is good, and you can trust Him.

As you go about your day, remember that you are not walking alone. The same Mercy that has followed me for over half a century is following you right now. It isn't trailing behind you with a list of conditions; it is running toward you with the intention of bringing you home to the Father’s heart.

You can rest. You can breathe. You can know that Christ is enough for whatever you are facing today. The work is finished, the covenant is secure, and you are deeply, unconditionally loved.

FAQ: Understanding Covenant Rest

What is "Covenant Rest" in ministry?

Covenant rest is the spiritual state of leading and serving from the security of God's finished work rather than striving to earn His favor. It means your identity as a child of God is settled, allowing your ministry to flow from a place of peace and satisfaction in Jesus.

How can a leader avoid burnout using these principles?

Burnout often happens when we try to sustain ministry through our own self-effort and religious performance. By shifting focus from "doing for God" to "living from God's love," a leader can find a sustainable rhythm that relies on the Holy Spirit's power rather than personal stamina.

Does resting mean we stop being active in ministry?

Not at all. Rest is an internal posture, not an external lack of activity. When we rest in the New Covenant, our work becomes more effective because it is fueled by love and grace rather than fear and pressure.

About the Author: Austin Gardner has spent over 50 years in ministry as a missionary, pastor, and mentor. He served as a missionary in the mountains of Peru for 20 years and is a survivor of Stage 4 cancer and COVID-19. Today, he focuses on faith-based development and mentoring leaders through Alignment Ministries, helping them find satisfaction in the finished work of Christ.

#AustinGardner #Mentoring #MinistryLeadership #Grace #FollowedByMercy

Austin Gardner: Standing Against the Current

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:45:00 GMT

Standing Firm in a Loud World by Resting in the Father’s Unconditional Love

Do you ever feel like you are swimming upstream in a river that is moving way too fast? I certainly do. Every scroll and every headline seems to announce one more way you’re supposed to define yourself, prove yourself, and pick a side so you can belong.

However, “standing against the current” is not first about behavior. It’s about identity . It’s about living from the quiet strength of being loved.

For years, I thought “standing” meant moral toughness. Hold the line. Speak louder. Try harder. That sounds brave, but underneath it often hides performance thinking: If I do enough, I’ll be safe. If I get it right, I’ll be accepted.

The New Covenant begins somewhere else. It begins with Jesus’ finished work and the Father’s unconditional embrace. Therefore, we don’t stand to earn love. We stand because we are already loved.

Here’s the shift that changed everything for me: identity before behavior. When you know you are already held, you stop grasping for the world’s approval. You can breathe. You can listen. You can speak with Grace and Mercy instead of fear.

After 50+ years in ministry, I’ve learned this: you don’t have to go along to get along, because you don’t need the culture to tell you who you are. In fact, some of the greatest blessings I have experienced, in the Andean mountains of Arequipa, Peru, and right here at home, came when I stopped staring at the river and started resting in the One who carried me out of it.

Today, I want to talk to you about Jehoshaphat. He lived in a loud moment, too. Still, he didn’t build his life on noise. He returned to the God of covenant and goodness.

The Choice of a King

When we look at Jehoshaphat in the Old Testament, we see a man surrounded by a culture that had wandered far from God. The people around him chased “Baalim”: the popular, flashy idols of the day. Blending in would have been easy. However, Jehoshaphat chose something deeper than popularity. He returned to the God of covenant and goodness.

II Chronicles 17:3-4 “And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and sought not unto Baalim; But sought to the LORD God of his father, and walked in his commandments, and not after the doings of Israel.”

A lot of us read that and hear, “If I do it right, God will be with me.” I used to read it that way, too. Yet the “first ways” weren’t a moral ladder to climb. They were a relational return. Jehoshaphat sought “the LORD God of his father.” That tells me he didn’t chase an idea. He sought a Person.

So yes, Jehoshaphat didn’t chase the trend. He didn’t govern from fear. Still, the anchor wasn’t a moral performance. The anchor was trust in the covenant God who is good. Therefore, obedience didn’t become a means of securing God’s presence. It became the fruit of being near Him.

That’s the heart of Alignment Ministries, too. We don’t coach leaders into pressure. We walk with you into sonship: living from Grace, receiving Mercy, and letting faith-based development flow from relationship, not striving.

Resting in Jesus Over Political Noise

In our modern world, we face the same pressure Jehoshaphat did. Everything feels urgent. Everyone feels sure. Meanwhile, the world frantically tries to save itself through performance and politics. If you pick the “right” tribe, use the “right” words, and post the “right” opinions, maybe you’ll be safe. Maybe you’ll be accepted.

That’s exhausting. More importantly, it’s a false burden. Jesus already carried what we keep trying to carry.

So we don’t stand because we’re trying to win the culture war. We stand because we are already satisfied in Jesus . We’re not hunting for an identity marker. We’ve been given a name. Therefore, our peace doesn’t rise and fall with the news cycle.

During my 20 years as a missionary in the Andes of Peru, I watched this pressure take a different form among believers. It wasn’t social media, but the pull sounded familiar: “Tell people what they want to hear, and you’ll grow faster.” In those early days of ministry development, we had to decide: would we build on applause or on what God has said? By Grace, we chose the latter. It was slower at times. However, it was steady.

That’s why faith-based development matters. When Austin Gardner talks about Grace , Mercy , and faith-based development , I’m not talking about a softer faith. I’m talking about a safer foundation: you build from the Father’s love, not from fear of losing it.

Here’s one of the most freeing truths I’ve learned:

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.”

If performance thinking whispers, “Hurry up and prove it,” Mercy answers with a better word:

“God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency.”

When you know the Father as Father, you stop scrambling. Therefore, you can stand with a calm heart, even in a loud age.

Standing From Identity, Not Anxiety

So what does “standing against the current” look like today? It doesn’t start with a list of cultural “stands.” It starts with a settled heart.

When you rest in the finished work of Jesus, you can stand without needing the world’s approval. You can speak with courage and listen with compassion. In other words, you don’t stand to prove you’re righteous. You stand because you already belong to the Father, and you don’t need the river to name you.

That changes how we talk about hard issues, too. We don’t frame them as political trophies. Instead, we frame them through God’s original design of love and the beauty of His covenant.

1. Life: Loved on Purpose

Life isn’t an accident, and it isn’t disposable. From the beginning, God’s heart has been to give, protect, and bless. Therefore, we honor the unborn not as a slogan, but as a reflection of the Father’s love for the smallest and most hidden.

2. Gender: Received, Not Achieved

Our culture tells people, “Go create yourself.” Jesus says, “Come receive life.” The confusion is real, and the pain is real. Still, God’s design is not a cage. It is a gift. So we speak with mercy and clarity, believing identity is received in relationship with the Creator, not achieved through endless reinvention.

3. Marriage: Covenant Beauty

Marriage is more than a contract or a trend. It is covenant language. It tells the truth that love can be faithful, steady, and safe. I’ve seen the beauty of a restored marriage in my own life and in the lives of those I mentor. Consequently, when we honor marriage, we aren’t trying to control anyone. We’re protecting something beautiful that blesses the next generation.

From Performance to Grace (My Pivot Point)

I want to be very honest with you. For a long time, I thought standing against the current was about my own strength. I assumed I had to work harder, talk tougher, and carry myself like I never struggled. That’s performance thinking. It looks “strong,” but it’s heavy.

Then I walked through valleys I didn’t choose.

Stage 4 cancer changed my perspective. Later, COVID put me on a ventilator, and I faced days when my body wouldn’t cooperate, and my future didn’t feel guaranteed. In those moments, I couldn’t perform. I couldn’t prove anything. I could only be held.

That’s where Grace got personal for me. God didn’t show up as a disappointed supervisor. He showed up as Father. He stayed good. He stayed close.

I realized something I’ll never forget: I don’t stand because I am strong; I stand because I am loved. The finished work of Jesus didn’t just forgive me. It gave me a place to rest. It brought me into the Father’s unconditional embrace.

Here’s the confession I wish I had made sooner:

“I didn’t become legalistic because I hated grace. I became legalistic because I loved God and was afraid of losing Him.”

My journey from performance to Grace changed everything. I stopped trying to impress a judge and started trusting a Father. Therefore, I found my satisfaction in Jesus alone. When you are truly satisfied in Him, the world loses its leverage. You don’t need the culture to tell you that you’re okay, because God has already called you His.

As I often say:

“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

Calm in a Loud World

When you decide to live by covenant instead of crowd approval, some people will misunderstand you. They may label you. They may push you into a political box. That is okay. Your life doesn’t have to be explained by the latest headline.

Standing against the current doesn’t mean you become angry or sharp. On the contrary, it means you live so anchored in God’s Mercy that you can stay steady while others panic. You aren’t trying to “win.” You’re trying to love well while telling the truth.

Here’s another sticky line I come back to often:

“Loved people become loving people.”

If you feel exhausted from trying to keep up, you can stop. Take a breath. Come back to Jesus. The Father’s unconditional embrace is not a reward for the strong. It is home for the weary.

Also, please don’t miss this: The Big Leap of Faith isn’t about doing more. It’s about believing that God loves you exactly as you are. From that place of security, you can stand against any current without losing your joy.

If you want ongoing leadership encouragement and faith-based development resources, I invite you to visit Alignment Ministries here: https://alignmentministries.com and the “From Austin’s Pen” archive here: https://www.alignmentministries.com/from-austins-pen. For my main blog hub and additional Grace-and-Mercy teaching, you can also browse https://waustingardner.com/blog/.

If you share with Spanish-speaking friends or family, point them to https://guillermoagardner.substack.com/ (and remind them my main home base is always https://waustingardner.com). You can also find weekly encouragement at https://waustingardner.substack.com and more resources at http://www.followedbymercy.com.

Let’s be like Jehoshaphat. Let’s seek the Lord and walk in His ways. You can rest here: God is good, God is for you, Christ is enough, and His Mercy will hold you steady.

FAQ: Standing Against the Current in the New Covenant

Is “standing against the current” mostly about taking moral stands?

No. Moral choices matter, but New Covenant living starts deeper than behavior. You stand best when you rest in the finished work of Jesus and live from your already-given identity as a beloved son or daughter.

How do I talk about modern issues without becoming harsh or political?

Start with God’s design of love and covenant beauty, not with fear. Then speak the truth with Mercy, because you’re not trying to win approval; you’re trying to love people toward life.

What do I do when I feel pulled back into performance?

Come back to the Father’s unconditional embrace and remember you are not being graded. Then take one simple step of obedience from rest, not panic, and let that calm strength shape your words and choices.

About the Author: Austin Gardner has spent over 50 years in ministry as a missionary, pastor, and mentor. Having served for two decades in Arequipa, Peru, Austin now focuses on faith-based leadership development and mentoring through a lens of grace and mercy. He is an international keynote speaker, author, and coach who has traveled to over 50 countries sharing the gospel. A survivor of Stage 4 cancer and COVID-19, he is dedicated to helping others find their ultimate satisfaction in Jesus.

Connect with Austin:

Main Website: https://waustingardner.com
Leadership Training: https://alignmentministries.com
Personal Mentoring: https://waustingardner.com/personal-mentoring/
Weekly Encouragement: https://waustingardner.substack.com (English) | https://guillermoagardner.substack.com (Spanish)
Listen: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com

#AustinGardner #Grace #Mercy #FaithBasedDevelopment #ChristianLiving

Austin Gardner: Doing Things God's Way

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 13:00:18 GMT

From Religious Performance to Resting in the Father’s Unconditional Love

If you want one sticky phrase for your life and ministry, here it is: stop pushing and start resting.

That isn’t laziness. It’s the New Covenant. Jesus didn’t come to coach better religious effort. He came to finish the work , bring you into union with Christ , and settle you in the Father’s unconditional love .

So when I read David’s story with the ark, I don’t hear, “Try harder and follow the rules.” Instead, I hear an invitation: step off the religious treadmill and come home to the Father because Jesus perfectly reveals the Father’s goodness. If you’ve seen Jesus, you’ve seen what God is like.

David wanted the right thing. He wanted the ark—the presence of God back where it belonged. Yet at first, he approached it the way exhaustion often talks: “Let’s do what works. Let’s keep it moving.”

And the whole parade stopped not to shame David, but to invite him into a better way.

When performance feels easier than presence

David’s plan started with excitement and sincerity. He gathered leaders, got agreement, and moved forward.

1 Chronicles 13:3 “And let us bring again the ark of our God to us: for we enquired not at it in the days of Saul.”

So far, so good. David wanted God’s presence back in the center.

However, what happened next isn’t mainly about David breaking a rule. It’s about David slipping into a mindset: “Let’s do this the way that feels manageable.”

1 Chronicles 13:7 “And they carried the ark of God in a new cart out of the house of Abinadab…”

A new cart looked respectable. It looked safe. It looked modern for its time. Plus, it worked for the Philistines (1 Samuel 6). Therefore, David did what many sincere believers do: he borrowed a “successful” approach and assumed God would bless it.

That’s the pull of religious performance. It always offers a cart.

A trend.
A shortcut.
A “proven method.”
A pressure-filled version of worship that relies on hype.
A leadership image that feels “strong.”

Yet carts aren’t only cultural. They’re also in control. In other words, a cart is an attempt to manage God —to move His presence with something we can steer.

Meanwhile, the Lord had already shown a different way. Not a gimmick. Not a management strategy. A calling rooted in covenant: carry the presence .

Uzza: When we try to steady what God already holds

As the cart rolled, the oxen stumbled. The ark shifted. Uzza reached out.

1 Chronicles 13:9 “And when they came unto the threshingfloor of Chidon, Uzza put forth his hand to hold the ark; for the oxen stumbled.”

Uzza’s action makes sense to us. If I see something precious about to fall, I reach for it too. His motives looked clean.

Then comes one of the sobering moments in Scripture.

1 Chronicles 13:10 “And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzza, and he smote him, because he put his hand to the ark: and there he died before God.”

I won’t pretend that’s an easy verse. Still, I don’t read it as God saying, “I can’t wait to punish somebody.” I read it as a spotlight on what happens when we treat holy things as if they must be propped up by human effort .

In other words, Uzza touched the ark because the whole setup was unstable. The cart was the problem. The presence of God was never meant to be dragged along by something we control.

So here’s the invitation hidden inside the warning: stop trying to steady God. He is not fragile. He is not nervous. He is not managed.

And because of the finished work of Christ , you don’t come to Him on the basis of your “doing.” You come as a beloved child, welcomed by covenant love, learning to rest in His presence instead of performing for it.

David’s pause: when fear meets the Father’s heart

After Uzza died, the whole atmosphere changed. David pulled back.

He didn’t just feel sad. He felt confused, angry, and afraid. That’s real life. Sometimes you do what you think is “for God,” and it blows up. Then you start asking hard questions:

“Why did this happen?”
“Is God against me?”
“Did I misread Him?”
“Is He impossible to please?”

Here’s where I want to soften the air in the room. Those questions usually come from a picture of God that feels harsh—like He’s waiting for you to miss a step. Yet the New Covenant reveals the Father’s face in Jesus. He is not recruiting you into anxiety. He is drawing you into rest.

I’ve been in ministry for over 50 years, and I’ve had moments where I thought, Lord, I was trying.

Meanwhile, I didn’t always listen first. Sometimes I acted out of pressure. Sometimes I acted out of pride. Often, I acted out of fear.

That fear can drive a lot of “Christian activity.” And for the record, fear can look like passion.

Here’s one of the quotes we use on Followed by Mercy , and it explains so much of what goes wrong in ministry:

“I didn’t become legalistic because I hated grace. I became legalistic because I loved God and was afraid of losing Him.”

Fear always produces carts. Grace and Mercy produce carriers—people who live from union with Christ instead of trying to earn a place near Him.

The reset: from managing God to carrying His presence

David didn’t quit forever. Instead, he learned. He listened. He came back with a different approach—really, God’s approach from the beginning.

1 Chronicles 15:2 “Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them hath the LORD chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister unto him for ever.”

David finally aligned with what God had already established. The ark belonged on shoulders, not on wheels. In plain words: presence is carried, not controlled.

Deuteronomy 10:8 “At that time the LORD separated the tribe of Levi, to bear the ark of the covenant of the LORD, to stand before the LORD to minister unto him…”

Notice the order: separated, bear, stand, minister. That’s not a preference. That’s covenant life. First, God sets apart. Then, He gives you what to carry. After that, you stand in His presence. Finally, ministry flows from union, not strain.

That’s the bigger truth: God isn’t looking for impressive “how.” He’s inviting you into resting where obedience becomes the fruit of relationship, not the price of belonging.

Three “carts” we push (without noticing)

Let me say this plainly: most of us don’t rebel on purpose. We drift. We copy. We assume. Then later, we wonder why we feel tired, anxious, and “far” from God.

Here are three common carts David’s story confronts.

1) We turn worship into something we can measure

David didn’t invent the cart. He copied the Philistines.

Likewise, churches can start asking the wrong question: “What will work?” Instead, a better question is: “What does covenant life look like here?”

Yes, we welcome unbelievers. We should. However, worship isn’t a product. Worship is a response to the Father’s love revealed in Jesus.

If we chase applause, we will eventually lose rest.

2) We confuse “good ideas” with living from union

David’s cart probably sounded brilliant in the meeting. New cart. Strong oxen. Big celebration. That’s the kind of plan people clap for.

Still, a good idea becomes a cart when it replaces dependence on the Lord.

In faith-based development , this tension is constant. You can use leadership tools and a practical structure. However, you must not use them to replace the Holy Spirit or to prop up identity. Methods can serve people, yet they can’t create presence or produce satisfaction in Jesus .

I’ve watched this for decades: churches can grow busy while shrinking in tenderness. Leaders can look confident while quietly living exhausted. Therefore, the “reset” often starts with one simple change: open the Book, breathe, and remember you already belong.

3) We live from pressure instead of covenant love

Culture changes fast. Opinions change faster. Meanwhile, the Father’s love doesn’t change at all.

So here’s a diagnostic question I ask myself: Am I doing this to stay “safe,” or am I doing this because I am loved? That question has pulled me back into peace more times than I can count.

The finished work makes rest possible (and obedience joyful)

Some people hear “Do it God’s way” and instantly feel pressure. They picture God with crossed arms saying, “Try harder.”

That’s not the Father I’ve come to know. The gospel isn’t God handing you a better cart. The gospel is God giving you His Son and, in His Son, giving you a new life.

Because of the finished work of Christ , you don’t obey to get close. You obey because you are close. You don’t strive to earn a smile. You learn to live in the smile of the Father’s unconditional love .

Another Followed by Mercy line we share often says it better than I can:

“The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.”

That’s where the word resting becomes practical. When you rest in being loved, you can obey without trying to earn anything.

And I’ll add this from my own story: I’ve watched the Lord carry me through deep valleys—Stage 4 cancer, and later COVID that brought weakness I could not “push through.” Those seasons stripped away the illusion that I could manage life, ministry, or even my own body with religious effort. Instead, the Father met me with Grace and Mercy , not a clipboard. He showed me His face apart from my “doing.”

If you want to explore that shift more, this internal hub post connects the dots in a personal way: The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are .

Make worship alive, without pushing a cart

Now let’s talk about “alive worship,” because this matters.

I agree with the heart behind it. Worship should not feel dead. The gospel is the greatest news in the world. The local church gets to celebrate Jesus together. That should have life.

At the same time, “alive” can’t mean “worked up.” It has to mean present .

Alive worship isn’t entertainment. It’s resting.

It’s people meeting with God because they know they are welcome.

So, how do we pursue that without drifting into cart-thinking?

Start with Scripture. Let the Word shape the service, not the other way around.
Lead with Jesus. Rules can’t raise the dead, but Christ can.
Aim for clarity. If people can’t understand, they can’t respond with faith.
Make room for a real response. Singing, praying, confessing, and thanksgiving are not fillers. They are family life.

And if you’re a leader, remember this: you can be faithful and still be creative. God didn’t outlaw beauty. He didn’t forbid celebration. He simply invites us to carry the presence to serve from union with Christ , not from pressure.

A personal word from 50+ years: you don’t have to earn the Father’s smile

In my early years, I often mistook intensity for spirituality. I pushed hard. I tried to “get it right.” Meanwhile, I sometimes led as if God was only pleased when everything looked strong.

Over time, through Scripture, suffering, and God’s patient kindness, I started to see the merciful Father more clearly. I stopped looking for a harsh face behind every hard moment. Instead, I started recognizing the Father’s heart, revealed in Jesus, steady and kind.

That change didn’t make me lazy. It made me steadier.

I still want worship to be alive.
I still want preaching to be clear and bold.
I still want the ministry to grow and reach people.

However, I don’t want any of it built on a cart.

Because the Father doesn’t need my polish. He wants my trust. And trust grows best in rest.

“Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.”

That kind of resting doesn’t weaken obedience. It strengthens it. It turns “I have to” into “I get to,” because you’re living from covenant love, not striving for it.

Practical ways to “do it God’s way” this week

If you’re asking, “Okay, what do I do with this?” here are a few simple next steps. Start small. Stay honest. Keep it rooted in grace.

Ask better questions.
Instead of “Will people like this?” ask “Does Scripture lead me here?”
Name the cart you’re tempted to use.
For example: manipulation, hype, pressure, image management, people-pleasing, or copying someone else’s ministry voice.
Open the Bible before you open your notes.
Read a passage slowly. Then ask, “What does God want?” not “What do I want to say?”
Choose obedience in one specific area.
Pick the one thing you already know God has told you. Do that, even if it’s not impressive.
Let mercy be your fuel.
When you fail, don’t hide. Run to the Father. Confess quickly. Get back up.

For more writing like this, the hub is here: https://waustingardner.com/blog/
And if you w ant to keep up with weekly encouragement, I also post on https://waustingardner.substack.com and share Spanish resources through https://guillermoagardner.substack.com/ (and I always point Spanish readers back to the main English home at waustingardner.com).

If you’d rather listen than read, you can find the Followed by Mercy podcast here: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com

FAQ

How do I know if I’m pushing a “religious cart” in ministry?

If you feel constant pressure to keep things impressive, controlled, and “working,” you may be pushing a cart. Instead, come back to the finished work of Christ and lead from rest—because union with Christ produces steady fruit without panic.

How does Jesus show me the Father in a story like this?

Jesus is the clearest picture of God you will ever get. Therefore, when you feel afraid of God, look at Christ again: His kindness, His welcome, His strength, and His love show you the Father’s heart.

What if I’m exhausted and feel like I’ve already failed?

You are not disqualified, and you are not behind. The Father’s love doesn’t rise and fall with your performance; it holds you steady while He restores your joy and your satisfaction in Jesus .

About the Author: Austin Gardner has spent over 50 years in ministry as a missionary, pastor, and mentor... W. Austin Gardner has spent over 50 years in ministry as a missionary, pastor, and mentor. Having served for two decades in Arequipa, Peru, Austin now focuses on faith-based development and leadership training through Alignment Ministries through a lens of Grace and Mercy . He is an international keynote speaker, author, coach, and John Maxwell–certified speaker who has traveled to over 50 countries sharing the gospel. A survivor of Stage 4 cancer and COVID-19, he is dedicated to helping others find their ultimate satisfaction in Jesus .

Connect with Austin:

Main Website: https://waustingardner.com
Leadership Training: https://alignmentministries.com
Personal Mentoring: https://waustingardner.com/personal-mentoring/
Weekly Encouragement: https://waustingardner.substack.com (English) | https://guillermoagardner.substack.com (Spanish)
Listen: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com

Defying God's Rules about Sex: Why "More" Is Never Enough

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 13:30:03 GMT

God’s Design for Sex and the Restless Human Heart

We live in a culture that whispers the same lie on repeat: more will satisfy you. More money. More success. More pleasure. More bodies. More images. More fantasies.

But here's what I've learned in over 50 years of ministry: the pursuit of "more" in any area, especially sex, doesn't lead to satisfaction. It leads to slavery.

And you can trace that truth all the way back to one of the Bible's greatest heroes making one of its most tragic mistakes.

When a King Ignored God's Design

1 Chronicles 14:3 And David took more wives at Jerusalem: and David begat more sons and daughters.

David had just become king. The kingdom was finally his. God had blessed him. And right there, in the middle of God's blessing, David made a choice that would echo through generations.

He took more wives.

Now, let's be clear: this wasn't shocking in that culture. Kings did this. It was a power move, a political strategy, a way to build alliances. But here's what matters: God never meant for it to happen.

God made Adam and Eve. One man. One woman. No replacement parts. No backup plan. No "upgrade" option.

That's the design. That's always been the design.

The Warning Nobody Wanted to Hear

Before Israel ever had a king, God foresaw this. He knew the human heart. He knew what power and prosperity would do to a man.

So He gave a warning.

Deuteronomy 17:17 Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.

Notice what God says: multiplying wives will cause your heart to turn away.

Not "might." Not "could." Will.

God wasn't being controlling. He was being protective. He knows what we refuse to admit: that sex outside His design doesn't satisfy us: it enslaves us. It doesn't fulfill us: it fractures us.

And if we want proof, we don't have to look far.

When the Warning Became Reality

Fast forward one generation. David's son Solomon takes the throne. And Solomon doesn't just take more wives. He takes hundreds.

1 Kings 11:3-4 And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart. For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father.

Read that again. Seven hundred wives. Three hundred concubines. The wisest man who ever lived. The richest man in the world. The most powerful king in Israel's history.

And his heart turned away from God.

It happened exactly the way God said it would.

Solomon wasn't satisfied with more. He was destroyed by it.

The Appetite That's Never Full

Here's the hard truth: mankind has an apparently insatiable appetite for sex.

We're not satisfied with what God gave us. We want more. Different. Newer. Stranger. We chase fantasies. We consume images. We scroll through profiles. We justify secret sins. We tell ourselves this one time, or just to look, or it's not really cheating.

And the whole time, we're proving what God already told us: more doesn't satisfy. It enslaves.

I've walked with men through the wreckage of pornography addiction. I've sat with wives whose husbands couldn't stop looking at other women: either in person or on a screen. I've prayed with couples whose marriages were dying because one or both of them refused to be content with God's design.

And here's what I've seen every single time: the pursuit of "more" always leads to less . Less peace. Less joy. Less intimacy. Less trust. Less of God.

You lose what you're chasing.

What God Actually Wants for You

So what's the answer?

It's not complicated. It's not easy. But it's clear.

Marry one woman. Live with her till death do you part. Cultivate that relationship for the rest of your life. Keep your eyes and your heart off of other women.

That means no lusting over women in person. No porn. No "harmless" fantasies. No secret second life online.

It means fighting for biblical contentment in your marriage. It means choosing, every single day, to honor God by enjoying marriage as He intended.

And here's the beautiful part: when you stop chasing "more" and start resting in what God gave you, you discover something stunning.

Satisfaction isn't found in more. It's found in Jesus.

He's the only one who can fill the ache inside you. He's the only one who can take the restless craving for "more" and replace it with deep, soul-level rest.

You were made for Him first. And when you're satisfied in Him, you can actually be present: and grateful: for the spouse He gave you.

A Pastoral Word: You're Not Too Far Gone

If you're reading this and thinking, I've already blown it, let me say this clearly: you are not beyond God's grace.

Maybe you've been living a double life for years. Maybe your marriage is hanging by a thread. Maybe you've hurt people you love, and you don't know if they'll ever trust you again.

I get it. I've been in ministry long enough to know that sexual sin is one of the hardest to confess and one of the most painful to overcome.

But here's what I also know: God's mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope.

The same God who loved David, even after his catastrophic failure with Bathsheba, loves you. The same God who never gave up on Solomon's kingdom never gives up on yours.

You're not being graded. You're being held.

Start today. Confess it. Get help. Talk to your spouse. Find a mentor. Do whatever it takes to save your marriage biblically and honor God with your life.

And if you need encouragement along the way, I'd love for you to check out my podcast, Followed by Mercy . It's all about living in God's grace: not from fear or pressure, but from being loved first.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Q: Is it wrong to find other people attractive even if I'm married?

Attraction happens: we're human. But there's a difference between noticing someone and lusting after them. The moment you start feeding that attraction with your thoughts or actions, you've crossed a line. Guard your heart. Keep your eyes on your spouse.

Q: How do I break free from pornography?

You can't do it alone. Confess it to someone you trust. Install accountability software. Replace the habit with something life-giving (prayer, exercise, time with your spouse). And most importantly, lean into the truth that your identity is not in your sin: it's in Christ.

Q: What if my spouse has already been unfaithful?

This is one of the hardest trials a marriage can face, but it's not the end. Healing is possible with honesty, accountability, and God's grace. Seek godly counsel. Consider working with a pastor or biblical mentor . Don't rush the process, but don't give up hope either.

W. Austin Gardner is a pastor, author, and mentor with over 50 years of ministry experience, including 20 years as a missionary in Peru. After surviving Stage 4 cancer and COVID-19, Austin now dedicates his time to coaching pastors and ministry leaders through Alignment Ministries. Learn more at waustingardner.com or listen to his podcast Followed by Mercy .

The Four-Hour Stand: Why We Need a Fresh Respect for the Word of God

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:30:07 GMT

From Casual to Consecrated: Honoring the Voice of God

Four hours.

Standing.

No chairs. No bathroom breaks. No coffee runs.

Just standing there, listening to the Word of God being read.

I read that, and I'm blown away. I'm humbled. Because if I'm being honest, I don't know if I could do it.

When the Book Was Opened, the People Stood

Nehemiah 8:5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up:

Picture it.

Ezra is on a platform. He's holding the book, the Word of God. Everyone can see him. And when he opens it, something happens.

They all stand up.

Not because someone told them to. Not because it was tradition. Not because they were trying to impress anybody.

They stood up because they knew who was about to speak.

This wasn't a ritual. This was reverence.

They Knew Who Was Talking

Here's what gets me: they stood there for four hours.

Four. Hours.

Their legs had to hurt. Their backs had to ache. They had to be uncomfortable.

But they stayed.

They listened attentively. They paid attention. They focused, not because it was easy, but because they believed they were hearing from God.

That's the difference.

They didn't stand because the bulletin said to stand. They stood because they understood what was happening: God was speaking.

And when God speaks, you don't slouch.

I'm Not Sure I Could Have Done It

I read this passage, and I have to be honest with myself.

I don't think I could have done what they did.

Four hours? Standing? Listening?

I get restless after a 30-minute sermon.

I check my phone. I think about lunch. I let my mind wander to the week ahead.

And I'm supposed to be the one teaching people to love the Bible.

But that's exactly why this story hits me so hard. It exposes something in me, and maybe in all of us.

We've lost respect for the Word of God.

Not intentionally. Not because we hate it.

We've just gotten comfortable. Casual. Distracted.

We treat the Bible like background noise instead of the voice of the living God.

What Respect Actually Looks Like

Real respect for the Bible isn't about standing during the Scripture reading at church (though there's nothing wrong with that).

Real respect is:

Paying attention when it's being taught: even when it's uncomfortable.

Putting it into practice : not just underlining verses.

Making yourself listen when your mind wants to wander: because you know who is talking.

Being willing to be uncomfortable if that's what it takes to hear God clearly.

The people in Nehemiah 8 didn't have comfy chairs or air conditioning. They didn't have the luxury of tuning out.

They stood. They listened. They let the Word do its work.

And it changed them.

Let's Show Some Respect

I don't need more rituals.

I don't need to make the Bible into some kind of religious performance.

But I do need to lift the Word of God back to where it belongs: above my opinions, above my convenience, above my comfort.

I need to remember that when I open this book, I'm not just reading words on a page.

I'm hearing from God.

And if that's true: if the God of the universe is actually speaking: then maybe I should pay attention.

Maybe I should be willing to be a little uncomfortable.

Maybe I should stand.

Not physically (though you can if you want).

But spiritually.

With my heart. With my focus. With my obedience.

It's Not About Perfection: It's About Position

Here's the good news: this isn't about measuring up.

God doesn't love you more if you memorize more verses or sit through a four-hour sermon.

This is about recognizing what you're holding when you open the Bible.

It's the Word of the living God. And He's speaking to you: not to shame you, not to measure you, but to guide you, to comfort you, to transform you.

You don't have to be perfect to respect the Word.

You just have to be present.

And when you position yourself to really listen: when you quiet the noise, turn off the distractions, and let God speak: everything changes.

That's what happened in Nehemiah 8. The people stood. They listened. And revival broke out.

Not because they earned it.

But because they honored the Word.

A Pastoral Close

Friend, I'm not writing this from a place of perfection.

I'm writing this from a place of need.

I need more reverence. I need to lift the Word higher in my life. I need to put it into practice rather than just talk about it.

And maybe you do too.

So let's do it together.

Let's turn off the phone. Let's open the Bible. Let's listen: really listen: as our lives depend on it.

Because they do.

Want to go deeper in your walk with God? Check out my story of cancer, COVID, and God's relentless mercy at waustingardner.com/w-austin-gardner . And if you're hungry for more grace-centered teaching, read The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are .

You can also listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast at followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com or subscribe on YouTube at @waustingardner .

FAQ: Respect for the Word of God

Why did the people in Nehemiah 8:5 stand for four hours?

They stood because they recognized they were hearing the Word of God, not just a nice speech. Their physical discomfort was secondary to their reverence for Scripture. It wasn't a ritual: it was a response to who was speaking.

How can I show more respect for the Bible in my daily life?

Start by making time to read it without distractions: turn off your phone, close the laptop, and really listen. Then put what you read into practice. Respect isn't just about how you hold the Bible; it's about how you obey it.

Does God expect me to stand for four hours like the people in Nehemiah?

No. God isn't asking for physical endurance contests. He's asking for a heart that honors His Word above convenience, distraction, and comfort. The "standing" that matters is the posture of your heart: are you willing to listen, even when it's uncomfortable?

Set Your House in Order: What If You Got the Call Today?

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:45:00 GMT

Preparing Your Heart, Your Home, and Your Hope Before the Final Call Comes

2 Kings 20:1 In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.

Can you imagine getting that message?

Not from a doctor. Not from test results. From God Himself through His prophet.

"Set your house in order. You're going to die."

Hezekiah actually asked God for fifteen more years. God gave them to him. And if we're honest about what the Bible tells us, he wasted most of them.

But here's what grabs me about this verse: we could all get this message any day . We just won't get the advance notice Hezekiah got.

The Call Nobody Expects

I've sat by the bed of a good friend who was dying prematurely. I've watched the stress crushing him and his family. As a pastor for over fifty years, and as someone who's been close to death multiple times myself, Stage 4 cancer, COVID on a ventilator, I've seen what happens when the call comes.

Most people aren't ready.

Not because they're bad people. Not because they don't love God. They're just not prepared for how suddenly it can all change.

The doctor says, "It's cancer, and it's advanced." The accident happens. The diagnosis comes. And suddenly you're facing the end with your house in complete disorder.

So let me ask you: If you got the message today, what would you have to do to set your house in order?

The Practical Stuff Nobody Wants to Talk About

Yeah, I know. This is uncomfortable. But we need to talk about it.

The life insurance guy is right about some things:

Do you have life insurance?
Have you made funeral arrangements?
Does your spouse know where everything is?
Are your financial documents organized?
Is your will up to date?

I'm not trying to be morbid. I'm trying to be practical. Because when death comes knocking, your family will be dealing with grief. Don't make them also deal with chaos.

Get this stuff handled. Today. Not someday.

The Deeper Question That Keeps Me Up at Night

But here's what really matters: Would you need to change how you live?

Think about that for a minute.

If you knew you had six months, would you suddenly start treating your spouse differently? Would you finally have those conversations you've been avoiding? Would you confess that sin you've been hiding?

Would you scramble to get close to God real quick?

Here's the uncomfortable truth: If the answer to any of those questions is yes, then you already know your house isn't in order.

What Would Actually Change?

Let's get specific. How would the news that you're dying affect your priorities?

Would you work less and spend more time with family? Then why aren't you doing that now?

Would you pray more? What's stopping you today?

Would it change what you watch on TV or scroll through on the Internet? Then maybe it's time to change that before you get the diagnosis.

See, here's what I learned during my battles with cancer and COVID: the things that matter most when you're dying are the things that should matter most while you're living .

Time with family. Your relationship with God. The unconditional love that comes from resting in grace instead of grinding in performance. Those conversations you keep putting off. That forgiveness you need to ask for.

The Grace in the Warning

Here's the good news in all this heaviness: You're getting a warning Hezekiah didn't get.

You're reading this right now. You're still breathing. You still have time.

God is not disappointed in you for not having your house in order yet. He's giving you this moment to start.

> "Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first."

That's what I've learned through years of ministry and personal crisis. You don't have to get everything perfect before God accepts you. You're already accepted. You're already loved. Now, from that place of being loved, you can start putting things in order.

The Question That Matters Most

But underneath all the practical stuff and the relationship stuff, there's one question that trumps everything else:

Are you sure you're a born-again child of God?

Because you can have perfect life insurance, ideal funeral plans, and great relationships with everyone, and still not be ready to die.

Are you trusting in Jesus Christ alone for your salvation? Not your good works. Not your church attendance. Not your moral track record. Just Jesus.

Have you actually been born again, or are you just assuming you're okay because you grew up in church?

This isn't the time for religious performance or spiritual guesswork. This is about a genuine relationship with God through His Son .

Start Today

We're all going to die. That's not pessimism. That's reality.

The question is: Will you be ready?

Set your house in order. Not because you're being graded on your performance. Not because God is waiting to catch you unprepared. But because the life you're living right now matters, and the relationships you're building today are what you'll want to have been investing in when that final moment comes.

Get your practical affairs handled. Fix those broken relationships. Get right with God. Stop living like you have endless time.

Because sooner or later, the same message is coming to you. And you won't get fifteen extra years to waste.

You'll just get whatever time you have left right now.

FAQ: Getting Your House in Order

What does "setting your house in order" actually mean for believers today?

It means being ready spiritually, relationally, and practically. Spiritually, it's about knowing you're right with God through faith in Jesus. Relationally, it's about reconciling with people and living without unresolved conflicts. Practically, it's having your affairs organized so your family isn't left in chaos.

How do I know if I'm truly born again?

Being born again means you've placed your faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation: not your works, your religion, or your moral efforts. It's trusting that His death and resurrection fully paid for your sins. If you're genuinely born again, the Holy Spirit will confirm it in your heart, and you'll see evidence of changed desires and growing faith in your life.

What if I've been putting off important conversations or reconciliation?

Start today. Don't wait for a diagnosis or crisis to force your hand. Most of us assume we have more time than we actually do. The freedom of grace gives us the courage to humble ourselves and make things right now, not later.

Want more conversations about living in the reality of God's grace? Listen to the Followed By Mercy podcast where I share stories from fifty-plus years of ministry, near-death experiences, and what it really means to rest in God's unconditional love.

Don't Doubt in the Dark What You Heard in the Light: Staying Faithful to God's Calling

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 13:45:02 GMT

Trusting God’s Voice When Circumstances Grow Quiet and Confusing

You know the call was real. You heard it clearly when everything was bright and hopeful. God spoke. You responded. You stepped out in faith.

Then the lights went out.

And now you're wondering if you misheard the whole thing.

If you've ever doubted in the dark what you heard in the light, you're not alone. Every ministry leader I've known, including me, has walked through seasons where the calling felt crystal clear at first, then suddenly became cloudy when circumstances turned hard.

But here's the truth: The darkness doesn't change what God said in the light.

When the Lights Go Out

Ministry leadership has a way of revealing what's really inside us. When things are going well, it's easy to feel confident in your calling. The fruit is visible. People are responding. You're making a difference.

Then something shifts.

Maybe it's resistance you didn't expect. Financial pressure. Criticism. Loneliness. Health issues. Family conflict. Or just the slow, grinding weight of doing hard work with no visible results.

And suddenly, the same calling that felt like fire in your bones starts to feel like a burden you're not sure you can carry.

That's when the enemy whispers: Maybe you got it wrong. Maybe God didn't really call you. Maybe you should quit.

The Pattern of Doubt

Doubt isn't a sign you've lost your calling. It's a sign you're human.

Even the apostle Paul faced uncertainty. He was compelled by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem, but he openly admitted he didn't know what would happen to him there. He just knew God was leading him forward.

Acts 20:22-23
> "And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me."

Paul didn't have all the answers. He didn't know how the story would end. But he refused to let the darkness change what he heard in the light.

That's the test of spiritual alignment: Will you trust what God said when circumstances scream something different?

What God Says About Your Calling

Your calling isn't rooted in your feelings. It's rooted in God's eternal purpose.

When God calls you, He doesn't base it on your track record, your perfection, or your ability to never mess up. He calls you because He loves you and has a plan that's bigger than your current season.

Romans 11:29
> "For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance."

That means God doesn't change His mind about you. He doesn't withdraw His calling when you struggle, fail, or face opposition. He doesn't measure your faithfulness by results. He measures it by whether you keep showing up.

You don't have to see the whole path. You just have to take the next step.

I've spent over 50 years in ministry, 20 of those as a missionary in Peru, and I can tell you this: Most of ministry is faithfulness in obscurity. It's doing the right thing when no one is watching. It's trusting God's word when your circumstances seem contradictory.

You're not being graded. You're being held.

Why We Doubt When Things Get Hard

Doubt creeps in when we confuse calling with comfort.

We assume that if God called us, the path should be easier. But that's not how it works. God's calling often leads us into situations that stretch us, break us, and rebuild us into people who can carry what He's entrusted to us.

Here's what I've learned: Difficulty is not a sign you're off track. It's often a sign you're exactly where God wants you.

The problem isn't the darkness. The problem is that we forget what we heard in the light.

When Paul said he was "bound in the spirit," he wasn't talking about freedom from hardship. He was talking about being locked into obedience. He was committed to what God said, no matter what came next.

That's spiritual alignment. It's choosing to stay aligned with God's word even when everything else falls apart.

Staying Faithful When the Path Gets Dark

So how do you stay faithful when the lights go out? Here are a few principles I've leaned on when my own calling felt uncertain:

1. Remember What God Said

Go back to the moment when God spoke. Write it down. Keep it in front of you. Remind yourself of the clarity you had before the confusion set in.

God doesn't speak and then walk away. What He said in the light is still true in the dark.

2. Don't Use Hardship as an Excuse to Quit

Trials are part of the journey, not a detour from it. When things get hard, the temptation is to interpret difficulty as a sign you're supposed to stop. But most of the time, hardship is preparation for what's next.

James 1:2-3
> "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience."

Your faith is being tested so it can grow. Don't let temporary pain convince you to abandon an eternal purpose.

3. Stay Close to the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit doesn't shout. He whispers. And when you're in the dark, you need to be quiet enough to hear Him.

Prayer isn't just asking God for help. It's positioning yourself to receive His guidance. Spend time in Scripture. Listen. Be willing to obey even when it doesn't make sense.

God's promptings are clear when you're paying attention. Stay responsive. Stay pliable.

4. Keep Your Eyes on Jesus, Not Your Circumstances

Your circumstances are temporary. Your calling is eternal. If you focus on what's going wrong, you'll lose sight of who you're following.

Fix your eyes on Jesus. He's the author and finisher of your faith. He's not surprised by your struggle. He's not disappointed in your weakness. He's walking with you through the darkness.

5. Trust Faithfulness Over Results

You're not responsible for results. You're responsible for faithfulness.

Most people won't get public recognition for their obedience. But God multiplies faithfulness in ways you can't see. Keep showing up. Keep serving. Keep loving. Keep trusting.

Your impact isn't measured by applause. It's measured by obedience.

The Freedom of Alignment

Here's what I want you to hear: You don't have to prove your calling. You just have to walk in it.

God is not grading you. He's not keeping a scorecard. He's not waiting for you to fail so He can revoke your assignment.

He loves you. He called you. And He's with you in the dark.

When you align your life with God's truth, when you refuse to doubt in the dark what you heard in the light, you experience a freedom that circumstances can't touch.

You stop performing. You start trusting.

You stop striving. You start resting.

You stop doubting. You start believing.

That's what spiritual alignment looks like. It's not perfection. It's not having all the answers. It's simply choosing to trust God's word over your feelings.

And that's enough.

What's Next?

If you're in a dark season right now, I want to encourage you: Don't quit.

Go back to what God said. Write it down. Pray over it. Ask the Holy Spirit to remind you of the clarity you had before the confusion set in.

And then take the next step.

If you need help staying aligned to God's calling, if you're looking for biblical coaching and practical support, I'd love to walk with you. Through Alignment Ministries , I work with ministry leaders who are navigating hard seasons and need someone to help them stay faithful.

You can also dive deeper into what it means to live from God's unconditional love in my article, The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are . It's a game-changer for ministry leaders who've been carrying too much pressure.

And if you want more encouragement, check out the Followed by Mercy podcast , where I share stories of grace, resilience, and what it means to keep going when the lights go out.

You're not alone. And you're not off track.

Don't doubt in the dark what you heard in the light.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I'm truly called or just holding on to something I need to let go?

Ask yourself: Did God speak clearly when I started? If the answer is yes, then difficulty isn't a reason to quit. If you're genuinely unsure, get counsel from trusted mentors and spend time listening to the Holy Spirit. But don't let fear or hardship be your deciding factor.

What if I've already doubted and feel like I've failed?

Doubt doesn't disqualify you. Peter doubted. Thomas doubted. David doubted. God doesn't measure you by perfection: He measures you by whether you come back to Him. Confess it. Realign. Keep moving forward.

How do I stay faithful when I don't see any results?

Results are God's responsibility. Faithfulness is yours. Focus on obedience, not outcomes. Trust that God is working even when you can't see it. Most kingdom work happens in secret, and God multiplies faithfulness in ways you'll never know this side of heaven.

Leading From the Inside Out (Biblical Clarity for Ministry Leaders)

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:45:03 GMT

How Self Leadership Shapes Spiritual Authority and Long Term Faithfulness

I've watched too many leaders crash.

Not because they lacked gifting. Not because they couldn't preach, lead, or cast vision. They crashed because they never learned to lead themselves first.

After 50+ years in ministry, 20 of them as a missionary in Peru, I can tell you this: Your public ministry will never rise higher than your private integrity.

You can build a church, start a nonprofit, or launch a platform. But if you're not aligned internally, it all comes down in the end.

And here's the hard part: most of us don't even know we're misaligned until the collapse happens.

What Does "Leading From the Inside Out" Mean?

It means you manage your heart before you manage your calendar.

It means you deal with your pride before you deal with your people.

It means you submit your emotions, your thought life, your body, and your spirit to the lordship of Jesus, not just on Sunday, but on Monday when no one's watching.

Proverbs 4:23 says it clearly:

> "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."

The King James says "keep thy heart." Other translations say "guard your heart." But the Hebrew word shamar means more than just protect, it means to watch over, to give attention to, to maintain.

You're not just defending your heart from attack. You're actively managing what's going on inside it.

And that's where most of us fail.

The Four Dimensions of Self-Leadership

If you're going to lead from the inside out, you've got to lead yourself in four key areas. I didn't invent this list; it's what I've seen modeled in Scripture and confirmed in 50+ years of walking with leaders who lasted.

1. Emotional Self-Leadership

This is about knowing what you feel and why you feel it.

Most leaders are so busy managing everyone else's emotions that they never stop to process their own. You're angry, but you don't know why. You're discouraged, but you don't have time to deal with it. So you push it down, and it leaks out sideways.

Emotional self-leadership means you stop and ask: Why am I reacting this way? What's really going on in my heart?

It means you confess bitterness before it becomes a root. It means you deal with envy before it destroys your friendships. It means you grieve losses instead of just moving on to the next thing.

Jesus wept. He got angry. He felt deep compassion. He experienced the full range of human emotion, and He never sinned in it.

You can too. But it starts with paying attention.

2. Intellectual Self-Leadership

This is about what you're feeding your mind.

What are you reading? What are you watching? What voices are shaping your theology, your worldview, your understanding of God?

Romans 12:2 says:

> "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

Your mind doesn't renew itself. You have to intentionally fill it with truth.

I'm not talking about just reading your Bible (though you better be doing that). I'm talking about developing your thinking, sharpening your leadership, and growing in wisdom.

If you're not learning, you're dying. And if you're only learning from the world, you're being conformed to the world.

3. Physical Self-Leadership

This is the one we ignore the most.

We act like our bodies don't matter because we're doing "spiritual work." But your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. You can't lead well if you're exhausted, burnt out, or ignoring basic health.

I learned this the hard way. I survived Stage 4 cancer and COVID. And I'll tell you: your body will send you signals long before it shuts down. The question is whether you'll listen.

Physical self-leadership means you sleep. You eat. You move. You rest. You take Sabbath seriously. You don't treat your body like it's expendable just because the ministry is demanding.

4. Spiritual Self-Leadership

This is the foundation.

You can manage your emotions, sharpen your mind, and care for your body, but if you're not walking in daily dependence on God, none of it matters.

Galatians 5:16 puts it plainly:

> "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh."

Walking in the Spirit isn't passive. It's active. It's daily. It's a choice you make every morning: Today, I'm going to submit my will to His. Today, I'm going to listen for His voice. Today, I'm going to obey what He says.

You lead yourself spiritually when you pray, when you don't feel like it. When you repent when no one knows you sinned. When you stay in the Word, even when it's dry.

This is where alignment begins.

Why Leaders Fail Privately

Here's what I've seen over and over: Leaders who succeed publicly but fail privately do so because they apply more leadership to their organizations than they do to their own lives.

They're strategic with their church. They're disciplined with their staff. They're intentional with their vision.

But they're lazy with their souls.

They don't pray unless it's public. They don't confess unless they're caught. They don't repent unless there's pressure.

And eventually, the gap between their public success and their private failure becomes too wide to bridge.

You can't build on the outside what you haven't built on the inside.

If you want to lead a church, lead your family first. If you want to lead a team, lead yourself first. If you want to influence a generation, get aligned with God first.

That's what alignment is: bringing your inside into agreement with God's heart before you ever step onto a platform.

Practical Action Steps: How to Lead Yourself Today

Here's where the rubber meets the road. You can read this and nod along, but if you don't do something, nothing changes.

So here are three steps you can take this week:

Step 1: Schedule a Personal Leadership Audit

Grab a journal. Sit down. Ask yourself these questions:

Emotionally: What emotions have I been avoiding? What am I really feeling?
Intellectually: What am I learning right now? Am I growing, or coasting?
Physically: Am I rested? Am I healthy? Am I ignoring warning signs?
Spiritually: When was the last time I truly met with God, not for sermon prep, but for my own soul?

Write down your answers. Be honest. Don't edit yourself.

Step 2: Identify One Area of Misalignment

You don't have to fix everything today. Pick one area where you know you're out of alignment.

Maybe it's your prayer life. Maybe it's your anger. Maybe it's your exhaustion. Maybe it's your pride.

Name it. Confess it to God. Ask Him to help you address it.

Step 3: Build One New Habit

Alignment doesn't happen in a moment. It happens in the dailies.

Pick one small habit that will move you toward alignment:

Start your day with 15 minutes of silence before God.
Go to bed 30 minutes earlier.
Take a walk three times a week.
Read one chapter of a leadership book every day.

Don't try to overhaul your life overnight. Just build one brick.

Keep Walking With Me

If this resonates with you, I want to invite you to go deeper.

I've spent over five decades in ministry, and I've learned this: you can't do this alone. You need community. You need mentors. You need people who will ask you the hard questions and not let you off the hook.

That's why I started Alignment Ministries , to help leaders get aligned from the inside out. We offer coaching, training, and resources built on biblical wisdom and decades of real-world ministry experience.

And if you're looking for more on this topic, head over to my main hub at waustingardner.com and start with The Big Leap of Faith , it's the foundation for everything I teach about grace, rest, and leading from the inside out.

You can also join me on the Followed by Mercy podcast , where I share stories, lessons, and honest conversations about what it really takes to lead well.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to lead from the inside out?

Leading from the inside out means you prioritize your private spiritual health over your public ministry success. You manage your heart, mind, body, and spirit before you manage your organization, team, or platform.

How do I know if I'm misaligned?

If there's a gap between who you are in public and who you are in private, you're misaligned. If you're anxious, irritable, burnt out, or spiritually dry, but still performing well publicly, you're misaligned. Alignment means consistency between your inner life and your outer leadership.

Can I lead well without dealing with my personal issues?

For a season, yes. But not for a lifetime. Eventually, unaddressed personal issues leak into your leadership and undermine your influence. The question isn't whether you'll deal with them: it's whether you'll deal with them before they destroy what you've built.

The Freedom of 'No': Why Biblical Contentment is a Leader's Greatest Shield

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:45:05 GMT

How Knowing Christ Is Enough Sets Leaders Free from the Tyranny of More

I want to ask you something uncomfortable: Can you be bought?

I don't mean in some dramatic, mob-movie kind of way. I mean: Is there

a number, a title, a level of applause that would make you bend? A platform big enough that you'd compromise just a little? A donor influential enough that you'd adjust your message?

Most of us would say no. But the truth is, we don't really know until the offer comes.

I've spent over 50 years in ministry, 20 of those as a missionary in Peru, and I've watched good leaders make terrible decisions. Not because they were evil. Because they were empty . They were running on fumes spiritually, chasing the next thing that might finally make them feel like enough.

And when you're empty, you become buyable.

The Trap of 'More'

The evangelical world is obsessed with growth. More people. More money. More influence. More buildings. More likes. More shares. More everything.

And somewhere along the way, we started believing that "more" equals "blessed." That if God is really with us, the numbers will prove it. The budget will expand. The invitations will multiply.

But here's what nobody tells you: the pursuit of "more" will destroy you.

It won't feel like destruction at first. It'll feel like ambition. Like vision. Like faithfulness. But slowly, subtly, it becomes the thing you serve instead of the One you claim to follow.

You start measuring your worth by your metrics. You start making decisions based on what will "grow the ministry" instead of what's actually right. You start saying yes to things you should refuse, because the donor is generous, because the opportunity is huge, because turning it down feels like ingratitude.

And before you know it, you're wearing golden handcuffs. You can't speak the truth anymore because too many people depend on you. You can't obey God freely because you've built a machine that requires constant feeding.

You've become a slave to "more."

When Jesus Is Enough

Philippians 4:11-13

> "Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."

Paul didn't start out content. He learned it. And he learned it the hard way, through hunger, through loss, through seasons where God stripped away everything except Himself.

That phrase "I can do all things through Christ" has been slapped on gym walls and coffee mugs for decades. But in context, Paul isn't talking about achieving more. He's talking about surviving less . He's saying, "I can handle poverty. I can handle obscurity. I can handle having nothing, because Christ is enough."

That's the kind of strength the world doesn't understand. It's not the strength to build an empire. It's the strength to walk away from one if God asks you to.

Contentment isn't passive resignation. It's not saying, "Well, I guess this is all I get." Contentment is a settled confidence that God's provision, whatever it looks like, is exactly what you need. It's freedom from the relentless itch for validation, from the fear that you're missing out, from the pride that says you deserve more recognition than you're getting.

And here's the kicker: When you're content in Jesus, you can't be bought.

You can say no to the big donor who wants to control your message. You can walk away from the platform that requires you to compromise. You can refuse the spotlight if it means losing your soul.

Because you're not working for applause. You're not ministering for money. You're not leading to prove something. You're serving out of fullness , not emptiness. And that changes everything.

Fifty Years of Learning to Be Satisfied

I won't pretend I figured this out early. I didn't.

For years, I hustled. I built. I pushed. I believed that if I worked hard enough, prayed long enough, sacrificed enough, God would bless the work in visible, undeniable ways. And when things didn't grow the way I thought they should, I questioned everything. My calling. My methods. My worth.

I've walked through seasons of deep obscurity. I've been misunderstood, overlooked, and yes, canceled . I've battled Stage 4 cancer and survived COVID. I've buried dreams and watched ministries I poured my life into fall apart.

And somewhere in all of that, God taught me what Paul learned: Christ is enough.

Not Christ plus recognition. Not Christ plus financial security. Not Christ plus a legacy people will remember. Just Christ.

When you know that, really know it, down in your bones, you become dangerous. Not dangerous in a reckless way. Dangerous in a free way. You can't be manipulated. You can't be bought. You can't be leveraged.

You can lead with integrity because you're not afraid of losing what you never needed in the first place.

The Shield of Contentment

Contentment protects you in three specific ways:

1. It frees you from comparison.

When you're content, you stop measuring yourself against other leaders. You stop obsessing over who's growing faster, who got the bigger platform, who's being celebrated while you're being ignored. You can celebrate others without bitterness because their success doesn't threaten yours.

2. It anchors you in truth.

When you're chasing "more," you become a people-pleaser. You adjust your message to keep the crowd happy. You soften the edges to avoid offense. But when you're content, you can preach the whole counsel of God, even the parts that cost you followers. You're not trapped by your need for approval.

3. It gives you clarity.

Contentment brings focus. When you're no longer scrambling after every opportunity, you can actually hear God's voice. You can discern which invitations are from Him and which are just distractions dressed up as blessings. You can say no without guilt and yes without fear.

Contentment isn't a shield that protects you from hardship. It's a shield that protects you from compromise . And in ministry, that's the protection you need most.

Reflection Questions

Before you move on, sit with these for a minute:

What "more" are you chasing right now? Is it numbers, money, recognition, security? Be honest. Name it.

If God asked you to walk away from your platform tomorrow, could you do it? Or have you built something you can't afford to lose?

When was the last time you said no to an opportunity because it didn't align with your calling, even though it would have grown your ministry?

FAQ

What does biblical contentment actually mean?

Biblical contentment means being satisfied with God's provision in every season, whether you have much or little. It's not passivity or laziness; it's a deep trust that God knows what you need and gives you exactly that. Paul describes it in Philippians 4:11-13 as a learned skill, not a personality trait.

How is contentment different from complacency?

Contentment is rooted in trust; complacency is rooted in apathy. A content leader works hard, serves faithfully, and pursues excellence, but does it from rest, not desperation. A complacent leader stops caring. Contentment says, "God is enough." Complacency says, "I don't care anymore."

Can a leader be content and still have vision for growth?

Absolutely. Contentment doesn't kill ambition: it redeems it. A content leader can dream big and work hard without being enslaved to outcomes. The difference is this: a content leader can release the results to God. An anxious leader holds on so tightly that the mission becomes an idol.

If you're tired of the performance treadmill and ready to lead from a place of rest, I'd love to walk with you. I mentor pastors and ministry leaders through Alignment Ministries , and I share honest, grace-centered encouragement every week on the Followed by Mercy podcast . You can also find more articles like this one, along with my full story, over on my main site .

And if you've never read it, start here: The Big Leap of Faith . It's the foundation for everything I teach. Because until you know you're loved: really loved, without conditions: you'll keep chasing "more."

Obey from the Heart (2 Kings 10:31): The Danger of Halfhearted Obedience

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 13:15:04 GMT

When outward success masks inward compromise.

I've done the right thing halfway more times than I care to admit.

I've preached a sermon while nursing bitterness. I've led a meeting while ignoring conviction. I've counseled people about forgiveness while holding grudges. And every single time, I thought I was fine because I was doing the right things outwardly.

But God doesn't grade on partial obedience.

2 Kings 10:31

> "But Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the LORD God of Israel with all his heart: for he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, which made Israel to sin."

That verse stops me cold every time I read it. Jehu did some impressive things for God. He destroyed Baal worship. He wiped out an entire dynasty of wickedness. He was zealous, dramatic, and effective.

And yet, God said he didn't obey with all his heart.

Jehu's Half-Reform: Impressive but Incomplete

Jehu was a man of action. When God gave him a mission, he executed it with speed and intensity. He eliminated the house of Ahab. He gathered all the prophets and priests of Baal into one place and destroyed them. He turned the temple of Baal into a public latrine. That's not timid obedience, that's bold, public reformation.

But here's the problem: Jehu stopped short.

He got rid of Baal worship, but he kept the golden calves at Bethel and Dan, the same idols Jeroboam had set up generations earlier. Those idols were culturally convenient. They were politically useful. They kept Israel distinct from Judah. And Jehu decided they could stay.

Selective obedience is still disobedience.

Jehu did what looked righteous. But he didn't do what God said. And the result? He led an entire nation back into the same sin that had been poisoning Israel for decades.

The Heart Issue: Partial Devotion Equals Divided Loyalty

The Scripture doesn't say Jehu ignored God. It says he "took no heed to walk in the law of the LORD God of Israel with all his heart ."

That phrase, "with all his heart", is the biblical measure of true obedience.

Partial devotion is divided loyalty. And divided loyalty always produces half-reform. Jehu rooted out one false system while preserving another. He cleaned house in one area while leaving idolatry alive and breeding in another.

I've done the same thing. I've been willing to deal with the sins that looked bad while protecting the ones that felt comfortable. I've been quick to judge others' failures while excusing my own. I've made bold moves for God in public while holding back my heart in private.

And every time, I told myself it was enough. But it wasn't. Because God doesn't just want our actions. He wants our hearts.

The Personal Question: Are We Listening with Half a Heart?

Here's the question that wrecks me: How often do I only partially listen to God?

How often do I obey the parts of Scripture that are easy or convenient while quietly ignoring the parts that would cost me something?

How often do I serve God with half my heart, doing just enough to feel spiritual without surrendering the areas I want to control?

Jehu's failure is a mirror. It shows us what happens when we let cultural convenience, personal preference, or fear dictate which commands we follow.

We can be busy in ministry and still be halfhearted. We can look effective and still be holding back. We can impress people and still be disappointing God.

Here's what halfhearted obedience looks like in practice:

We'll preach the gospel but refuse to forgive the person who hurt us.
We'll serve in church but neglect the Bible at home.
We'll pray in public but live selfishly in private.
We'll talk about holiness, but protect our secret sins.
We'll lead others while ignoring God's conviction in our own lives.

That's the danger. We think partial obedience counts. We think God grades on effort. We think that if we do something right, it makes up for the areas we're holding back.

But God doesn't work that way.

The Warning: Doing What We Think Is Right Is Dangerous

The scariest part of Jehu's story is that he probably thought he was doing great.

He'd just pulled off one of the most dramatic reforms in Israel's history. He'd destroyed false worship. He'd cleared out corruption. And yet, Scripture says he "departed not from the sins of Jeroboam."

He stayed stuck in the sins of those before him. He repeated the same patterns. He led others into the same rebellion.

Why? Because he did what he thought was right instead of fully obeying what God said was right.

That's where the danger lives, in the gap between what we think is good enough and what God actually requires.

We can justify almost anything when we're only half-listening. We can rationalize holding back when we're only half-surrendered. We can convince ourselves that God understands when we're only half-committed.

But that's not obedience. That's self-deception.

The Call: Listen Fully. Obey Completely. Put God First.

So what do we do?

We stop pretending that partial obedience is enough. We stop protecting the comfortable sins. We stop doing what we think is right and start doing what God says is right, all of it .

Here's what that looks like in real life:

1. Get honest about where you're holding back.

Ask God to show you the areas where you've been selective. Where have you obeyed publicly but resisted privately? Where have you made bold moves for God while quietly protecting your own preferences?

2. Stop justifying the "convenient" sins.

Jehu kept the golden calves because they were culturally useful. What are you keeping because it's easier, more comfortable, or politically safe? Name it. Confess it. Let it go.

3. Obey with your whole heart, not just your hands.

God doesn't just want your service. He wants your surrender. He doesn't just want your actions. He wants your affection. Whole-heartedness is the biblical measure of faithfulness.

4. Remember: A heart fully given produces consistent obedience.

You can't fake wholehearted devotion. But you can choose it. You can decide today that you're done with half-measures. You can decide that God gets all of you, not just the parts that look good.

This isn't about performance. It's about love. It's about trusting that God's way is better than ours, even when it costs us something.

If you've been living in the gap between impressive action and true surrender, it's time to close that gap. It's time to stop doing what you think is right and start doing what God says is right.

That's what obedience from the heart looks like. And that's what God is calling us to.

FAQ

What does it mean to obey God "with all your heart"?

It means full surrender, not just outward compliance. It means obeying the parts of Scripture that are convenient and the parts that cost you something. It means letting God have access to every area of your life, not just the ones that look spiritual.

How can I know if I'm only partially obeying God?

Ask yourself: Are there commands in Scripture I'm ignoring because they're uncomfortable? Are there sins I'm protecting because they feel manageable? Are there areas where I'm doing what I think is right instead of what God says is right? If the answer is yes, you're likely holding back.

Can God still use me if I've been halfhearted in my obedience?

Yes: God used Jehu even in his failure. But halfhearted obedience limits your impact and keeps you stuck in patterns that lead to shame and regret. God's grace covers you, but His call is to full surrender. He wants to use you fully, not partially.

Want to go deeper? I talk about this kind of honest, grace-centered obedience all the time on the Followed by Mercy podcast . You can also check out my full story of learning to walk in God's grace, even after failure, at https://waustingardner.com/w-austin-gardner/

And if you're wrestling with the gap between knowing what's right and actually doing it, read The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are . Because real obedience starts with knowing you're already loved.

Lord, If You're Taking Requests (The Great Fly Exodus)

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 18:54:18 GMT

Learning to Rest in God’s Grace When the Small Irritations Won’t Go Away

I was reading Exodus the other day, and I stumbled across something that made me stop and have a little conversation with God.

You know the kind. The one where you're not entirely sure if you're being spiritual or just being ridiculous.

Exodus 8:30-32

> And Moses went out from Pharaoh, and intreated the LORD. And the LORD did according to the word of Moses; and he removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people; there remained not one. And Pharaoh hardened his heart at this time also, neither would he let the people go.

Did you catch that? "There remained not one."

Not ONE fly.

Pharaoh, the guy enslaving God's people, hardening his heart, being generally terrible, got every single fly removed. Complete fly elimination. Total fly freedom.

And I'm sitting here in 2026, supposedly on God's team, and I can't get rid of the ONE fly buzzing around my kitchen.

Lord, if You're taking requests, I'd like to submit a formal complaint.

Two Weeks Without Water (And More Flies Than I've Ever Seen)

Let me take you back to Arequipa, Peru. Beautiful city. Second-largest in Peru. Sits at about 7,660 feet above sea level. Known for its stunning white volcanic stone buildings.

Also known, at least in my memory, for having no running water for two solid weeks.

Two. Weeks.

No showers. No flushing toilets the normal way. No washing dishes under a nice stream of water. Just buckets. Lots and lots of buckets.

And you know what loves stagnant water and less-than-ideal sanitation conditions?

Flies.

More flies than I have ever seen in my entire life. It was horrible. I'm talking swarms. I'm talking biblical-plague-level flies. Everywhere. In the house. On the food. Buzzing around your face while you're trying to eat, sleep, think, or pray.

We tried everything. Fly paper. Rolled-up newspapers. Strategic bucket placement. Nothing worked. The flies had taken over, and we were just living in their world.

And then, after what felt like an eternity but was really just fourteen miserable days, the water came back on.

The flies eventually left.

But here's the thing: they didn't all leave at once. There was no divine Moses moment where I entreated the Lord, and suddenly every single fly vanished. They just... gradually went away. One by one. Over days.

And even now, decades later, there's always that one fly. You know the one. The fly that won't take a hint. The fly that dodges every swat. The fly that makes you question your reflexes and your sanity.

The Pharaoh Principle

So, back to Exodus. Moses prays. God answers. Every fly, gone. "There remained not one."

Pharaoh didn't deserve it. He didn't even follow through on his promise. The very next verse says he hardened his heart again. He got the miracle and still refused to let God's people go.

But Moses asked, and God did it.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "Austin, this is a ridiculous comparison. You're not Pharaoh. You're not in the middle of the ten plagues. This is just one fly."

I know. I know.

But that's exactly the point.

If God removed every single fly from Pharaoh's house, Pharaoh, who was actively rebelling against Him, why do I still have this one fly doing loop-de-loops around my coffee cup?

It's funny when you say it out loud. It's the kind of prayer request that makes you laugh at yourself even as you're praying it. "Lord, I know there are wars and famines and actual crises happening in the world, but about this fly..."

What I'm Learning (Besides Fly-Swatting Techniques)

Here's what I think God might be teaching me through my ongoing fly saga:

Not every miracle looks the same. Pharaoh got instant, complete fly removal. I got running water back and a gradual decrease in the fly population. Both were answers to prayer. Both were God's provision. They just looked different.

Sometimes the irritation is part of the process. That one fly keeps me humble. It reminds me I'm not in control of everything. It makes me laugh at myself. Maybe that's worth more than a fly-free kitchen.

God's timing isn't always about efficiency. He could remove every fly with a word. He could have given us running water back after one day instead of fourteen. But He didn't. And somehow, in ways I'm still figuring out, those two weeks without water and those flies taught me things I needed to learn.

The real issue isn't the flies. It's never really about the flies. It's about trust. It's about learning to rest in God's love even when life is uncomfortable. Even when the small irritations don't go away as quickly as we'd like.

Pharaoh got his miracle and still hardened his heart. That's the tragedy of that passage. God showed up, answered Moses' prayer completely, and Pharaoh still refused to see God's hand in it.

I don't want to be like Pharaoh. I don't want to receive God's provision and still walk away with a hard heart.

So maybe that one fly is actually a gift. A tiny, annoying, persistent gift that keeps me grateful. That keeps me laughing. That keeps me praying about the small things because God cares about everything.

The Real Exodus

You know what the real exodus is? It's not from flies. It's from the slavery of thinking God only shows up in the big, dramatic moments.

God was in Arequipa during those two weeks without running water. He was there in the fly-infested kitchen. He was there in the frustration and the humor and the prayers that felt ridiculous even as I prayed them.

And He's here now, with this one fly that won't leave.

The question isn't whether God can do miracles. He absolutely can. He removed every single fly from Pharaoh's house. He can certainly handle my kitchen.

The question is: Can I trust Him even when He doesn't?

Can I rest in His love even when the small irritations remain? Can I learn to see His hand in the gradual solutions rather than demand the instant ones?

That's the real work. That's the real exodus, from a heart that demands immediate answers to one that trusts God's timing and methods, even when they look different from what we asked for.

So yes, Lord, if You're taking requests, I'd still love for that fly to leave.

But if You're not, I'm learning to be okay with that too.

Because Your grace is enough . Even in fly-infested kitchens. Even in houses without running water. Even when the miracle looks different from what we expected.

And honestly? That's a better exodus than fly-free living ever could be.

FAQ

Does God care about small problems like flies?

Yes. Jesus said not even a sparrow falls without your Father knowing it. If He cares about sparrows, He cares about flies and running water and all the small irritations that make up our daily lives. Nothing is too small for Him.

Why doesn't God always answer prayers the way we want?

Because He's God and we're not. His ways are higher than ours, and sometimes the answer we want isn't the answer we need. The refining that happens in the waiting is often more valuable than the instant solution would have been.

What do I do when I feel like my prayers aren't being answered?

Keep praying. Keep trusting. Remember that delay isn't denial. And look for the ways God might already be answering that you haven't noticed yet. Sometimes the answer looks different than we expected.

How Will They Turn Out If They Follow My Footsteps? (1 Kings 22:52)

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 13:45:02 GMT

Breaking generational cycles and leading your family toward grace.

I remember watching my oldest daughter imitate how I walked across the room when she was three years old. She had my gestures down perfectly: the way I tilted my head, the way I put my hands in my pockets. It was adorable and terrifying at the same time.

Because in that moment, I realized: She's not just watching me when I'm trying to teach her something. She's watching me all the time.

And that question hit me hard: If she follows my exact footsteps, not what I say, but how I actually live, where will she end up?

The Sobering Reality of 1 Kings 22:52

1 Kings 22:52

> And he did evil in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the way of his father, and in the way of his mother, and in the way of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin.

This verse is about King Ahaziah. He took the throne, and he had a choice. He could have broken the cycle. He could have said, "My parents got it wrong. I'm going to do this differently."

But he didn't.

Instead, he walked in the way of his father, Ahab. He walked in the way of his mother, Jezebel. He walked in the way of Jeroboam, who had led an entire nation into idolatry generations earlier.

He inherited their sins. He reproduced their rebellion. And the result? 2 Kings 1:18 records his downfall and shame. His life ended in disgrace because he followed the wrong footsteps.

That's not just a history lesson. That's a mirror.

The Footsteps Question We Need to Ask

Here's the question I've had to ask myself more times than I can count:

If my children follow my exact footsteps: not my sermons, not my advice, but my actual day-to-day life: where will they end up?

Will they love God? Will they love the Bible? Will they love the church? Will they have strong marriages? Will they know how to confess sin and ask for forgiveness? Will they treat people with grace?

Or will they learn to perform, to hide, to fake it, to keep up appearances while their hearts grow cold?

That's the weight of example. And it's heavier than any sermon I've ever preached.

I've spent over 50 years in ministry. I've preached thousands of sermons. I've written books. I've mentored pastors. But at the end of the day, the most important message I'll ever preach is the one my family sees when I'm tired, frustrated, or disappointed.

Because children don't just listen to what we teach. They follow what we do.

The Weight of Example: What Are We Modeling?

Here's what I've learned the hard way: Our kids are not taking notes on our Sunday best. They're watching how we treat their mom on Tuesday night.

They're watching:

How we respond when we're criticized
How we handle money
How we talk about people who aren't in the room
Whether we pray when life is hard or just complain
Whether we actually read the Bible or just preach about it
Whether we admit when we're wrong
Whether grace is louder than pressure in our home

Ahaziah's parents modeled idolatry, manipulation, and pride. And he reproduced it perfectly.

What are we modeling?

I had to take an honest inventory of my own life. And it wasn't always pretty.

There were seasons where I was so focused on ministry that I neglected my marriage. There were times I was harsh with my kids because I was tired and frustrated. There were moments I acted like I had it all together when I was falling apart inside.

And my kids saw it. They saw the gap between what I preached and how I lived.

That gap? That's where faith dies in the next generation.

Do They See That Salvation Is Real in Us?

One of the most important questions I've had to wrestle with is this: Do my kids see that salvation is real in my life?

Not just positionally. Not just theologically. But practically.

Do they see me confess my sin? Do they hear me say, "I was wrong. Will you forgive me?" Do they see me run to Jesus when I mess up, or do they see me cover it up and pretend I'm fine?

Kids need to see that we need grace, too. They need to see that salvation isn't just something we preached once: it's something we live every single day.

When I survived Stage 4 cancer and then a ventilator and medically induced coma from COVID , my family didn't just see me fight physically. They saw me fight spiritually. They saw me weak. They saw me broken. And they saw me hold on to Jesus when I had nothing else to hold on to.

That wasn't the message I wanted to preach. But it was the message they needed to see.

Because if they only see strength, they'll think Christianity is for people who have it all together. But if they see weakness covered by grace, they'll know where to run when they fall apart.

Caught More Than Taught

There's an old saying: "More is caught than taught."

I used to think that was an excuse for lazy parents who didn't want to teach their kids theology. But I was wrong.

It's not an excuse. It's a reality.

You can teach your kids the Bible. You can take them to church. You can give them all the right answers. But if they don't see it lived out in your life, they won't believe it.

They'll see the gap. And they'll walk away.

I've watched it happen too many times. Pastors' kids. Missionaries' kids. Good Christian kids who grew up in church and walked away because what they saw at home didn't match what they heard on Sunday.

And it breaks my heart. Because I know it didn't have to be that way.

What Are We Passing Down?

Here's what I want you to hear: You're passing something down. The only question is what.

Ahaziah inherited his parents' idolatry. He didn't just accidentally stumble into their sin: he learned it. He watched them choose false gods over the true God. He watched them manipulate and control. And when it was his turn to lead, he did the same thing.

What are your kids learning from you?

Are they learning:

That God is good, or that religion is a burden?
Is grace real, or is performance everything?
Is marriage worth fighting for, or is it easier to just give up?
Is the Bible living and active, or is it just something we talk about on Sundays?
That church is family, or that church is just an obligation?

If you want to know what you're passing down, look at what you're living. Not what you're saying. What are you living?

Practical Steps: Making the Turn

So how do we break the cycle? How do we make sure we're leaving the right footsteps?

Here are a few things I've had to do:

1. Take an honest inventory.

Ask yourself: If my kids live exactly like I live, where will they end up? Don't sugarcoat it. Be honest.

2. Confess where you've failed.

Your kids need to see you confess your sin: not just to God, but to them. Apologize when you're wrong. Let them see your need for grace.

3. Model love for God and hatred for sin.

Don't just talk about loving God. Let them see you in the Word. Let them hear you pray. Let them watch you worship when no one's watching.

4. Treat your spouse with honor.

Your marriage is the most powerful sermon your kids will ever see. If you want them to have strong marriages, show them what one looks like.

5. Make grace louder than pressure.

Don't let your home be a place where performance is rewarded, and failure is shamed. Let your kids know they are loved: period. Not because they perform, but because they're yours.

6. Point them to Jesus, not to yourself.

You're going to fail. You're going to mess up. When you do, don't try to be the hero of the story. Point them to Jesus. He's the only perfect example.

The Outcome Matters

The outcome of Ahaziah's reign is recorded in 2 Kings 1:18 . He fell. He called on false gods. He died in shame.

His life was defined by the footsteps he followed.

And here's the thing: the outcome matters for your kids, too.

I don't want my kids to look back on their childhood and remember a dad who preached grace but lived pressure. I don't want them to remember a dad who was more concerned with his reputation than his relationship with them.

I want them to remember a dad who loved Jesus, loved their mom, and showed them what it looks like to follow hard after God: even when it's messy.

That's the legacy I want to leave. Not a perfect one. But a grace-filled one.

You Can Make the Turn Today

If you're reading this and realizing you've been leaving the wrong footsteps, I want you to know: it's not too late to make the turn.

Ahaziah didn't have to follow his parents' path. He chose to. And you can choose differently.

You can start today.

Confess where you've failed. Ask for forgiveness. And start walking in a new direction: one that leads your kids toward Jesus, not away from Him.

Because the footsteps you leave today will determine where your kids walk tomorrow.

And that's too important to get wrong.

FAQ: Following the Right Footsteps

What if I've already failed as a parent? Is it too late to change?

It's never too late. Your kids need to see you change, confess, and walk in grace. That's a more powerful testimony than perfection ever could be.

How do I model grace without being permissive?

Grace doesn't mean no boundaries. It means your kids know they are loved unconditionally, even when you have to correct them. Discipline with love, not shame.

What if my children have already walked away from the faith?

Keep praying. Keep living what you preach. And trust that God's mercy is bigger than your failures. Your example today can still make a difference tomorrow.

If this message stirred something in your heart, I'd love to hear from you. You can learn more about my story and ministry at waustingardner.com , or listen to more grace-centered teaching on the Followed by Mercy podcast . And if you need a deeper dive into living free from performance and pressure, check out The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are .

From Performance to Grace: The Journey of W. Austin Gardner

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 13:45:03 GMT

Breaking Free from Spiritual Hustle and Learning to Live Loved

I'm W. Austin Gardner . For most of my life, I believed God's love had to be earned.

I didn't say it out loud. I would have denied it if you'd asked. But deep down, I was terrified that if I didn't perform well enough, preach hard enough, serve long enough, sacrifice more, God would be disappointed in me.

That fear drove me for decades. It also nearly destroyed me.

This is the story of how I moved from the exhausting treadmill of spiritual performance to the quiet rest of God's unconditional grace. It's not a story of arrival. It's a story of being found.

The Performance Treadmill

I started ministry at 23. I was full of fire and ambition. I wanted to preach ten times a week. I wanted to start multiple churches, lead a Bible college, and distribute materials across the world. I had big dreams and a bigger work ethic.

But the ministry didn't unfold the way I expected.

I faced deep hurt. Disappointment. Setbacks that left me questioning everything. I kept going because I'd been taught: "Do not doubt in the night what God gave you in the light." That principle became my lifeline.

But it also became my cage.

I believed that if I worked harder, God would be pleased. If I served more, He'd notice. If I sacrificed enough, I'd finally feel loved.

The problem? I never did.

No matter how much I gave, it was never enough. I carried a silent, constant fear that I was failing God. That I wasn't measuring up. That somewhere, somehow, I'd lost His favor.

I didn't become legalistic because I hated grace. I became legalistic because I loved God and was afraid of losing Him.

The Breaking Point

After 28 years of pastoral ministry and 20 years as a church-planting missionary, my body gave out.

First, it was stage-four cancer. Then COVID-19 nearly took my life. I spent months in pain, fighting to breathe, wondering if I'd see another year.

And in the middle of that suffering, something broke inside me.

It wasn't my faith. It was my illusion of control.

I realized I couldn't earn my way into God's presence. I couldn't perform my way into His approval. I was too weak, too broken, too human.

And that's when I heard it.

Not audibly. But deep in my spirit, like a whisper that shattered everything I thought I knew:

"You are loved. Not because of what you do. Because of who I Am."

The Discovery of Grace

The verse that changed everything for me was John 17:23 .

John 17:23
> "I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me."

Read that again.

God loves you the same way He loves Jesus.

Not less. Not conditionally. Not based on your performance.

The same.

That truth didn't just comfort me. It undid me.

For 50 years, I'd been running on a treadmill, trying to close the gap between me and God's approval. And suddenly, I realized: there was no gap. There had never been.

God wasn't disappointed in me. He wasn't measuring my worth by my consistency. He was holding me. He had been holding me the entire time.

Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.

What Changed

When I stopped performing and started receiving, everything shifted.

I didn't stop serving. I didn't stop preaching or writing or mentoring. But the why changed.

I used to serve out of fear: fear that God would withdraw His love if I stopped.

Now I serve out of overflow, because I've been loved first, and loved people become loving people.

I wrote Pain to Praise: Living Beyond Pain, Bitterness, and Regret from that place. It's not a book about pretending pain doesn't exist. It's a book about what happens when you let God meet you in the middle of it.

I started Followed by Mercy , a ministry focused on helping people break free from performance Christianity and step into the freedom of God's unconditional love.

And I committed to telling the truth: You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held.

Living From Love

Here's what I know now that I didn't know then:

The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.

You don't have to earn God's favor. You already have it.

You don't have to prove your worth. It's already established.

You don't have to hustle for approval. God is not disappointed in you.

Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention.

I spent decades thinking I had to chase God. Now I know the truth: He's been chasing me. And His goodness and mercy aren't following me to catch me: they're following me to sustain me.

If you've been on the treadmill: if you're tired of performing and pretending: I want you to know something:

You can step off.

God's not going anywhere. He's not waiting for you to get it right. He's waiting for you to rest.

You can read more about my story and the journey that brought me here on The Official Biography of W. Austin Gardner . And if you're looking for resources to help you move from performance to peace, visit my Amazon Author Page .

If you’d like the full context of my journey from performance to grace, read My Story .

This journey isn't about perfection. It's about being loved. And that changes everything.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I'm living in performance-based Christianity?

If you feel constant pressure to do more to earn God's approval, or if rest makes you feel guilty, you're likely stuck in performance mode. The Christian life is meant to be lived from love, not for love.

Can I still serve God if I'm not performing?

Absolutely. Serving from rest is healthier and more sustainable than serving from fear. When you know you're already loved, your service becomes an overflow of gratitude instead of a desperate attempt to earn favor.

What's the first step toward grace-centered living?

Start by believing what God says about you in John 17:23: that He loves you the same way He loves Jesus. Let that truth settle in your heart. Then ask yourself: What would change if I really believed that?

Ready to go deeper? Listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast for more encouragement on living from God's unconditional love. And don't miss The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are ( it's the foundational message that changed my life.)

The Day Everything Changed (Genesis 41:14)

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 13:45:02 GMT

When God Moves Suddenly After Seasons of Silence

I've lived long enough to see it happen more times than I can count.

Someone's walking through what feels like the longest night. Years of waiting. Years of "Where is God in this?" And then: overnight: everything shifts. The phone rings. The door opens. The impossible becomes possible.

That's Joseph's story in Genesis 41:14. And it might be closer to your story than you think.

From the Dungeon to the Palace in One Day

Genesis 41:14

> "Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh."

Read that again. Slowly.

Joseph woke up that morning in a dungeon. He went to bed that night as the second most powerful man in Egypt.

One day.

Not a slow climb. Not a gradual promotion. Not a five-year plan that finally worked out.

Hastily. That's the word the Bible uses. They rushed him out. Pharaoh didn't send a polite invitation for next week. He sent for Joseph now.

Joseph had been in that prison for years. Forgotten by the cupbearer who promised to remember him. Buried alive in Potiphar's basement. And then, in a single morning, God moved.

That's how God works sometimes. Years of silence. Then a single day that changes everything.

You Don't Know What Tomorrow Brings

I learned this the hard way during my battle with Stage 4 cancer. One day, you're making plans. The next day, you're in a hospital bed, wondering if you'll see another Christmas.

Life turns on a dime.

But here's the flip side: If life can take a dark turn overnight, it can also take a bright turn just as fast.

Joseph didn't see it coming. He had no idea that morning was the morning. He woke up in chains. He went to sleep in a palace.

You're reading this today, and you have no idea what tomorrow holds. Your "suddenly" could be 24 hours away.

That job you've been praying for? The relationship you've been asking God to restore? The breakthrough you've been waiting for? It could happen tomorrow. Or next week. Or next month.

But here's what I know after 50+ years of walking with God: He's never late. And when He moves, He moves fast.

James 4:14 reminds us:

> "Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away."

We don't control the timeline. But we can trust the One who does.

The Three Hebrew Verbs of Urgency

The scholars tell us that there are three Hebrew verbs stacked together in Genesis 41:14: "sent." Called. Hastily brought out.

Pharaoh wasn't messing around. He had a problem. He needed an answer. And when he heard about Joseph, he didn't wait.

God's timing can feel slow to us. But when He moves, He doesn't waste time.

I've seen it in ministry. I've watched people pray for years over a wayward child, and then one day: boom: the kid comes home. I've watched churches stuck in the wilderness for a decade, and then one Sunday everything shifts.

You can't manufacture these moments. You can't force them. You can only be ready when they come.

And that's the question you need to ask yourself today: If the door opened tomorrow, would you be ready to walk through it?

He Shaved and Changed His Clothes

This detail matters.

Joseph didn't walk into Pharaoh's court looking like a dungeon rat. He cleaned up. He shaved. He changed his clothes.

He transitioned.

There's a spiritual principle here. You can't walk into your future wearing the clothes of your past.

Joseph didn't show up bitter. He didn't walk in rehearsing all the reasons Potiphar's wife ruined his life or his brothers destroyed his dreams. He walked in ready.

That's what I mean when I say God's grace isn't just about forgiveness: it's about transformation . God doesn't just open the door. He prepares you to walk through it.

If you're in a hard season right now, don't waste it. Let God do the internal work. Let Him strip away the bitterness, the self-pity, the "Why me?" mentality.

Because when your door opens, and it will, you need to be ready to step through it clean.

The Suddenness of God's Timing

Here's what gets me about this story.

Joseph had been waiting for thirteen years. Thirteen. Slavery. False accusations. Prison. Forgotten promises.

And then, one morning, it all flipped.

That's how God operates. He doesn't work on our schedule. He works on His. And His schedule is always perfect, even when it doesn't feel like it.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 says it this way:

> "He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end."

Beautiful in His time. Not ours.

I don't know where you are today. Maybe you're in your own dungeon. Maybe you've been waiting for years. Maybe you've given up hope that anything will ever change.

Don't.

Your "suddenly" is still on the calendar. And when it comes, you'll look back and realize every hard day was preparing you for this moment.

So What Do You Do While You Wait?

Good question. Here's what I've learned:

Stay faithful where you are. Joseph didn't stop serving in prison. He didn't sit in the corner and sulk. He interpreted dreams for the cupbearer and the baker. He stayed engaged. He stayed useful. Your current assignment matters.

Keep your heart clean. Bitterness will disqualify you faster than anything. If you walk into your breakthrough dragging resentment, you'll sabotage it. Let God deal with the people who hurt you. That's His job, not yours.

Trust God's timing. This is the hardest part. We want it now. God says, "Not yet." And the gap between "now" and "not yet" is where faith grows. Trust Him. He hasn't forgotten you.

Get ready. Don't wait until the door opens to prepare. Get ready now. Spiritually. Emotionally. Practically. When the call comes, you want to be able to move.

A Few Questions to Think About

If your breakthrough came tomorrow, would you be spiritually ready for it?
What "dungeon clothes" (bitterness, self-pity, fear) do you need to take off today?
Are you staying faithful in your current assignment, even though it's hard?
Do you believe God's timing is perfect, or are you trying to force your own schedule?

A Short Closing Prayer

Father, I don't know when my "suddenly" is coming. But I trust You. Help me to stay faithful where I am. Help me to keep my heart clean. Help me to be ready when the door opens. I believe You're working, even when I can't see it. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Let's Stay Connected

If this message encouraged you today, I'd love to walk with you on this journey. Check out more articles and resources at waustingardner.com , or listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast, where we dive deeper into God's grace and how He's always after you: not to punish you, but to love you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Genesis 41:14 teach us about God's timing?

Genesis 41:14 shows us that God can change everything in a single day. Joseph went from the dungeon to the palace in one morning. God's timing may feel slow, but when He moves, He moves suddenly and decisively.

How long was Joseph in prison before Pharaoh called for him?

Joseph spent approximately 13 years in slavery and prison before Pharaoh summoned him. He was sold into slavery at 17 and stood before Pharaoh at 30. Those years weren't wasted: they were preparation.

What does it mean that Joseph "shaved himself and changed his raiment"?

Joseph's physical preparation (shaving and changing clothes) symbolizes spiritual readiness. He didn't walk into his future wearing the bitterness and brokenness of his past. He cleaned up and stepped into what God had for him. It's a picture of leaving the past behind and embracing the new thing God is doing.

Manasseh: The Choice to Forget (Genesis 41:51)

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:00:11 GMT

Choosing Freedom Over Bitterness in the Middle of Success

Joseph stood in the palace holding his firstborn son.

Thirteen years earlier, he'd been in a pit. Then chains. Then prison. Falsely accused. Forgotten.

Now he was second-in-command of Egypt with a wife, a child, and a future he never saw coming.

And when they asked what he wanted to name the boy, Joseph said something that tells us everything about how he got free from the other prison, the one inside his head.

He named him Manasseh.

Genesis 41:51

> "And Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: For God, said he, hath made me forget all my toil, and all my father's house."

Manasseh means "causing to forget."

Joseph didn't name his son after his victory. He didn't name him after his promotion or his power. He named him after what God did inside him; God made him forget.

Not erase. Not delete. Not pretend it didn't happen.

But forget in the sense that it no longer controlled him.

What Joseph Actually Forgot

Here's what I want you to see: Joseph didn't lose his memory.

He remembered his brothers. He remembered the pit. He remembered Potiphar's wife, the false accusation, the dungeon, and the years of waiting. He remembered it all when his brothers showed up in Genesis 42. He wept when he saw Benjamin. He asked about his father.

So what did he forget?

He forgot the power those memories had over him.

He stopped letting yesterday steal today. He stopped nursing the wound. He stopped rehearsing the betrayal. He stopped defining himself by what they did to him.

That's the kind of forgetting God does in us when we let Him.

It's not amnesia. It's freedom.

Joseph could have spent his entire life in Egypt replaying the moment his brothers threw him in that pit. He could have spent every dinner with his wife thinking about what he lost. He could have held his son and thought, "My father should be here. My brothers stole this from me."

But he didn't.

He named his son Manasseh, because God helped him let it go.

The Choice to Forget

I need you to hear this: forgetting is a choice.

You can't necessarily delete the memory, but you can choose to forget its power over you.

I've spent over 50 years in ministry. I've seen people get free from prison, addiction, abuse, betrayal, every kind of pain you can imagine. And I've also seen people stay locked up long after the cell door opened.

The difference? The ones who got free made a choice.

They chose to stop letting bitterness write the story. They chose to take their thoughts captive instead of letting their thoughts take them captive.

2 Corinthians 10:5

> "Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ."

Paul's telling us that our mind is a battlefield. And if we don't fight for it, bitterness will take it over.

Joseph fought for his mind. Every time the memory came back, he replaced it with the truth: God had a purpose. God was with me. God is making something good out of this.

He didn't deny the pain. He reframed it.

Don't Sacrifice Today Because You're Stuck in Yesterday

Here's what breaks my heart: I've watched too many people sacrifice the blessings God has given them today because they're still living in the prison of yesterday.

They have a spouse who loves them, but they can't enjoy it because they're still angry with the one who left.

They've got kids who need them, but they're too distracted by bitterness to be present.

They've got a church that needs their gifts, but they're too busy replaying old wounds to serve.

Joseph could have done that. He had every reason to be bitter. His brothers sold him. Potiphar's wife lied about him. The cupbearer forgot him.

But instead of letting those things define him, he let God redefine him.

And when his son was born, he didn't name him Revenge, Vindication, or Justice. He named him Manasseh, "God made me forget."

That's a man who chose freedom.

And that same choice is in front of you today.

You can hold onto the hurt, or you can hold onto the hope. You can nurse the wound, or you can let God heal it. You can stay locked in the prison of bitterness, or you can walk out into the life God has waiting for you.

The door is open. But you have to choose to walk through it.

Taking Thoughts Captive: Practical Steps

Let me give you some practical steps for choosing to forget.

1. Acknowledge the memory.

Don't pretend it didn't happen. Don't spiritualize it away. Say it out loud: "This happened. It hurt. It was wrong."

2. Refuse to rehearse it.

Every time your mind starts replaying the scene, stop it. Literally say out loud, "No. I'm not going there again."

3. Replace the lie with the truth.

Bitterness always comes with a lie: "God doesn't care. This was meaningless. I'll never recover." Replace it with the truth: "God was with me. God has a purpose. God is making something good out of this."

4. Focus on what God is doing now.

Joseph didn't sit around thinking about what his brothers took from him. He focused on what God gave him: a wife, a son, a future.

What has God given you today? Focus on that.

5. Pray for the ones who hurt you. I know this one's hard. But Jesus said it, and He meant it. You can't stay bitter toward someone you're praying for. Try it. You'll see.

If you've been carrying wasted pain and need help letting go, I've written more about this here .

Questions for Reflection

What memory are you still giving power to?

What past hurt is stealing your present joy?

What lie are you believing?

Bitterness always comes with a lie about God, yourself, or your future. What's the lie you've been rehearsing?

What blessing are you missing because you're stuck in yesterday?

Who or what has God given you today that you can't enjoy because you're still locked in the past?

What would it look like for you to "name your son Manasseh"?

What would it look like for you to let God help you forget the power of that pain?

A Prayer

Father, I'm tired of being locked up. I'm tired of letting yesterday steal today. I don't want to erase the memory, but I do want to be free from its power. Help me take my thoughts captive. Help me replace the lies with Your truth. Help me see what You're doing now instead of what they did then. Make me like Joseph, free, fruitful, and focused on what You've given me. In Jesus' name, amen.

Moving Forward

Listen: I know this isn't easy. I survived Stage 4 cancer and COVID. I've had my share of betrayals and disappointments in 50 years of ministry. I've been there.

But I've also seen what happens when you let God help you forget. I've watched Him take the most painful chapters and turn them into the most fruitful ones.

He did it for Joseph. He did it for me. And He'll do it for you.

The prison door is open. Walk out.

God's not asking you to pretend it didn't happen. He's asking you to stop letting it define you. He's asking you to name your next season, Manasseh, and let Him make you forget.

Because God isn't just healing your past. He's building your future. And He needs you free to receive it.

If you're ready to take the big leap of faith and start living from God's unconditional love instead of your painful past, start here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Does "forgetting" mean I have to pretend the hurt never happened?

No. Biblical forgetting isn't denial or amnesia. It's choosing to release the power that memory has over you. Joseph remembered everything, but he stopped letting it control his present and future.

What if I've tried to forgive, but the bitterness keeps coming back?

That's normal. Forgiveness isn't a one-time event; it's a daily choice. Every time the memory resurfaces, you take that thought captive again and replace it with God's truth. It gets easier with practice.

How do I know if I'm truly free from bitterness?

You'll know you're free when you can think about the person or situation without feeling that familiar tightness in your chest. You'll know you're free when you can thank God for what He's doing now instead of obsessing over what they did then. Freedom feels like lightness, not heaviness.

Want more encouragement on walking in grace and freedom? Check out my podcast, Fo llowed by Me rcy, and subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly teaching.

The 25-Year Shadow: When Sin Finds You Out (Genesis 42)

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 13:45:18 GMT

The Long Shadow of Hidden Sin and the Freedom Found in Confession

I've been thinking a lot about Joseph's brothers lately.

Twenty-five years had passed since they threw their younger brother into a pit and sold him to slave traders. Twenty-five years of raising their own families, working their fields, living their lives. They probably thought they'd gotten away with it. Maybe they'd even convinced themselves it wasn't that bad. Joseph was probably fine somewhere. Life moved on.

Then came the famine. And everything they'd buried came roaring back.

When the Past Shows Up Uninvited

Genesis 42:21
> "And they said one to another, We are verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us."

The moment these grown men, fathers now, with gray in their beards, hit trouble in Egypt, their minds went straight back to that pit. To Joseph's face. To his screams. To what they'd done.

That's what unconfessed sin does. It waits.

The Bible says it plain in Numbers 32:23: "Be sure your sin will find you out." Not might. Will. It's not a threat. It's just how things work. Sin has a way of circling back, even decades later, even when you think you've moved past it.

I've seen it in my own life. I've seen it in ministry. The thing you swept under the rug twenty years ago? It's still there. And one day, when you least expect it, you'll trip over it.

The Shadow That Follows the Whole Family

Here's what breaks my heart about Genesis 42: the sin didn't just hurt Joseph. It poisoned the whole family for a generation.

Jacob became an overprotective, fearful father. He wouldn't let Benjamin go to Egypt because he'd already "lost" one son. The brothers couldn't be honest with their dad. Simeon got left in an Egyptian jail. The family was fractured, and everyone was paying the price for a sin committed 25 years earlier.

Sin doesn't stay contained. It spreads. It seeps into your marriage, your kids, your friendships, your peace of mind. You think you're hiding it, but everyone around you feels the weight of it.

Joseph's brothers thought they'd buried their guilt in the sand of that caravan road. But it followed them home. It sat at their dinner tables. It shaped how they raised their kids. It kept them from being honest with the people they loved most.

That's the shadow. And it's long.

God Brings Sin to Light: But Not to Crush You

Now here's the part I need you to hear: God didn't orchestrate this whole Egypt situation to destroy Joseph's brothers. He brought their sin to the surface to lead them to repentance.

Look at Genesis 42:18. Joseph says, "This do, and live; for I fear God." Even in his test, even in his rough speech, Joseph pointed them back to God. He wasn't interested in revenge. He wanted restoration.

God does the same with us. When He brings our sin before us: when the past catches up: it's not to crush us. It's to free us. He wants us to own it, confess it, and let Him heal it.

Psalm 32:5
> "I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin."

The brothers were finally saying out loud what they'd been carrying for 25 years: "We are guilty." And that confession, as painful as it was, was the first step toward freedom.

I don't know what you're carrying today. Maybe it's something from last year. Maybe it's something from 20 years ago. But I do know this: God already knows. And He's not waiting to punish you. He's waiting to forgive you.

That's the heart of the gospel of grace . God is not disappointed in you. He's not measuring your worth by your worst moment. He's offering you a way out of the shadow.

The Weight You Don't Have to Carry Anymore

Joseph's brothers carried their guilt for 25 years. They didn't have to. They could have confessed it to God and to each other long before Egypt. They could have asked Jacob for forgiveness. They could have chosen honesty over hiding.

But they didn't. And the weight of it nearly destroyed them.

You don't have to live like that. You really don't.

1 John 1:9
> "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

God is not interested in keeping you trapped in your past. He's interested in setting you free. And that starts with bringing it into the light. Not to shame you. Not to expose you. But to heal you.

A Few Questions to Sit With

Is there something you've been carrying for years that you've never confessed to God or to anyone else?
How is that unconfessed sin affecting the people around you: your spouse, your kids, your church?
What would it look like to bring it into the light today?

A Prayer

Father, I don't want to carry this anymore. You already know what I've done, and You already know how heavy it is. I confess it now: not because You're forcing me, but because I want to be free. Forgive me. Cleanse me. Help me walk in the light. In Jesus' name, amen.

FAQ

Does God bring up past sins to punish me?

No. God brings sin to light to lead you to repentance and restoration, not to crush you. His goal is always healing and freedom.

What if I've already confessed my sin but still feel guilty?

Guilt that lingers after confession is often shame, not conviction. God forgives fully. Sometimes we need to forgive ourselves and accept the grace He's already given.

How do I confess sin that affects other people?

Start with God. Then, if the sin hurt someone else, go to them and make it right. Be honest, take responsibility, and ask for forgiveness without making excuses.

If this message stirred something in you, I'd love for you to explore more at waustingardner.com . And if you're looking for honest, grace-centered conversations about faith, check out the Followed by Mercy podcast .

You don't have to stay in the shadows. God's already made a way out.

The Exhaustion of Hiding (and the Freedom of Coming Into the Light)

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 13:15:00 GMT

How to Avoid Burnout, Build Trust, and Lead with Mercy

I’ve been in ministry for over fifty years, and I’ll tell you a secret: some of the most exhausted people I’ve ever met aren’t tired from working too hard. They are exhausted from pretending too hard.

How much of your energy this week went into hiding the "real" you? The tired you? The doubting you? The version of you that isn't sure you're doing any of this right?

If that’s you today, I want you to know something: You can stop now.

The Weight of the Mask

Hiding takes more energy than we realize. You wake up, put on the face, choose your words carefully, and edit your prayers to sound more "spiritual." By the end of the day, you're bone-tired—not from what you did, but from what you concealed.

We hide because we want connection. We’re afraid that if people saw the real us, they’d leave. So we cover up and perform. But here is the painful irony: hiding is the very thing that prevents the connection we are desperate for.

The One You Can’t Hide From

We spend all this energy hiding from people, but deep down, we are trying to hide from God. We avoid certain prayers because we’re terrified that if He gets too close, He’ll see that thing—the failure, the doubt, or the recurring sin.

But friend, look at Psalm 139:1–4. He already knows. Every thought, every word, every secret corner. He knows, and He hasn't left. That’s not a threat; it’s an invitation.

The Big Leap of Faith

The hardest leap of faith isn't believing God exists or that Jesus rose from the dead. The hardest leap

is believing that God loves you exactly as you are.

Not the version of you that has it all together. The real you. The mess. Romans 5:8 says God loved us while we were yet sinners. Not after we fixed ourselves. He looked at the wreck and said, "I want you."

Coming Into the Light

Coming into the light isn't about announcing your struggles to the world. It means you stop pretending with God. You stop the rehearsed prayers and polished words.

Walking in the light (1 John 1:7) isn't about being perfect; it's about being honest. That is where healing happens. That is where the exhaustion finally lifts.

Stop Carrying the Load Alone

If you're tired of hiding, let today be different. You don't have to wait until you're worthy. Just come.

For more resources on leading from a place of honesty and grace, visit the W. Austin Gardner Hub . You can also listen to more on this topic on the Followed by Mercy podcast .

7 Mistakes in Church Leadership (and How to Fix Them) | W. Austin Gardner

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 13:45:00 GMT

How to Lead Without Burning Out or Breaking Your People

After more than fifty years in ministry, I've made just about every leadership mistake in the book. If there's one thing I've learned, it's this: the best leaders aren't the ones who never fail; they're the ones who learn from their failures and keep walking in grace.

Whether you are a seasoned pastor or just stepping into Christian leadership development , these common traps can sabotage your ministry if you aren't careful. Here are seven mistakes to watch for and how to fix them.

1. Trying to Do It All Alone

Leadership in the church isn't a solo act. Moses almost burned out trying it before Jethro told him, "This thing is too heavy for thee" (Exodus 18).

The Fix: Delegate and disciple. Trust others with the weight.

2. Neglecting Your Own Prayer Life

You can be so busy doing things for God that you forget to spend time with God.

The Fix: Protect your prayer time like your life depends on it. Your ministry will never rise above your intimacy with the Father.

3. Leading from Performance, Not Reliance

Charisma and experience are great, but they are no substitute for the Holy Spirit.

The Fix: Surrender your agenda every morning. Your sufficiency is of God, not your own skills (2 Corinthians 3:5).

4. Losing the Heart of a Servant

The world cares about titles and platforms; Jesus cares about towels and people.

The Fix: Ask yourself, "Am I serving, or am I being served?" The heart of a shepherd is a servant's heart.

5. Moving Too Fast Through Change

Vision is good, but people aren't microwaves. If you run over them, the change won't stick.

The Fix: Communicate the why before the what. Give people time to catch the vision.

6. Operating in Secrecy

Closed-door decisions breed suspicion and division.

The Fix: Transparency builds trust. Walk in the light, communicate clearly, and involve your team.

7. Forgetting That Mercy Leads

When you lead from fear or pressure, you crush people. When you lead from mercy, everything changes.

The Fix: Lead the way you've been led: with patience, kindness, and relentless grace.

Ready to Lead with Grace?

Your people don't need a perfect leader; they need one who points them to a perfect Savior. If you're looking for more pastoral coaching or resources on ministry leadership training , join us at the W. Austin Gardner Hub for deep dives into these topics.

You can also hear more about these leadership lessons on the Followed by Mercy podcast . Keep walking, keep learning, and keep leaning into grace.

What’s in Your Heart? Why Your Secret Desires Matter | W. Austin Gardner

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 13:45:01 GMT

How God Weighs Your Motives Even When He Says No

Here is a truth that has gripped me throughout 50 years of ministry: God weighs what is in your heart, not just what is in your hands.

You can lead a large church, serve on the mission field, or build massive programs. But if your heart is chasing approval or nursing selfish ambition, God sees it. Conversely, He also sees the dreams you never got to fulfill and the sacrifices no one else noticed. And sometimes, He is deeply pleased with your desires even when He doesn’t let you carry them out.

The Temple David Never Built

In 1 Kings 8:17-19, Solomon is dedicating the temple. He pauses to honor his father, David—the man who never got to build it. David wanted to. He gathered the materials and made the plans. But God said no. Yet, God said something remarkable: “Thou didst well that it was in thine heart.”

God was pleased with David’s desire, even though he didn’t allow David to fulfill it.

The Battle is in Your Mind

The real battle of the Christian life is fought in the hidden places of the heart. It’s fought in what you allow to consume your mind when no one is watching. Do you spend your mental energy planning how to honor God? Or are you consumed with how to get ahead or protect your reputation?

I’ve had to wrestle with this myself. I’ve prayed for church growth while secretly wanting the praise of men. That’s an ugly admission, but it’s true. God knows when our desires are wrapped around ourselves instead of Him.

You Might Never Be "Big," and That’s Okay

You don’t have to be famous to please God. You might never preach to thousands or write a bestseller. God is not impressed by the size of your platform; He is moved by the posture of your heart. If you spend your life thinking God-honoring thoughts and desiring His glory above your own, you please Him—even if no one ever knows your name.

David wanted to build the temple. God said no. But God was still pleased. If your desire is rooted in love for Him and not love for recognition, He is pleased.

Check Your Motives

I challenge you today: not to do more, but to think differently. Fill your mind with thoughts of God’s goodness. Dream about how His name can be lifted up, even if yours never is.

You can find more resources on biblical leadership and finding rest in God's grace at waustingardner.com . I also invite you to listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast for deeper dives into these topics.

Don't Be a Laban: A Biblical Blueprint for Fair Leadership

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:14:52 GMT

Why Fair Wages and Honest Words Reflect the Heart of God

If you've ever worked for someone who changed the rules midstream, you know the sting of Laban's leadership.

Genesis 29–31 gives us one of the Bible's clearest portraits of a manipulative boss. Laban promised Jacob one thing and delivered another. He changed Jacob's wages ten times. He exploited Jacob's loyalty for twenty years. And when Jacob finally had enough, Laban's own daughters agreed their father was despicable.

Jacob said it plainly: "Your father has cheated me and changed my wages ten times" (Genesis 31:7). The Hebrew word chalaph means to swap out, to substitute, to alter what was promised. This wasn't a renegotiation. It was manipulation.

And God hated it.

If you lead people: whether in ministry, business, or your home: this story matters. Because how you treat those who work with you reveals what you believe about God.

Laban's Leadership Playbook (And Why It Fails)

Laban's approach was simple: control, manipulate, and extract value.

He promised Rachel, but gave Leah. He agreed on wages but kept changing them. He wanted Jacob around because Jacob made him money, not because he valued Jacob as a person. When Jacob's usefulness seemed to fade, Laban's demeanor turned cold.

Sound familiar?

Laban treated Jacob like a productivity unit. Not an image-bearer. Not a covenant partner. Just a tool.

And that's the heart of bad leadership: seeing people as means to your ends.

What God Says About Wages and Workers

The Law of Moses made it crystal clear. God doesn't tolerate Laban-style leadership.

Deuteronomy 24:14–15

> "Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy... At his day thou shalt give him his hire, neither shall the sun go down upon it; for he is poor, and setteth his heart upon it: lest he cry against thee unto the LORD, and it be sin unto thee."

The word oppress in Hebrew is ashaq: to defraud, to exploit, to extort. Withholding or manipulating wages isn't just bad business. It's oppression.

Leviticus 19:13

> "The wages of him that is hired shall not abide with thee all night until the morning."

Why the urgency? Because the worker depends on that pay. Delayed wages can endanger survival. God identifies Himself with the vulnerable worker.

This isn't just Old Testament law. The prophets echoed it. Malachi listed wage oppression right alongside sorcery and adultery (Malachi 3:5). Jeremiah pronounced woe on anyone who makes someone serve for nothing (Jeremiah 22:13).

God takes this seriously.

Jesus and the Worth of the Worker

Jesus said it plainly:

Luke 10:7

> "The labourer is worthy of his hire."

The Greek word axios means worthy, deserving, fitting. Compensation isn't charity. It's a moral obligation.

Paul carried this into the early church. Writing to masters, he said:

Colossians 4:1

> "Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven."

Just (Greek: dikaiosynē) means righteous: what is right before God. Equal (Greek: isotēs) means equity, fairness, balance.

You answer to a Master, too. And He's watching how you treat the people under your care.

The Deeper Truth: God Is the Source, Not the Employer

Here's where the story gets even more powerful.

Jacob ultimately did not prosper because Laban was fair. Jacob prospered because God was faithful.

Genesis 31:9

> "God hath taken away the cattle of your father, and given them to me."

Laban manipulated. God overruled.

This is where leadership shifts from fear to trust. From scarcity to covenant abundance.

Many leaders operate like Laban because they're afraid. They fear losing control. They fear someone else getting ahead. They live in scarcity.

But God's economy doesn't run on scarcity. It runs on covenant love.

When you lead from union with Christ, you don't exploit: you overflow. You don't hoard: you release. You don't manipulate: you honor.

Because you know your source isn't people. It's God.

From Slavery to Sonship

There's another shift happening in this story.

Jacob started working for Laban out of survival. He was on the run. He had nothing. He worked from fear.

But over twenty years, Jacob's identity changed. He moved from slave thinking to son thinking.

Slavery says: I have to earn my way.

Sonship says: I'm already loved, and blessing flows from that.

Laban never made that shift. He stayed stuck in scarcity. And it cost him his daughters, his wealth, and his relationship with Jacob.

If you lead people, the question isn't just Are you being fair?

The question is Who are you becoming?

Are you operating from fear or trust? From scarcity or abundance? From law or love?

You can follow all the rules and still miss the heart of God. Because righteous leadership isn't rule-keeping. It's sharing in God's generous nature.

What This Looks Like Today

Here's how this plays out in modern leadership:

1. No manipulative contracts

Don't change terms unfairly. Don't exploit legal loopholes. Honor your word.

2. Pay promptly and fairly

Delay can be oppression. Compensation reflects value and dignity.

3. Treat people as image-bearers

They're not productivity units. They're not tools. They reflect God.

4. Transparency and integrity

No hidden agendas. No bait-and-switch. Be honest from day one.

5. Remember divine accountability

You answer to God. He sides with the vulnerable. And He's watching.

This isn't about following rules to avoid judgment. It's about leading from the overflow of who you are in Christ.

When you know you're loved unconditionally, you stop exploiting people and start releasing them into blessing.

The Heart Shift That Changes Everything

The biggest leadership lesson from Laban and Jacob isn't Don't be like Laban.

It's this: Know who your Source is.

Laban thought Jacob was his source. So he manipulated, controlled, and exploited.

Jacob learned God was his source. So he could walk away, trust God, and prosper anyway.

If you're leading from fear, you'll become a Laban.

If you lead with trust, you'll be a blessing.

And here's the grace in all of this: even when people fail you, God doesn't. Even when employers manipulate you, God overrules.

Your provision doesn't ultimately come from people. It flows from covenant love.

That's the kind of leadership the world needs. Not perfect. Not flawless. But rooted in the goodness of a God who sides with the oppressed and blesses those who honor His image in others.

Don't be a Laban. Be someone who leads from sonship, not slavery. From trust, not fear. From the overflow of being deeply loved.

If you're wrestling with what fair, grace-centered leadership looks like in your context: whether in business, ministry, or your family: I'd love to walk with you. Check out more at waustingardner.com or explore leadership resources rooted in biblical wisdom at my Amazon author page .

And if you're looking for a deeper dive into living loved and leading well, start here: The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are .

FAQ: Biblical Leadership and Fair Treatment

What does the Bible say about changing someone's wages unfairly?

Scripture calls it oppression. Deuteronomy 24:14–15 commands employers not to exploit workers or withhold wages. Malachi 3:5 warns that God Himself will witness against those who defraud employees. Changing wages unfairly violates covenant integrity.

How should Christian leaders treat their employees today?

With justice, fairness, and dignity. Colossians 4:1 tells masters to give what is just and equal, remembering they answer to God. This means honoring agreements, paying promptly, and treating people as image-bearers: not productivity tools.

What can I do if I'm being treated unfairly at work?

Remember that God is your ultimate Source, not your employer. Trust Him to defend and provide for you, just as He did for Jacob. Seek wise counsel, document injustice if needed, and know that God sides with the oppressed. Your provision flows from covenant love, not human fairness.

Solomon's Surprise: A Heart for Every Nation

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:23:06 GMT

Discovering God’s global heart in Solomon’s temple prayer.

1 Kings 8:43 Hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place, and do according to all that the stranger calleth to thee for: that all people of the earth may know thy name, to fear thee, as do thy people Israel; and that they may know that this house, which I have builded, is called by thy name.

When Solomon dedicated the temple in Jerusalem, he did something that would have shocked most of his contemporaries. As W. Austin Gardner often reminds leaders, God’s heart has always been bigger than our circles. Solomon prayed for strangers. He prayed for foreigners. He prayed for people who didn't look like him, talk like him, or worship like him.

He asked God to answer their prayers, too.

That's not what you'd expect from an Old Testament king. But Solomon understood something that took the rest of Israel centuries to figure out: God's heart was always bigger than one nation.

The Temple Wasn't Supposed to Be Exclusive

Most people think of the Old Testament as "Jews only." But that's not what Solomon saw when he looked at the temple. He saw a place where people from every corner of the earth could call on the name of the God of heaven.

"That all people of the earth may know thy name."

Not just Israel. Not just the chosen people. All people.

Solomon didn't see the temple as a country club with a membership card. He saw it as a lighthouse. A beacon. A place where anyone, Jew or stranger, could find the living God.

This wasn't a new idea. God told Abraham way back in Genesis that through his seed, all the nations of the earth would be blessed. Solomon was just reminding God and reminding Israel that the promise was still in play.

The stranger wasn't an afterthought. The stranger was always part of the plan.

Solomon Was Concerned About World Evangelism

Here's what gets me: Solomon lived 3,000 years ago, and he was more concerned about reaching the nations than most churches are today.

He wanted the world to be able to call on God. He didn't want the temple to be a place where only Jews could pray. He asked God to hear the stranger's prayer.

That's world evangelism. That's missions. That's a heart that looks beyond borders and bloodlines and sees people who need to know the name of the Lord.

I spent 20 years in Peru as a missionary. I've seen what happens when the gospel crosses borders. I've watched Peruvian pastors pray with the same power as American preachers. I've seen God answer prayers in Spanish just as fast as He answers them in English.

God doesn't have favorites. He has a family. And the family was always supposed to include everyone.

The Wisdom That Drew the Nations

Solomon's wisdom wasn't just for Israel. The Bible says kings from all nations sent ambassadors to listen to his counsel. People traveled from far and near to hear him speak. His reputation extended well beyond Israel's borders.

God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure: "like the sand on the seashore." His wisdom surpassed the wisdom of Egypt and the wisdom of the East. He composed 3,000 proverbs and 1,005 songs. He knew about plants, animals, birds, reptiles, and fish.

But here's the thing: Solomon's wisdom wasn't meant to make Israel look good. It was meant to make God look good. It was meant to draw the nations to the God of Israel.

When people came to Solomon's court, they weren't just impressed by his intellect. They were

encountering the God who gave him that intellect. They were seeing what happens when a nation walks in covenant with the living God.

That's the point of blessing. That's the point of wisdom. That's the point of prosperity. Not so we can hoard it, but so we can point others to the source.

What This Means for Us

If Solomon, an Old Testament king under the law, was concerned about the stranger, how much more should we be?

We live on the other side of the cross. We've seen the fullness of God's mercy in Jesus. We know that the gospel is for every tribe, tongue, and nation. We know that Jesus told us to go into all the world.

And yet, we still act like the gospel is ours to keep.

We build our little church fortresses. We stay comfortable in our own communities. We give to missions once a year and call it good. We don't pray for the stranger. We don't ask God to bring the nations to know His name.

Solomon would be embarrassed.

Here's the question: How concerned are you that all people be able to call on His name?

Not just the people in your pew. Not just the people who look like you or vote like you. All people.

The world is full of strangers who need to know the God of heaven. They need to know His name. They need to know He hears them. They need to know the house of God is open to them.

Are you praying for them? Are you giving for them? Are you going to them?

Or are you treating the gospel like it's your private club?

The Heart Behind the Prayer

When I read Solomon's prayer, I see a man who understood grace before grace was fully revealed. He understood that God's mercy was never meant to stop at Israel's borders.

Mercy follows us. All of us. Jew and Gentile. Insider and outsider. The religious and the rebel.

That's the message of The Big Leap of Faith : God's love was never limited to one group. It was always meant to reach every nation. It was always meant to be big enough for the stranger.

If you've ever felt like an outsider, Solomon's prayer is for you. If you've ever wondered if God hears people like you, Solomon's prayer is for you.

God hears the stranger. He always has.

A Call to Action

Ready to Go Deeper? Explore Books by W. Austin Gardner

If this stirred something in you, don’t let it fade. Keep walking with the Lord, and let faith grow feet through stories of forgiveness, healing, and restoration.

Browse W. Austin Gardner ’s books here: https://amazon.com/author/austin-gardner

Solomon's heart should challenge us. It should convict us. It should move us to action.

Pray for the nations. Ask God to bring people from every corner of the earth to know His name. Pray for the stranger. Pray for the immigrant. Pray for the refugee. Pray for the person who doesn't look like you.

Give to missions. Support the work of people who are taking the gospel across borders. Don't just give once a year. Make it a lifestyle. Make it a priority.

Go. Maybe God is calling you to go yourself. Maybe it's short-term. Maybe it's long-term. Maybe it's across the ocean or across the street. But go. Don't let the gospel stay in your comfortable little corner.

The world is waiting. The stranger is waiting. And God is still listening to the prayers of those who will ask Him to make His name known to all people of the earth.

You can learn more and stay connected at waustingardner.com , or listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast , where we talk about God's relentless grace for every person, every nation, every heart.

FAQ

Did Solomon really care about non-Jews?

Yes. His prayer at the temple dedication specifically asked God to hear the prayers of strangers:

foreigners who came to the temple. Solomon wanted all nations to know God's name, not just Israel.

What does this mean for missions today?

It means we should have the same heart Solomon had. We should pray for the nations, give to the work of missions, and be willing to go where God sends us. The gospel was never meant to be hoarded: it was meant to be shared.

How can I develop a heart for the world?

Start by praying. Ask God to break your heart for the things that break His. Read missionary biographies. Support missions work financially. And ask God if He's calling you to go yourself: whether that's across the ocean or across your own neighborhood.

Don’t Tell It: Why We Shouldn’t Give Satan Free Advertising

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 05:00:15 GMT

Biblical wisdom on gossip, grace, and restoring the fallen

I originally wrote this back in 2009 , and the message hasn’t changed: don’t give the lost world a reason to rejoice when God’s people fall.

2 Samuel 1:20 Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon; lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice, lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph.

Saul and Jonathan have just been killed. A man has the gall to come and brag to David about how God’s man has fallen. David’s response is to put the man to death and to say what you find in this verse.

David did not want the lost world to know about how God’s man had fallen. He did not want it published worldwide and certainly did not want the lost people to rejoice over how God’s man had fallen.

When Saul Fell, the Enemy Published It

When Saul was killed, they had already immediately gone running to the house of their idols, their false gods, to publish the news, to praise their false gods, to rejoice at Satan’s victory.

1 Samuel 31:9 And they cut off his head, and stripped off his armour, and sent into the land of the Philistines round about, to publish it in the house of their idols, and among the people.

That’s what the enemy always does. He turns a fall into a headline. He turns pain into propaganda.

Why We Should Stop Repeating Sin-Stained Stories

I often marvel at how we, born-again believers, rejoice to tell the sin-stained stories of our brothers in Christ. We like to look like we know the latest, are superior to the fallen, and who knows what else. David would say to us, keep this quiet, do not publish it in the plazas of the world, do not give more advertising material to Satan.

Here’s the simple line I want you to remember: If you’re not part of the solution, don’t become part of the spreading it.

David Refused to Be the Judge, Jury, and Press Corps

Saul had been his enemy, yet he still recognized him as God’s man and would not touch him or harm him. Saul was wrong in what he was doing, and David and Saul both knew that, yet David would not be part of destroying him, and especially not in the world’s eyes.

David said repeatedly that God would take care of disciplining His man. David would not become the judge, jury, and press corps.

Deal With Sin in the Church, Not Through Gossip

Sin is to be dealt with in the church. If a brother falls into sin, then God tells us how to go to him, deal with him, restore him, etc. However, it is abundantly clear that church gossip is not part of that program.

We do not want to give cause for the world to blaspheme against God. So, unless you are part of the solution, why not keep your mouth shut? It would seem that our attitude is that if we are not part of the solution, we are part of spreading it.

The forgiven are to forgive, and the redeemed should not spread to the lost world the failures of God’s men.

If you need a steady place to stand again in the grace of God, revisit The Big Leap of Faith .

Want more encouragement like this?

Listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com
Fin d more articles on the hub at https://waustingardner.com/blog/ and leadership encouragement at https://www.alignmentministries.com/from-austins-pen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should we ever address sin in the church?

Yes. Scripture gives a clear pathway for correction and restoration within the body of Christ. The goal is healing, not humiliation.

What if someone’s failure is already public?

Even if it’s public, you don’t have to become a distributor. Pray, stay gracious, and refuse to add fuel to the fire.

How can I break the habit of gossip?

Pause before you speak and ask, “Am I helping restoration—or just spreading pain?” Replace the impulse to talk with the choice to pray.

From Pit to Palace: Your New Identity as a Kingly Priest

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 13:30:01 GMT

From Pit to Palace: Your New Identity as a Kingly Priest

You've probably spent a lot of your Christian life thinking of yourself as a sinner trying to be better. Maybe you wake up every day hoping today will be the day you finally get it right. You pray harder. You read more. You serve more. And yet, there's this nagging feeling that God is still waiting for you to shape up.

But here's the truth that will shake you loose from that trap: You're not a sinner trying to be better. You're already a king and a priest.

Revelation 1:6

> "And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."

Notice that word? Hath made. Not "will make." Not "might make if you try hard enough." He hath made us. It's already done. The verdict is in. Your identity is settled.

The Completed Act: It's Already Done

When John wrote Revelation 1:6, he used what scholars call the aorist tense in Greek. That's a fancy way of saying it's a completed action. Jesus didn't start the process and leave you to finish it. He didn't get you halfway there and say, "Now you take it from here."

He finished it.

You are not becoming a king and priest. You are one. Right now. Today. In this moment, with all your mess and all your questions, you are royalty in God's Kingdom and a priest before His throne.

This isn't something you earn. It's something you inherit. And the inheritance papers have already been signed in blood, His blood.

1 Peter 2:9

> "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light."

You are chosen. You are royal. You are holy. Not because of what you've done, but because of what He did.

From Performance to Position

Most of us live like we're trying to get God to love us. We serve Him hoping He'll notice. We obey Him hoping He'll approve. We clean ourselves up hoping He'll finally accept us.

But that entire system is backwards.

You don't serve God to get loved. You serve God because you are loved and elevated. You don't obey to earn a position. You obey because He's already given you one.

The difference is massive. One is slavery. The other is sonship.

One is exhausting. The other is rest.

When you understand that your identity as a king and priest is already settled, it changes everything. You stop scrambling for approval. You stop living afraid that one bad day will disqualify you. You stop comparing yourself to others, wondering if you measure up.

You're a king. You're a priest. Not because you're good enough, but because He made you one.

The Kingly Side: Authority and Purpose

As a king, you carry authority. Not the kind that demands everyone bow to you, but the kind that exercises spiritual dominion in the name of Jesus.

This goes all the way back to the garden. God created Adam and told him to take dominion, to rule, to exercise authority over creation. Sin hijacked that calling. But in Christ, it's been restored.

You're not meant to live as a victim of circumstances. You're meant to rule in your sphere of influence. To conquer through Christ. To exercise the authority He's given you in prayer, in your family, in your workplace, in your ministry.

Exodus 19:6

> "And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel."

God's original plan for Israel was to be a kingdom of priests. That plan was delayed by disobedience, but it was never canceled. In Christ, it's fulfilled. You are part of that kingdom. You carry that authority.

But here's the kicker: you exercise it through humility, not arrogance. Through service, not selfishness. Through love, not manipulation.

A true king in God's Kingdom doesn't lord it over others. He lifts them up.

The Priestly Side: Access and Intercession

As a priest, you have access to God. Not someday. Not after you clean up. Right now.

Under the Old Covenant, only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies, and he could only do it once a year. One man. One day. That was it.

But when Jesus died on the cross, the veil in the temple was torn from top to bottom. God ripped it open. He said, "Come in. All of you. Anytime."

You don't need a mediator between you and God. Jesus is your mediator, and He's already brought you in. You have direct access to the throne of grace.

And not only that, you get to intercede for others. You stand before God on behalf of your family, your church, your community. You carry their burdens. You lift their names. You plead their case.

That's priestly work. And it's your calling.

Stop Living in the Pit When You've Been Moved to the Palace

Too many believers are living like they're still in the pit. They're still wallowing in shame. Still rehearsing their failures. Still convinced that God is keeping score.

But you've been moved. You're not in the pit anymore. You're in the palace. You're seated with Christ in heavenly places. You're clothed in royal robes. You're standing before the throne as a priest.

The question is: Are you going to start living like it?

You see, the problem isn't that God hasn't done His part. The problem is we keep forgetting what He's done. We keep sliding back into old ways of thinking. We keep trying to earn what's already been given.

But the truth is louder than the lie.

You are not disqualified. You are not second-class. You are not on probation.

You are a king and a priest unto God. And that's not going to change tomorrow, next week, or next year. It's already done.

If you've been carrying the weight of trying to prove yourself to God, I want to invite you to read this . It's a simple truth that changed my life: God already loves you exactly as you are. You don't have to earn it. You just have to receive it.

Living from Your Identity, Not for It

Here's the shift: You don't live to become a king and priest. You live from the reality that you already are one.

That means:

You don't pray to get God's attention. You pray because you already have it.
You don't serve to earn His favor. You serve because you're already favored.
You don't obey to avoid punishment. You obey because you're a son, not a slave.
You don't strive to measure up. You rest in the finished work of Jesus.

This is what it means to live from your identity instead of for it.

And when you do, everything changes. The pressure lifts. The fear fades. The striving stops. And you start walking in the freedom and authority that's been yours all along.

The Glory Belongs to Him

Revelation 1:6 ends with this: "to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."

Notice where the glory goes? Not to us. To Him.

We're kings and priests, yes. But we're not the King of Kings. We're not the Great High Priest. Jesus is.

We rule under His authority. We serve in His strength. We intercede in His name. All the glory, all the honor, all the dominion, it belongs to Him.

And that's exactly how it should be.

Because the only reason we've been lifted from the pit to the palace is because He came down into the pit to get us. He took our place. He bore our shame. He paid our debt. And then He lifted us up and gave us a seat at His table.

So yes, we're royalty. But we're not self-made royalty. We're adopted sons and daughters, crowned by the King who loved us enough to die for us.

That's the real story. That's the gospel. That's the truth that will set you free.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be a "kingly priest"?

It means you carry both authority and access. As a king, you exercise spiritual dominion in Christ's name. As a priest, you have direct access to God and the privilege of interceding for others. Both are already yours because of what Jesus did, not because of what you've earned.

How can I be a king and priest if I still struggle with sin?

Your identity isn't based on your performance. It's based on Christ's finished work. Yes, you'll stumble. Yes, you'll fail. But your position before God doesn't change. You're not trying to become something: you already are something. Walk in that truth, and let it shape your obedience from a place of rest, not striving.

Does being a king and priest mean I'm better than other people?

Absolutely not. It means you've been given a calling to serve and intercede. True kings in God's Kingdom don't lord it over others: they lift them up. Your authority is meant to bless, not dominate. And your access to God is meant to bring others into His presence through prayer and witness.

The Saul Trap: Why a Polished Look is No Substitute for a Pious Heart

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:00:01 GMT

What Scripture teaches about leadership, integrity, and the heart God sees

We've all done it. We've scrolled through a candidate's social media, looked at their stage presence, checked out their resume with all the right bullet points, and thought, "This is the one." They look the part. They sound the part. They have the charisma, the confidence, the polish.

But looking the part and being the part are two very different things.

Israel learned this the hard way when they chose their first king.

The Man Who Looked Like a King

1 Samuel 9:2
> "And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly: and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people."

Saul was impressive. Head and shoulders above everyone else, literally. Handsome. Strong. The kind of guy who walks into a room and everyone notices. He was the pick of the kingdom. If you were casting a movie about royalty, Saul would get the role.

The problem? Israel chose him based on what they could see, not who he actually was.

There's no record of anyone examining his past, his character, his heart, or his integrity. No one asked about his walk with God. No one looked at how he treated people when no one was watching. They just saw the packaging and said, "Yes, that's our king."

God gave them exactly what they wanted: a king like the rest of the world.

And it was a disaster.

What Looked Good on the Outside Crumbled on the Inside

Saul's story is a cautionary tale for anyone involved in ministry leadership training or christian leadership development. His outward status and position could not compensate for his spiritual disobedience and separation from God.

Despite being chosen and anointed as Israel's king, Saul's reliance on external means rather than genuine faith in God led to his downfall. God stopped communicating with Saul because Saul had walked away from God and stopped listening. Rather than repenting or returning to God, Saul became trapped by fear and desperation.

When facing the Philistines, Saul's fear drove him to make irrational decisions that violated God's explicit commands. He even consulted a medium: the Witch of Endor: directly violating God's law. This revealed the core issue: Saul's polish as a king and his initial anointing meant nothing without ongoing obedience and faith.

The polish wore off. The character never showed up.

The King Israel Needed Was Coming

God wasn't done with Israel. He had a different kind of king in mind.

1 Samuel 16:7
> "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."

David wasn't the obvious choice either. He was the youngest. He was out in the fields with the sheep while his older, more impressive brothers stood in line. But God saw what Samuel couldn't see at first: David's heart.

David wasn't perfect. Far from it. But he had something Saul never developed: a heart that turned toward God instead of away from Him. When David sinned, he repented. When David failed, he sought the Lord. When David was broken, he didn't reach for a medium or a shortcut: he reached for his God.

Leadership in the church isn't about who looks the best on a Sunday morning. It's about who runs back to Jesus on a Tuesday night when no one is watching.

How We Fall Into the Saul Trap Today

We do the same thing Israel did. We're impressed by the resume, the platform, the polish. We see the big ministry, the charisma, the stage presence, and we assume the character matches the appearance.

But here's the uncomfortable truth: a polished public persona is no substitute for a pious heart.

I've watched ministries hire "the impressive one" instead of "the faithful one." I've seen churches choose leaders based on their ability to draw a crowd rather than their ability to shepherd a soul. And I've seen the wreckage that follows when the polish wears off and there's nothing underneath.

The Warning Signs We Ignore

When we're choosing leaders for our ministries, we often skip the hard questions:

How do they treat people who can't do anything for them?
What does their family say about them?
Do they seek God in private, or only perform for the public?
How do they respond to correction?
What happens when they fail?

We get dazzled by the "head and shoulders above" appearance and forget to look at the heart.

What Real Leadership Looks Like

If you've been hurt by a "Saul leader": someone who looked the part but lacked the heart: I want you to know something: God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency. He's looking for something deeper.

True leadership in the church is about integrity when no one is watching. It's about a heart that runs toward God, not away from Him. It's about humility that admits failure and seeks restoration.

David wasn't a perfect king, but he was a repentant king. That's the difference.

When you're looking for leaders: whether for your ministry, your church, or your organization: here's what to search for:

1. A Heart That Seeks God in Private

Public prayer is easy. Private devotion is costly. Look for the person who prays when no one will know. Look for the one who studies Scripture not to preach, but to be changed.

2. A Pattern of Repentance, Not Just Performance

Everyone fails. The question isn't if they will mess up; it's what they do when they do. Do they deflect blame like Saul, or do they own it and seek restoration like David?

3. Fruit in the Hidden Places

Check their marriage. Check their family. Check how they treat the janitor and the intern. The fruit of the Spirit shows up in the ordinary moments, not just the spotlight.

4. A Teachable Spirit

Saul stopped listening to God. David kept listening, even when it hurt. A leader who can't receive correction is a leader who will eventually self-destruct.

The Grace in the Mess

Here's the beautiful part: even when we mess up and choose the "Saul" instead of the "David," God doesn't abandon His people. He keeps working. He keeps redeeming. He keeps shaping.

If you've been burned by a leader who looked good but lacked character, don't let that steal your hope. Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first. God's mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope.

And if you're a leader who realizes you've been living more like Saul than David: more concerned with how you look than who you are: there's grace for you too. The cross doesn't just cover your sins; it transforms your identity. You don't have to perform anymore. You can repent, return, and rest.

God doesn't want polished leaders. He wants pious hearts. And the good news is, He's the one who does the transforming.

Moving Forward: Choose Character Over Charisma

As we choose the leaders of our ministries, let's commit to examining who they are, not just what they look like. Let's search out integrity, character, and a genuine walk with God.

Let's stop being impressed by the "head and shoulders above" appearance and start looking for the "man after God's own heart" reality.

The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first. And when we choose leaders who understand that, we create ministries that reflect the heart of God, not just the polish of the world.

If you're navigating leadership decisions or trying to recover from the damage of a "Saul leader," I'd love to walk with you. Check out more at waustingardner.com or dive deeper into what it means to lead from identity rather than performance in The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are .

FAQ: Leadership & the Saul Trap

What does "choosing leaders based on appearance" look like in modern ministry?

It looks like hiring the person with the biggest platform, the most impressive resume, or the most charisma without examining their character, their private walk with God, or how they treat people behind closed doors. We get dazzled by what we can see and forget to search for integrity.

How can I avoid falling into the "Saul Trap" when selecting leaders?

Ask the hard questions. Look at their family, their fruit in hidden places, their response to correction, and their private devotion to God. Choose character over charisma, and integrity over impressiveness. A polished appearance is no substitute for a pious heart.

What should I do if I've been hurt by a leader who looked good but lacked character?

First, know that God sees you and hasn't abandoned you. Don't let someone else's failure steal your hope or your faith. Seek healing, surround yourself with safe people, and remember that God's grace is bigger than anyone's betrayal. Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself( rest comes first.)

Chasing Empty Dreams: Why 'Fitting In' is Killing Your Peace

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 13:57:35 GMT

Why seeking approval leaves you empty and trusting God brings rest

You've felt it.

That gnawing ache when you scroll through someone else's life and think, "Why don't I have that?"

The beautiful house. The thriving ministry. The influence. The respect. The ease.

You look at what others have, and suddenly what God gave you doesn't feel like enough anymore.

That's exactly where Israel was standing when they demanded a king.

The Original FOMO

1 Samuel 12:21 And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.

Israel looked around at the nations surrounding them and made a devastating choice: they wanted to fit in.

They had God Himself as their King. They had His direct presence, His miracles, His protection. But that wasn't enough. They wanted what everyone else had: a visible, tangible, human king who looked impressive and made them feel normal.

God gave them what they asked for. He gave them Saul. And then Samuel stood before the people with this warning: Don't go after vain things.

Don't chase the empty stuff that looks so appealing but can't actually deliver what it promises.

The world had a prettier religion. Beautiful images. A fleshly, sense-appealing system that looked good on the outside. Samuel warned them: Don't go after that.

Because those things are vain. They cannot profit. They cannot deliver. They are empty.

And we're doing the exact same thing today.

What We're Really Chasing

We look at the world around us and we want what they have.

We want their success. Their security. Their recognition. Their "freedom" to do whatever they want without consequence.

We've convinced ourselves that God is somehow holding out on us. That if we could just have that thing: that position, that income level, that platform, that relationship: then we'd finally be satisfied.

But here's the truth the world won't tell you: possessions are not worthy of your pursuit.

Proverbs 23:5 Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven.

The stuff you're chasing? It's got wings. It won't stay. It can't satisfy. It will leave you emptier than when you started.

Luke 12:15 says it even more directly:

And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

Your life is not made richer by what you own. It's made richer by who owns you.

And if Jesus owns you, you already have everything you need.

The Lie We Keep Believing

Maybe you've said it out loud. Maybe you've just thought it quietly in the dark.

"God isn't letting me have as much fun as they're having."

You see someone else living with apparent freedom: doing what they want, getting what they want, experiencing what looks like joy: and you feel cheated.

But that's the oldest lie in the book. Literally.

The serpent whispered to Eve, "God's holding out on you. He doesn't want you to have the good stuff."

And we've been believing that lie ever since.

Here's what actually happens when you chase the "fun" the world is having: you end up with heartache, not happiness.

1 Timothy 6:9-10 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

Pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

That's what chasing empty dreams does. It doesn't set you free. It runs you through.

You think you're missing out, but what you're actually missing is peace.

God Knows What You Need

The problem isn't that God is withholding good things from you.

The problem is that we've redefined "good" based on what everyone else is chasing.

But God knows exactly what you need. And He wants to meet those needs in the best way, at the best time.

Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.

When God blesses you, it comes without regret. Without the hidden cost. Without the strings attached.

When you chase what the world offers, you get the thing: but you also get the debt, the anxiety, the emptiness, the relational wreckage, and the soul-sorrow that comes with it.

God's blessing doesn't work that way. His provision doesn't come with a side of destruction.

Matthew 6:31-33 lays it out clearly:

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Seek first the kingdom. Not the stuff. Not the status. Not the fitting in.

Seek God. And He will add what you actually need.

Not what Instagram says you need. Not what your flesh craves. But what your soul requires to thrive.

Stop Chasing. Start Seeking.

You don't have to keep running after things that can't deliver.

You don't have to keep comparing your life to someone else's highlight reel.

You don't have to keep believing the lie that God is keeping something good from you.

Psalm 37:16 reminds us:

> A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.

A little with God is better than much without Him.

The peace that comes from trusting God with your needs is worth more than all the possessions, prestige, and power the world can offer.

So stop chasing empty dreams that lead to heartache. Stop going after vain things that cannot profit or deliver.

Instead, seek God. Trust Him. Let Him meet your needs in His way and His time.

And discover what Israel forgot: when you have God, you have everything.

If you're wrestling with believing God's love is enough, I wrote about that in The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are . It's the foundation everything else is built on.

And if you want more encouragement on living from rest instead of striving, check out the Followed by Mercy podcast where we unpack what it looks like to stop performing and start resting in God's finished work.

FAQ: Chasing Empty Dreams

What does it mean to chase "vain things"?

Vain things are pursuits that look valuable but can't actually deliver what they promise. They're empty. They can't save you, satisfy you, or sustain you. Possessions, prestige, and power all fall into this category when we chase them instead of God.

How do I know if I'm chasing the wrong things?

Ask yourself: Am I more anxious or more peaceful? If your pursuits are stealing your peace and making you feel like you're always behind, you're likely chasing something empty. God's provision brings rest, not relentless striving.

Does this mean I shouldn't have goals or ambitions?

Not at all. It means your goals should flow from seeking God first, not from trying to keep up with everyone else. When God leads you toward something, He provides what you need without the soul-damage that comes from chasing the world's version of success.

Not Satisfied with What God Does for You?

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:45:02 GMT

Why Disappointment with God Often Comes from Misunderstanding His Grace

1 Samuel 2:29

> Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded in my habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people?

That word "kick" hits different when you're honest about your own heart, doesn't it?

God wasn't just calling out bad behavior. He was exposing an attitude, a restless, ungrateful dissatisfaction with what He had already given. And if we're not careful, we can find ourselves kicking at the very blessings God has placed in our lives.

The Story Behind the Verse

This verse lands right in the middle of the story of Eli and his sons, Hophni and Phinehas. God reminds Eli in 1 Samuel 2:28 that He had been good to him and his family. He chose Eli from among all the tribes of Israel. He made him a priest. He gave him the offerings. God had been generous.

But Eli's sons weren't satisfied. They took more than what God had given them. They grabbed the best parts of the offerings without respect or permission. And Eli? He didn't do much to stop them. He honored his sons above God.

Before the story is over, all three of them are dead.

That's the spiritual danger of dissatisfaction. It doesn't just make you grumpy, it destroys you.

The Dissatisfaction Trap

Here's the uncomfortable question: Am I satisfied with what God has done for me?

Do I see that He brought me from a place without blessings and has been incredibly good to me? Or do I kick and gripe and complain about what He's given me? Do I worry more about what my family thinks or what He thinks?

I'll be honest with you, I've been there. I often complain. I want a bigger church. I want more salary. I want to be used more. I often appear very unsatisfied with what God is doing in my life, and truthfully, there have been seasons when I absolutely was.

Do you ever face this problem?

Dissatisfaction typically arises from unmet expectations rather than real deprivation. When you feel God isn't giving you what you deserve, that emotion gets tangled up with lies. You start believing that God is holding out on you. That He's not being fair. That you deserve better.

And here's the kicker: dissatisfaction can become a black hole in the soul that destroys every opportunity for contentment. If you start despising what God has given you, you open the door to destructive spiritual consequences.

What Kicking at God's Blessings Looks Like

When I say "kicking," I don't just mean complaining out loud. I mean the subtle, silent rejection of God's provision.

It's the pastor who looks at his small congregation and feels embarrassed instead of grateful.

It's the missionary who compares his ministry to others and feels like a failure.

It's the believer who focuses on what they don't have instead of the abundance already in their hands.

Eli's sons kicked at God's provision by taking more. We kick at God's provision by believing less is proof that God doesn't care.

Both are rooted in the same lie: God isn't enough, and what He gives isn't enough either.

The deeper issue often involves your view of God's control and trustworthiness. When circumstances don't align with your plans, dissatisfaction results from your inability or unwillingness to trust God, even when you don't understand what He's doing.

My Own Wrestling Match

Let me get real with you for a minute.

I do not want to kick at His blessings. I don't want to have a bad attitude about what He's given me. I do not deserve to live even one more day, yet He is blessing me, giving me life, allowing me to serve Him.

God's people have taken very good care of me over all these years. They have done far more for me than I deserve.

But I still catch myself wanting more. Wanting a different platform. Wanting better outcomes. Wanting people to see my work and respond differently.

And every time I feel that restlessness rise up, I have to ask myself: Am I kicking against what God is doing in my life?

Do I have an attitude? Do I feel like He isn't being fair with me? Do I feel like He's a hard taskmaster?

If I'm honest, the answer is sometimes yes.

The Shift: From Complaint to Gratitude

Here's what I've learned: Dissatisfaction isn't the same as spiritual hunger.

Spiritual hunger drives you toward God. Dissatisfaction drives you away from Him.

You can redirect that restlessness. You can turn it into prayer, humility, and service. But you have to stop blaming God and start seeking Him.

Seek God rather than satisfaction in God. The key shift is moving from trying to feel satisfied to simply seeking God Himself.

I have a pastor friend who is possibly on his death bed right now. Suddenly, what seems important shifts. What is really important? God has blessed him and used him. God has saved us from deserved hell and destruction. God has given us so many blessings. We have lived the abundant life.

When you stand at the edge of eternity, you don't count your complaints. You count your blessings.

And honestly, when I stop kicking long enough to look around, I see I've been standing in the middle of a feast the whole time.

If you're wrestling with dissatisfaction, let me ask you this: What if God is calling you to be part of the solution to the gap you see? Many people feel dissatisfied without being willing to serve or labor for change.

Maybe your dissatisfaction isn't a signal that God has failed you. Maybe it's an invitation to step into a deeper partnership with Him. To stop demanding and start serving. To stop kicking and start kneeling.

A Choice to Make Today

I refuse to kick against His working in my life today. I will be satisfied and say so.

That doesn't mean I ignore areas where growth is needed. It doesn't mean I stop dreaming or asking God for more influence or fruit. But it does mean I stop treating God like He owes me something.

You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held.

If you've been dissatisfied: if you've been kicking at what God has given you: can I invite you to stop? Just for today. Just for this moment.

Take a few minutes and thank God. List out loud what He's done. Name the blessings. Acknowledge the provision. Confess the complaining.

And then rest in this truth: God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency. He's holding you with steady hands, even when you don't feel steady yourself.

I've written more about learning to rest in God's unconditional love over at the hub . If you're struggling to believe God is truly for you, that article might help.

God bless you. And may we both learn to stop kicking and start kneeling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I'm genuinely struggling and not just complaining?

There's a difference between honest lament and entitled dissatisfaction. If you're in real pain or hardship, bring it to God. He can handle your questions. But if you're comparing your blessings to someone else's and feeling cheated, that's the kicking Eli did: and it leads to destruction, not healing.

How do I know if my dissatisfaction is from God or from selfishness?

Ask yourself: Does this discontent drive me toward God or away from Him? Does it make me want to pray more or complain more? Godly discontent leads to prayer, humility, and service. Selfish dissatisfaction leads to blame, bitterness, and entitlement.

Can I ask God for more without being ungrateful?

Absolutely. The issue isn't asking: it's demanding. It's not wrong to desire growth, influence, or blessing. It's wrong to believe you deserve it and to kick at God when He doesn't deliver on your timeline. Ask with open hands, not clenched fists.

Kingdom Succession

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 13:45:03 GMT

How to Lead the Next Generation Without Losing Your Identity

I've watched too many ministry leaders hang on too long.

Not because they're prideful. Not because they're power-hungry. But because somewhere along the way, they confused who they are with what they do.

When your identity is wrapped up in your position, passing the baton feels like passing away. And the result? Ministries that die with their founders. Churches that shrink from thousands to hundreds because the wrong person inherited a title but not a vision. Leaders who can't let go because they don't know who they'd be without the platform.

After five decades in ministry, planting churches, training leaders, and watching kingdom work succeed or stumble, I've learned this: Kingdom succession isn't about finding someone to replace you. It's about raising someone to outlast you.

And here's the grace-soaked truth: You can pass the baton without losing yourself, because your identity was never in the baton to begin with.

The Identity Trap That Keeps Leaders Stuck

Let me tell you what happens when you let your role define your worth.

You start measuring your value by attendance numbers, ministry impact, and how many people still need you. You unconsciously begin making decisions that keep you indispensable. You micromanage. You withhold authority. You tell yourself you're "protecting the vision," but really, you're protecting your sense of purpose.

I've been there. I've felt the pull.

But here's what the Word says:

1 Corinthians 3:6-7
> "I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase."

You planted. Someone else will water. God gets the glory. Your identity isn't in the planting, it's in being planted in Christ.

When Paul wrote those words, he was releasing the Corinthian church from hero worship. He was reminding them (and us) that positions are temporary, but our place in Christ is permanent.

If you can't separate your identity from your ministry role, you'll sabotage your successor before they ever get started. You'll hand them a title but hold onto the authority. You'll say you're mentoring, but you'll really be monitoring.

That's not kingdom succession. That's kingdom suffocation.

Choosing a Successor Who Shares Your DNA, Not Just Your Job Description

Here's where most leaders get it wrong: They look for competence when they should be looking for chemistry.

I'm not talking about personality fit. I'm talking about spiritual DNA. Vision alignment. Kingdom values. The kind of bond that makes someone not just your employee, but your son or daughter in the faith.

2 Timothy 2:2
> "And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also."

Paul didn't hand the church over to the most talented speaker or the best administrator. He handed it to Timothy, a young man he'd mentored, invested in, and loved like a son.

Your successor needs three non-negotiables:

Spiritual depth. They pray. They sit with Scripture. They know how to hear from God when the room gets loud.
Shared vision. They don't just respect what you've built, they're passionate about where it needs to go next.
Proven character under pressure. They've been tested. They've failed, learned, and gotten back up. They're problem-solvers, not just problem-identifiers.

I've seen churches split because a capable leader with a different vision was handed the keys. Capability without alignment is a recipe for heartbreak. Your people will feel the disconnect. The culture will shift. And within a few years, everything you built will look unrecognizable.

Choose someone who already has the respect of your congregation. If your people don't trust them before the transition, they won't follow them after it.

The Transfer Process: Public, Intentional, and Messy

Here's what I learned from watching Jesus.

He didn't keep His departure a secret. He talked about it constantly. He prepared His disciples by reminding them, "I'm not going to be here forever. You need to be ready."

And when the time came, He didn't ghost them. He gave them the Holy Spirit, commissioned them publicly, and sent them out with His full authority.

John 14:12
> "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father."

That's kingdom succession. Jesus didn't say, "Try to keep things afloat." He said, "You're going to do greater things than I did."

If you want your successor to thrive, you have to publicly empower them. Not with empty words, but with real authority. Delegate responsibilities while you're still around to coach them through the mess. Let them make decisions, and yes, let them make mistakes.

Peter Drucker was right: Leaders who take risks make about the same number of mistakes as leaders who don't. The difference? Risk-takers grow. Risk-avoiders stagnate.

Give your successor room to lead before they have the title. Let them preach. Let them cast vision. Let them sit in the meetings that matter. And when they stumble (because they will), coach them through it.

Succession isn't a one-day event. It's a multi-year process of transferring authority, credibility, and trust.

And here's the part that'll test you: You have to stay out of the way once the baton is passed. You can't be the "founder emeritus" who undermines every decision. You can't be the ghost in the hallway that people run to when they don't like the new direction.

If you trust them enough to lead, trust them enough to lead differently than you did.

Your Identity Was Never in the Position: It's in the Person of Christ

Let me bring this home.

The reason so many leaders struggle with succession is because they've built their sense of worth on their ministry impact. And when it's time to step back, they feel like they're losing themselves.

But friend, you were never defined by what you did. You were defined by whose you are.

Galatians 2:20
> "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

Your identity is not "Pastor." It's not "Missionary." It's not "Founder." Your identity is beloved child of God. That was true before you ever stepped into ministry, and it'll be true long after you step out.

When you root your identity in Christ, succession becomes freedom, not loss. You get to watch someone else run with the vision. You get to cheer them on. You get to mentor from the sidelines without needing the spotlight.

And honestly? There's something profoundly beautiful about seeing the next generation surpass you. That's not failure. That's legacy.

I've written more about this kind of identity shift in The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are : because if you don't believe God's love for you is unconditional, you'll keep trying to earn it through ministry performance. And that's a trap you'll never escape.

The Grace to Let Go

Here's the final word: Letting go isn't giving up. It's trusting God with what He gave you in the first place.

You were a steward, not an owner. You planted, someone else will water, and God will give the increase.

Kingdom succession isn't about losing your identity. It's about finally resting in the only identity that ever mattered: You are loved, you are held, and you are His.

Pass the baton. Cheer them on. And trust that the same God who called you is more than able to finish what He started.

FAQ: Kingdom Succession and Leadership Transition

How do I know when it's time to step back?

When you find yourself making decisions to protect your position instead of advance the mission, it's time. When younger leaders are ready but you keep "needing one more year," it's time. Trust the Spirit's leading: and trust the people around you who love you enough to tell you the truth.

What if my successor makes decisions I disagree with?

Let them lead. You handed them the authority: now honor it. If the decisions are unbiblical or unethical, have a private conversation. But if they're just different, give them space. They're not you, and that's okay. God didn't call them to be you. He called them to be the leader this season needs.

How do I stay involved without being in the way?

Be available, not anxious. Mentor when asked, but don't hover. Pray for them constantly. Speak well of them publicly. And resist the urge to "fix" things they're figuring out. If they want your input, they'll ask. If they don't, trust that God is teaching them what they need to learn.

The Art of the Pivot

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:05:14 GMT

When God Changes Your Ministry Direction Mid-Stream

You're cruising along in ministry. The programs are working. The team is clicking. You've got momentum. Then God taps you on the shoulder and says, "We're going a different direction."

And you think, Now? Really?

I've been there more times than I can count. The pivot in ministry isn't the exception: it's the normal Christian life. If you've been leading long enough, you know that "mid-stream" is exactly when God loves to redirect your course.

The question isn't if you'll pivot. It's how you'll respond when you do.

The Moment You Realize the Ground Is Shifting

Let me take you back to Peru. We had planted churches, trained leaders, and built a Bible institute. The ministry was thriving. I had a clear vision for the next decade. Then God started closing doors I thought would stay open forever.

At first, I resisted. I doubled down. I tried harder. I prayed louder. But the harder I pushed, the clearer it became: this season was ending, and a new one was beginning.

Proverbs 16:9 says it perfectly:

> "A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps."

You can plan all you want. You can build your five-year strategy and color-code your calendar. But God reserves the right to redirect your steps at any moment. And when He does, it's not punishment. It's leadership.

The pivot isn't failure. It's faithfulness to follow the Guide who sees the whole map.

Hard Seasons vs. New Seasons: How to Tell the Difference

One of the biggest struggles in ministry pivots is discernment. How do you know if you're in a hard season where you need to press through, or a new season where you need to let go and move forward?

Here's what I've learned after 50+ years: Hard seasons test your character. New seasons test your flexibility.

In a hard season, the mission is still clear: you're just walking through fire to get there. You feel resistance, but you also feel confirmation. God is still saying, "Keep going."

In a new season, the mission itself is shifting. You feel resistance, but you also feel restlessness. The old wineskin doesn't fit anymore. God is saying, "Let go. I'm doing something different."

Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us:

> "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven."

God doesn't waste seasons. He uses them to prepare you for what's next. But you have to be willing to recognize when the clock has changed.

The Danger of Ministry Momentum

Here's the trap: momentum feels like confirmation. When things are rolling, we assume we're supposed to keep rolling. But momentum can carry you right past the exit God has prepared for you.

I've seen pastors stay in churches five years too long because "it's still working." I've watched missionaries burn out because they couldn't admit the field had changed. I've been that guy: holding on to a vision God had already released me from.

Momentum is a gift. But it can also be a golden handcuff.

Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is stop doing what's working and start doing what God is whispering.

What a Biblical Pivot Looks Like

Let's talk about Paul. The apostle had a clear plan: Asia. He was ready to preach the gospel there. But Acts 16:6-7 tells us:

> "Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia, After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not."

God didn't just close one door. He closed two. And then, in a vision, Paul saw a man from Macedonia saying, "Come over and help us."

That pivot changed the course of Western Christianity. But notice: Paul didn't pivot because he felt like it. He pivoted because God redirected him, and he was willing to follow.

Your pivot might not be as dramatic. It might be a quiet knowing that the ministry you started needs new leadership. It might be a door closing that you thought was your "promised land." It might be a health crisis that forces you to slow down and recalibrate.

God uses all of it. And He's not surprised by any of it.

Practical Steps for Navigating the Pivot

Here's what I've learned about walking through a ministry pivot with grace and wisdom:

1. Stop Fighting the Closing Door

When God closes a door, don't break it down. Stop spending your energy trying to resurrect what He's releasing you from. Trust that He's closing it for a reason.

2. Listen to the People God Has Placed Around You

Your spouse, your mentors, your closest leaders: they often see the pivot before you do. Don't dismiss their input because you're emotionally invested in the old vision.

3. Give Yourself Permission to Grieve

Pivots involve loss. You're leaving something behind. Don't spiritualize the grief. Let yourself feel it. God is big enough to handle your sadness.

4. Ask God to Show You What's Next: But Don't Rush Him

You don't have to have the new plan figured out the day the old plan ends. Sometimes God calls you to a season of waiting before He reveals the next chapter. That's not limbo. That's preparation.

5. Focus on the Mission, Not the Method

Your calling might stay the same even when your assignment changes. I'm still called to equip leaders: but the way I do it has pivoted multiple times. The goal is constant. The method is flexible.

If you're struggling with letting go of pain from the past, I wrote about that here: Are You Still Carrying Wasted Pain?

The Grace to Pivot

Here's the truth I want you to hold on to: God doesn't pivot you to punish you. He pivots you to position you.

Every redirection is an invitation to trust Him more deeply. Every closed door is proof that He's guiding your steps, not abandoning them.

Proverbs 3:5-6 is the anchor:

> "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

You don't have to see the whole map. You just have to follow the Guide. And the Guide is good. He's never lost a traveler. He's never led anyone into a dead end. He's never pivoted someone without a purpose.

When you look back on this pivot ten years from now, you'll see His fingerprints all over it. You'll say, "I didn't see it then, but He was leading me the whole time."

Trust Him. Let go. Follow.

And for more encouragement on trusting God's unconditional love through the hard transitions, check out The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are .

FAQ: When God Changes Your Ministry Direction

How do I know if I'm hearing God or just feeling tired?

Fatigue makes you want to quit. God's redirection gives you a sense of peace about releasing something, even if it's bittersweet. If you're just exhausted, rest first. If you're being redirected, you'll still feel the tug after the rest.

What if my church or team doesn't understand the pivot?

Lead them with honesty and humility. Share what God is showing you, invite their input, and give them time to process. Some will follow. Some won't. That's okay. Your job is to obey God, not to convince everyone.

Is it okay to pivot if people still need me in my current role?

God doesn't call you to be indispensable. He calls you to be obedient. If He's moving you, He'll provide for the people you're leaving behind. Trust that He loves them more than you do.

Want more encouragement for your leadership journey? Subscribe to the Followed by Mercy podcast where I share weekly reflections on grace, leadership, and walking with God through every season. You can also connect with me on YouTube @waustingardner for more teaching and real-life stories from the field.

Strategic Forgiveness

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:00:09 GMT

Leading a Congregation Through Corporate Pain

Every pastor faces it eventually: the moment when pain isn't just personal, it's corporate. The whole church hurts. Maybe it's a moral failure in leadership. Maybe it's a split over theology or worship style. Maybe it's a betrayal that sent shockwaves through every small group and committee.

And you're the one standing in front of everyone, trying to figure out how to lead them through without letting bitterness poison the well for the next generation.

I've been there. More than once. And I've learned that corporate pain requires something most of us weren't trained for: strategic forgiveness.

Not the "sweep it under the rug and move on" kind. Not the "accountability-free grace" that pretends nothing happened. But the kind that acknowledges the wound, pursues healing, and refuses to let the enemy use your congregation's pain as fertilizer for bitterness.

The DNA of Bitterness

Here's what I know after five decades in ministry: unresolved corporate pain doesn't just disappear. It gets woven into the DNA of your church.

Ten years later, new members will sense something they can't name. The church will have an unexplained resistance to vulnerability. Trust will be thin. And nobody will remember exactly why, but everybody will feel it.

Hebrews 12:15 warns us clearly:

> "Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled."

Notice the word "many." Corporate bitterness doesn't stay contained. It spreads. It defiles. And as the leader, you're the one responsible for stopping it before it takes root.

What Strategic Forgiveness Actually Looks Like

Strategic forgiveness isn't a single sermon or a clever illustration. It's a sustained, intentional process that moves your congregation from shock and pain to genuine healing and redemptive growth.

Here's what I've learned works:

1. Name the Pain Publicly

You can't heal what you won't acknowledge. Too many pastors try to protect the congregation by minimizing the wound. "We've had some challenges, but we're moving forward." That's not leadership, that's avoidance.

Your people need you to stand up and say, "This hurt us. This was wrong. And we're going to deal with it biblically, together."

When you name the pain, you give people permission to grieve. And grief is the front door to healing.

2. Preach a Multi-Part Series on Biblical Forgiveness

One sermon won't cut it. Plan a sustained teaching series, four to six weeks, that lays a biblical foundation for forgiveness, reconciliation, and corporate healing.

Use passages like Matthew 18:15-17 (the steps of biblical confrontation), Ephesians 4:31-32 (putting away bitterness), and Colossians 3:13 (bearing with and forgiving one another).

> "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." (Ephesians 4:32)

This isn't just teaching, it's creating a shared vocabulary. When your whole church has the same biblical framework, you can move forward together.

3. Create Space for Honest Dialogue

Corporate pain thrives in silence. You need formal structures where people can bring their questions, their hurt, and their concerns directly to leadership.

I've seen too many churches lose families because there was no safe place to process the pain. People withdrew their presence and their giving, and nobody ever asked them why.

Set up town hall meetings. Offer smaller listening sessions. Make it clear that you want to hear from people, not just talk at them.

And here's the key: don't defend. Don't spin. Just listen, acknowledge, and commit to working through it together.

The Balance: Accountability Without Crushing Grace

Here's where a lot of pastors get stuck: they think forgiveness means erasing accountability.

It doesn't.

Biblical forgiveness means releasing bitterness and extending grace. It does not mean pretending sin didn't happen or restoring someone to leadership just because they said "I'm sorry."

1 Timothy 5:19-20 gives us clear guidance:

> "Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear."

Notice the balance: protect leaders from baseless accusations, but address public sin publicly. That's not unforgiving, that's wise.

As the leader, you model this balance by admitting your own mistakes openly. Show your congregation what it looks like to fail, own it, and grow from it. When they see you walking this out, they'll trust the process.

For more on navigating pain with grace, I dive deeper into this in my article on finding peace when you're falsely accused .

Leading Toward Unity, Not Just Survival

Strategic forgiveness isn't about damage control. It's about redemptive growth.

Your goal isn't to get back to "normal." It's to lead your congregation into a deeper understanding of grace, a stronger commitment to biblical community, and a more mature faith.

Philippians 2:2-3 gives us the target:

> "Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."

This is where corporate healing leads: to genuine unity, not forced politeness. To a congregation that has walked through fire together and come out stronger on the other side.

And that only happens when you, as the leader, refuse to let bitterness win.

The Long Game

Strategic forgiveness takes time. You won't see breakthrough in a month. Maybe not in six months.

But if you stay consistent, preaching grace, creating space for dialogue, modeling accountability and compassion, you will see your church heal.

I've watched it happen. I've seen congregations that were ready to implode become some of the healthiest, most grace-filled communities I know.

Not because they avoided pain. But because they walked through it biblically.

And that's the kind of leadership legacy worth leaving.

If you're walking through this right now, I want you to know: you're not alone. This is hard work. But it's holy work. And God is not surprised by your congregation's pain. He's already at work, redeeming it.

For more encouragement on walking through personal and corporate pain with grace, check out my article on letting grace unpack your past and my core message on The Big Leap of Faith, believing God loves you exactly as you are .

You can also listen to more on these themes on the Followed by Mercy podcast , where I unpack what it means to lead from grace, not guilt.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a congregation to heal from corporate pain?

There's no fixed timeline, but expect at least six months to a year for significant healing to take root. The key is sustained, consistent leadership that keeps grace central while addressing the wounds honestly. Quick fixes usually create shallow healing that doesn't last.

What if some people refuse to forgive and keep stirring up bitterness?

You address it directly and biblically. Private conversations first, then, if necessary, public correction per Matthew 18. Protecting the health of the whole body sometimes means confronting those who are poisoning it. That's not unloving, that's pastoral.

Should I ever address the specific details of what caused the corporate pain?

Yes, but wisely. Avoid unnecessary details that would humiliate individuals, but don't hide the core issue. Your congregation needs enough truth to process what happened without turning your pulpit into a gossip session. Balance transparency with dignity.

The Missionary Heart: Prioritizing Internal Health in Ministry

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 13:20:51 GMT

Why Your Internal Health Matters More Than Your External Impact

I have sat across the table from missionaries who were spiritually hemorrhaging. Their reports looked impressive. Their prayer letters glowed with numbers and conversions and new church plants. But their eyes told a different story.

They were dying inside while the ministry was thriving outside.

I know this because I lived it. Over 50+ countries and more than five decades in ministry, I watched good people burn out for Jesus. I watched marriages crumble under the weight of "calling." I watched leaders walk away from the field not because they lost their faith, but because they lost themselves.

And here is the truth nobody tells you in missionary orientation: You can win the world and lose your soul.

The Metric That Matters Most

We are obsessed with the wrong measurements. Baptisms. Attendees. Conversions. Buildings. Budget growth. I am not saying these things do not matter. They do. But they are the fruit, not the root.

When the root system is diseased, the fruit eventually fails. You can prop up a dying tree for a season, but gravity always wins. The missionary who neglects their internal health will eventually collapse under the weight of their external impact.

Proverbs 4:23 says it plainly:

> "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."

Your heart is the wellspring. Everything flows from it. Your marriage. Your ministry. Your influence. Your joy. Your perseverance. If you lose your heart, you lose everything that matters.

The Burden I Carried (And Maybe You Do Too)

I thought taking care of myself was selfish. I thought rest was for the weak. I thought if I slowed down, people would die and go to hell.

That is not faith. That is pride dressed up in missionary clothes.

I carried a burden God never asked me to carry. I tried to be the savior when Jesus already filled that role. I ran on fumes and called it faithfulness. I ignored my body, neglected my soul, and wondered why my family felt like strangers.

The breaking point came quietly. Not in a dramatic burnout. Just a slow erosion. A chronic exhaustion that no amount of vacation could fix. A numbness that crept into my prayers. A distance from God that terrified me because I could not remember when it started.

That is when I realized: An unhealthy missionary cannot sustain a healthy ministry.

You might be living this right now. The pressure to perform. The fear of disappointing your supporters. The guilt when you take a day off. The chronic exhaustion you have learned to ignore. The marriage you keep meaning to invest in. The kids who barely know you.

Friend, listen to me: You are not a machine. You are a human being created in the image of God, and you are more than your output.

What the Bible Actually Says About Sustainability

Jesus operated from a different economy. He did not measure success by how many people He healed or how large the crowds grew. He measured faithfulness by obedience to the Father and care for His own soul.

Mark 1:35 shows us His rhythm:

> "And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed."

Jesus withdrew. Regularly. Intentionally. Even when the crowds were demanding more. Even when people needed healing. He prioritized time with the Father because He knew that connection was the source of everything else.

If Jesus needed solitude and rest, what makes us think we do not?

Paul understood this too. He wrote about running the race, but he also wrote about endurance and sustainability.

1 Corinthians 9:27 says:

> "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway."

Paul knew that neglecting himself could disqualify him from the very ministry he was called to. He took his internal health seriously because he understood the stakes.

The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Your Heart

Here is what research confirms and my experience validates: When your internal world collapses, your external impact follows.

Chronic stress wears down your ability to cope. It affects your relationships. Your decision-making suffers. Your spiritual discernment gets cloudy. Your patience evaporates. Your joy disappears. And eventually, your ministry becomes mechanical, going through the motions while your heart is somewhere else.

Trauma that goes unaddressed becomes the lens through which you see everything. It distorts your theology. It poisons your relationships. It undermines your authority. And it can lead to self-destruction that no one sees coming.

I have watched missionaries return home early, not because the field was too hard, but because they ignored their internal wounds until those wounds became infected. I have seen marriages end in divorce because two people spent so much energy serving God that they forgot to love each other. I have seen leaders walk away from ministry entirely, not because they stopped believing in Jesus, but because they could not sustain the pace anymore.

This is not theoretical. This is the wreckage I have witnessed across decades of ministry.

The Path Forward: Stewarding Your Inner Life

So what do we do? How do we maintain internal health while pursuing external impact?

First, give yourself permission to be human. You are not the Messiah. Jesus already handled that. Your calling is to be faithful, not flawless. Your job is to steward what God has given you, including your body, your marriage, your mental health, and your soul.

Second, build rhythms of rest into your life, not around it. Rest is not what you do when the work is done. Rest is what enables you to do the work in the first place. Sabbath is not a suggestion. It is a commandment rooted in the character of God Himself.

Third, get help when you need it. Talk to a counselor. Find a mentor. Be honest with your sending organization. Address trauma before it metastasizes. Asking for help is not weakness. It is wisdom.

Fourth, measure what matters. Stop evaluating your ministry solely by external metrics. Ask better questions: Am I growing in love? Is my family thriving? Am I walking in joy? Do I sense the presence of God? Is my heart tender toward Him?

If those answers are no, then your external success is hollow.

Finally, anchor yourself in grace. You are not sustained by your performance. You are held by the finished work of Jesus. Your identity is not in your impact. Your identity is in being loved by God. When you forget this, you will burn out trying to earn what you already have.

If you are struggling to believe God loves you exactly as you are: not for what you produce: I wrote about this in The Big Leap of Faith . It is the foundation for everything else.

A Heart Check for Missionaries

Let me ask you a few questions:

When was the last time you felt genuine joy in your ministry?
How is your marriage? Be honest.
Are you ignoring physical symptoms because you are "too busy"?
Do you feel closer to God or further from Him than you did a year ago?
Would your family say you are present with them?

Your answers matter. They reveal the state of your heart. And your heart ithe wellspring of everything that flows from your life.

You have one life. One marriage. One body. One soul. You can replace a ministry. You cannot replace these.

Your internal health is not a luxury. It is the foundation of sustainable, authentic, life-giving ministry.

If you need encouragement in this journey, I share more about walking in freedom and grace over on my Substack and through conversations on the Followed by Mercy podcast . You are not alone in this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it selfish to prioritize my own health over ministry demands?

No. Stewarding your health is biblical obedience, not selfishness. Jesus modeled withdrawal and rest. Paul warned about disqualifying yourself through neglect. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and pretending otherwise is pride, not faith.

How do I know if I'm experiencing burnout or just a hard season?

Burnout is not just fatigue. It is a chronic exhaustion of your coping mechanisms, often accompanied by emotional numbness, relational withdrawal, physical symptoms, and a growing sense of cynicism about ministry. If rest does not restore you and you feel increasingly distant from God and others, seek help.

What if my mission organization expects constant output and does not support rest?

Then you may need to have a hard conversation: or find a healthier sending organization. Any ministry culture that sacrifices people for metrics is operating outside biblical wisdom. Your long-term faithfulness matters more than short-term productivity, and any organization worth serving under will understand that.

Healthy Ministry Team Leadership: Control vs Coaching

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 13:30:03 GMT

Moving from Control to Coachings

I spent the first decade of my ministry leadership trying to hold everything together with white knuckles and a death grip on the steering wheel.

I didn't call it control. I called it "being responsible." I called it "protecting the vision." I called it "making sure things were done right."

But honestly? I was scared to death that if I let go, everything would fall apart.

After more than 50 years in pastoral ministry and missionary work, I can tell you with absolute certainty: the tighter you grip your team, the faster they'll slip through your fingers.

The healthiest ministry teams I've seen, the ones that actually last and multiply, aren't built on control. They're built on coaching. And there's a massive difference between the two.

The Control Trap: Why We Micromanage in the First Place

Let me be honest with you. Most of us didn't start out wanting to be control freaks.

We started out caring deeply. We had a vision. We wanted to serve God well. We were terrified of failing Him.

So we held tight. We checked every detail. We second-guessed every decision our team made. We created systems and structures that funneled every choice back through us.

And we burned out. Our teams felt stifled. Good leaders left. New leaders never developed.

Here's what I've learned: micromanagement isn't a leadership style, it's a fear response.

When you're operating from a place of fear instead of faith, you build teams that depend on you instead of depend on God. You create a bottleneck instead of a pipeline. You become the lid on everyone else's potential.

Proverbs 29:25
> "The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe."

Control is a snare. It feels safe, but it traps you and everyone around you.

What a Healthy Ministry Team Actually Looks Like

After decades of watching teams thrive and teams implode, I've noticed some consistent patterns in the healthy ones.

They Have a Shared Vision Everyone Can Articulate

Healthy teams don't just know what they're doing. They know why it matters. Every person on the team can tell you how their role connects to the bigger mission. They're not just showing up for tasks, they're moving toward something together.

When I was planting churches in Peru, our best teams were the ones where the janitor and the preacher could both tell you the same vision in their own words. That's alignment.

Every Role Is Distinct and Actually Matters

In a healthy team, nobody is a placeholder. Each person has a unique contribution that directly impacts the team's success. There are no "warm bodies just filling a slot."

Think about a baseball team. The pitcher and catcher have completely different jobs, but they're utterly dependent on each other. That's how ministry teams should work.

When someone knows their role truly matters, they show up differently. They engage. They take ownership. They grow.

The Team Is Small Enough That Everyone's Voice Counts

Here's a truth that might sting: most ministry teams are too big.

When you pile too many people into a room, a few loud voices dominate and everyone else checks out. Inquiry turns into advocacy. Collaboration turns into politics.

The healthiest teams I've led or coached have been lean. Small enough that every person's participation actually matters. Small enough that if someone is quiet, everyone notices.

There's Open, Honest Communication Without Fear

This is the big one. Healthy teams create an atmosphere where people can disagree without being disagreeable. Where you can say, "I think we're headed in the wrong direction," without being labeled a troublemaker.

That kind of trust doesn't happen by accident. It's built deliberately by leaders who model vulnerability and reward honesty.

Ephesians 4:15
> "But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."

Truth and love together. Not one or the other.

From Control to Coaching: The Shift That Changes Everything

So how do you actually make the move from controlling to coaching?

It starts with a fundamental shift in how you see your role.

Controllers ask: "How do I make sure this gets done right?"

Coaches ask: "How do I develop people who can lead this without me?"

See the difference?

Control focuses on the task. Coaching focuses on the person.

Control protects the present. Coaching builds the future.

Control creates dependency. Coaching creates leaders.

When you shift from control to coaching, you stop being the bottleneck and start being the catalyst. You stop holding the team together and start releasing them to lead.

Here's what that looks like practically:

You Invest Time in People, Not Just Projects

Healthy teams don't just meet about tasks. They meet about development. You dedicate time in your meetings for spiritual formation, mentoring, and personal growth, not just project updates.

I've learned to build margin into every leadership meeting for questions like: "What's God teaching you right now?" or "Where are you struggling?" That kind of investment pays massive dividends.

You Give Real Authority, Not Just Responsibility

This is where most leaders fail. We delegate the responsibility but keep all the authority. We say, "You're in charge of this," but then we second-guess every decision and override their choices.

Real coaching means giving people the authority to make decisions and the freedom to fail. You create guardrails, not straightjackets. You say, "Here's the vision, here's the budget, here's the deadline, now lead."

You Celebrate Growth Over Perfection

Controllers celebrate flawless execution. Coaches celebrate growth, even when it's messy.

When someone on your team tries something new and it doesn't work, what's your response? If your first instinct is to swoop in and fix it, you're still controlling. If your first instinct is to ask, "What did you learn?" you're coaching.

Colossians 3:23-24
> "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."

Our job isn't to be the quality control department for the kingdom. Our job is to help people serve the Lord with their whole hearts.

The Practical Steps: Building a Coaching Culture

If you're reading this and thinking, "Okay, I see it: but how do I actually change?" here's where to start:

1. Identify Your Control Points

Where do you micromanage? What decisions do you refuse to delegate? What meetings could happen without you but don't? Write them down. Get honest about where fear is driving your leadership.

2. Choose One Area to Let Go

Don't try to change everything at once. Pick one area where you're going to step back and coach instead of control. Give someone real authority. Let them lead. Resist the urge to jump in and fix things.

3. Schedule Regular Coaching Conversations

Build time into your calendar for one-on-one coaching with your key leaders. Ask questions. Listen more than you talk. Help them think through challenges instead of solving everything for them.

4. Create a Feedback Loop

Ask your team: "Where am I holding you back? What decisions could I delegate to you? What would help you lead more effectively?" Then actually listen to what they say.

This kind of vulnerability is terrifying. But it's also where real trust gets built.

Why This Matters for Your Ministry's Future

Here's the bottom line: the health of your ministry tomorrow depends on the leaders you're developing today.

If you're the smartest person in every room, you're not building a team: you're building a fan club. If every decision has to flow through you, you're not creating a movement: you're creating a machine that stops when you do.

I've watched too many ministries fall apart when the founding leader leaves because no one else was actually leading. I've seen too many gifted leaders walk away because they were tired of being micromanaged.

Don't let that be your legacy.

You can build something that lasts beyond you. You can develop leaders who will multiply your impact far beyond what you could ever do alone.

But only if you're willing to move from control to coaching.

If you're wrestling with leadership challenges or need help developing a healthier team culture, I'd love to walk alongside you. Check out more practical leadership insights at Alignment Ministries , or dive deeper into what it means to lead from a place of grace and rest in The Big Leap of Faith .

You don't have to figure this out alone. And honestly? You shouldn't.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I'm micromanaging or just being responsible?

Ask yourself: "Am I doing this because it needs to be done, or because I'm afraid of what will happen if I don't?" Responsibility delegates and empowers. Micromanagement hovers and second-guesses. If your team can't make decisions without checking with you first, you're micromanaging.

What if I delegate and my team makes mistakes?

They will. And that's actually good. Mistakes are how people learn and grow. Your job isn't to prevent every failure: it's to create an environment where people can fail forward. Coach them through the lesson, don't punish them for the mistake.

How long does it take to shift from control to coaching?

It's not a switch: it's a process. Start with one area and build from there. Most leaders I've coached see significant shifts in 6-12 months, but it requires consistent intentionality. The good news? Your team will respond quickly when they feel the freedom to actually lead.

Have You Asked God How to Raise Your Children?

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 13:31:40 GMT

A Devotional from Judges 13:12

Training Includes Discipline

I know discipline isn't a popular word today. But the Bible is clear.

Proverbs 22:6

> "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."

Training means direction. Guidance. Correction. It's not about being harsh or rigid. It's about loving your children enough to help them grow.

Proverbs 22:15

> "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him."

And then there's the New Testament perspective:

Ephesians 6:4

> "And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord."

Notice the balance. Don't provoke them to anger. Don't crush their spirit. But do bring them up in the nurture and instruction of the Lord. Grace and truth. Love and boundaries. Together.

Teach Them Salvation Early

One of the greatest gifts you can give your children is an early understanding of the gospel.

2 Timothy 3:15

> "And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus."

Timothy knew the Scriptures from childhood. That foundation shaped his entire life and ministry.

You should teach your children the Scriptures: and especially salvation: from the time they are small. Don't wait until they're teenagers. Don't assume the church will do it for you. Make it personal. Make it real. Make it home.

The Real Danger

Here's my fear for parents today: God's Word is full of instruction that could make a major difference in your life, and yet you ignore it.

You're concerned about getting them the right education. You teach them facts. You get them involved in socially stimulating events. You worry about who their friends are.

All of that matters. But are you working just as hard to follow God's commands about how to raise the children He has given you?

Have you asked God how to raise your children?

If you haven't: don't you think it's time to seek God and ask Him to help you be the parent He wants you to be?

Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first. And parenting from a place of rest: trusting God's grace and guidance: is far more effective than parenting from fear or performance.

You're Not Alone in This

If this message stirred something in your heart, I want you to know: you're not behind. You're not being graded. You're being held.

God's not keeping score. He's keeping you. And He wants to walk with you through every stage of parenting: the messy parts, the hard conversations, the sleepless nights, and the joyful breakthroughs.

If you'd like to go deeper into living from God's unconditional love (instead of pressure and performance), I'd encourage you to read The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are . It's a great starting point for anyone who wants to experience the freedom of grace.

You can also listen to the Followed By Mercy podcast for more encouragement along the way. And for additional resources, visit waustingardner.substack.com or explore Alignment Ministries .

For Spanish-speaking readers, you can find more content at guillermoagardner.substack.com .

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Judges 13:12 teach us about parenting?

Judges 13:12 shows us that Manoah's first response to learning about his son's birth was to ask God how to raise him. This teaches us that godly parenting begins with seeking God's wisdom and direction rather than relying solely on our own understanding.

How can I practically seek God's guidance for raising my children?

Start with daily prayer and Bible study focused on what Scripture says about parenting. Pause before major decisions and ask God for wisdom. Surround yourself with godly counsel from your church community. Most importantly, model obedience yourself: your children learn more from watching you than from anything you say.

What if I feel like I've already failed as a parent?

You are not responsible for producing perfect outcomes. Even Samson, born under divine calling and parental obedience, later struggled morally. God calls you to faithfulness in training, not perfection in results. His grace covers your mistakes, and it's never too late to start seeking Him for the road ahead.

Inspirational quote about the power of rest in leadership.

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 13:15:01 GMT

Inspirational quote about the power of rest in leadership.

What if everything you believed about strong leadership was built on the wrong foundation?

For most of my life, I thought leadership meant having it all together. No cracks. No failures. No moments of doubt. I thought the best leaders were the ones who never stumbled: or at least never let anyone see them stumble.

I was wrong.

After more than fifty years of pastoral ministry, church planting, and walking alongside leaders in over fifty countries, I've learned something that changed everything: Real grace doesn't hide your failures. It redeems them.

That's what I want to share with you today. Not theory. Not a leadership formula. Just the truth about grace: and how it shapes the kind of leader worth following.

Fifty Years, Fifty Countries, One Lesson

I've had the privilege of training leaders across the globe. From small village churches in South America to packed auditoriums in the United States. From one-on-one mentoring sessions to leadership events where I’ve simply tried to add value. Along the way, I received leadership training through the John Maxwell Organization and am a certified speaker.

And if there's one thing I've learned in all those miles, all those conversations, all those late nights with struggling pastors and exhausted missionaries, it's this:

The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first.

That's not soft theology. That's the foundation of everything. When leaders forget they're loved: unconditionally, before they produce anything: they start performing for approval. And performance-based leadership always cracks under pressure.

I've seen it. I've lived it. And by God's grace, I've been delivered from it.

What "Real Grace" Actually Means for Leaders

Let me be direct: grace is not an excuse to do whatever you want. Grace is the power to become who you were always meant to be.

Romans 6:14 "For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace."

Some leaders hear "grace" and think it means lowering the bar. That's not grace: that's license. Real grace raises the bar by changing the heart.

Here's what real grace looks like in leadership:

It tells the truth about failure. You don't have to pretend. You don't have to spin your story. Grace gives you the freedom to say, "I blew it," without being destroyed by shame.
It makes restoration possible. Legalism writes people off. Grace writes them back in. The same grace that saved you is the grace that restores you after you fall.
It kills the comparison game. When you know you're loved apart from your performance, you stop competing with other leaders and start serving alongside them.

I didn't become legalistic because I hated grace. I became legalistic because I loved God and was afraid of losing Him. Maybe you've been there too. Afraid that one more mistake would disqualify you. Afraid that God's patience was running thin.

Friend, let me tell you: God is not disappointed in you. He is not measuring your worth by your consistency.

When Everything Fell Apart

A few years ago, I faced two of the hardest trials of my life back to back: cancer and COVID.

There's nothing like a diagnosis to strip away the noise. When you're lying in a hospital bed, you're not thinking about your platform or your productivity. You're thinking about what's true.

And here's what I discovered: These tumors are not bigger than God's grace.

That wasn't just a phrase I repeated to comfort myself. It was a revelation. In my weakest moments, when I couldn't preach, couldn't travel, couldn't "produce" anything for the Kingdom: God's love for me didn't waver. Not one inch.

Rest doesn't come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.

That's the message I want every leader to hear. You are not behind. You are not being graded. You are being held.

Leading from a Place of Rest

Here's the shift that changed my leadership: I stopped trying to earn God's approval and started leading from the approval I already had.

Ephesians 2:8-9 "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

When you lead from rest instead of striving, everything changes:

Your patience increases. Because you're not anxious about your own standing, you have margin to extend grace to others.
Your decisions get clearer. Fear clouds judgment. Peace sharpens it.
Your influence deepens. People follow leaders who are secure. Insecurity repels; rest attracts.

This is what I teach in my leadership training through Alignment Ministries . It's what I write about on my blog . And it's what I share on the Followed by Mercy podcast : because this message needs to get out.

Loved people become loving people. And loved leaders become the kind of leaders others actually want to follow.

The Invitation

If you've been leading on fumes: running on guilt, fear, or the pressure to prove yourself: I want to invite you to stop.

Not stop leading. Stop striving.

Take a breath. Open your Bible. And let the truth of God's unconditional love settle into your bones.

Mercy is not trailing behind you with conditions. It is running toward you with intention.

If you're ready to explore what grace-centered leadership looks like in your life, I'd love to walk with you. Here's how we can connect:

Explore my books on faith, leadership, and marriage at waustingardner.com/book-page .
Dive deeper into grace with my cornerstone article, The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are .
Watch and subscribe on YouTube at @waustingardner for weekly encouragement.
Listen to the podcast Followed by Mercy wherever you get your podcasts.

And if you'd like to talk about coaching, mentoring, or having me speak at your event, let's chat .

God's mercy is after you right now, ready to bring real grace and honest hope.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Real Grace" mean in leadership?

Real grace means leading from the security of God's unconditional love rather than striving for approval. It's the freedom to be honest about failure, the power to restore broken people, and the foundation for lasting influence. Grace doesn't lower the standard: it changes the heart so you can meet it.

How can I overcome legalism in my ministry or leadership?

Start by recognizing where fear is driving you. Legalism often grows from a fear of losing God's favor. The antidote is anchoring yourself daily in the finished work of Jesus. You are already accepted. You don't have to earn what's already been given. This article on grace and the law may help you go deeper.

How do I find rest as a leader when there's always more to do?

Rest is not the absence of work: it's the presence of trust. You rest by believing that God's love for you is not tied to your output. Practically, that means building rhythms of stillness into your week and reminding yourself daily: "I am not behind. I am being held." For more on this, explore The Big Leap of Faith .

Stop Trying to Be Good

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:52:24 GMT

Grace-Powered Transformation for Ministry Leaders

You got into ministry because you love Jesus. Somewhere along the way, that love turned into a checklist.

More sermons. More visits. More consistency. More effort. And underneath it all, a quiet fear that you are not measuring up.

I get it. I spent decades there myself.

The Trap We Fall Into

Here is what nobody tells you in seminary: trying harder does not produce holiness. It produces exhaustion.

We read passages about being holy and we white-knuckle our way toward some impossible standard. We preach grace on Sunday and live under law the rest of the week.

The result? Burned-out pastors. Bitter missionaries. Leaders running on fumes and calling it faithfulness.

> "The Christian life was never meant to be powered by fear, pressure, or performance. It was meant to be lived from being loved first."

Grace Changes Everything

Galatians 3:3 "Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?"

Paul asked this question two thousand years ago. We still have not learned the answer.

You did not earn your way into the kingdom. You will not maintain your standing by effort either. The same grace that saved you is the grace that sustains you.

Rest does not come after you fix yourself. Rest comes first.

When you finally believe that God is not disappointed in you, something shifts. You stop performing. You start abiding. And real transformation begins.

What This Means for Your Leadership

Leaders who rest in grace lead differently. They do not need to control every outcome because they trust the One who holds all outcomes. They can admit weakness because their identity is not tied to looking strong.

Loved people become loving people. And loved leaders raise up loved teams.

Go Deeper

This short post barely scratches the surface. If you are ready to explore what grace-powered transformation really looks like in your life and ministry, I wrote a longer piece that unpacks this in detail.

Read the full article here: The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are

You can also catch more on the Followed by Mercy podcast or subscribe to the blog at waustingardner.com/blog .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it wrong to pursue holiness and discipline as a leader?

Not at all. The issue is not effort itself but the fuel behind it. Discipline that flows from being loved produces fruit. Discipline driven by fear of rejection produces burnout.

How do I know if I am leading from grace or from performance?

Ask yourself this: If I failed publicly tomorrow, would I still believe God loves me the same? If the answer feels uncertain, you may be operating from performance. Grace anchors your identity before your results.

Where can I learn more about grace-centered leadership?

Start with The Big Leap of Faith for a deep dive into resting in God's unconditional love. You will also find practical encouragement on the Followed by Mercy podcast .

The Ultimate Guide to Restoring Your Marriage

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:45:03 GMT

Biblical Principles for a Healthy, Fulfilling Relationship

Maybe your marriage feels like it's hanging by a thread. Maybe the silence between you and your spouse has grown so loud it's deafening. Maybe you've wondered if there's any hope left.

Friend, I've walked with couples through some of the darkest valleys a marriage can face. And after fifty-plus years of ministry, I can tell you this with confidence: restoration is possible when Christ is at the center.

This isn't about quick fixes or worldly advice that puts a band-aid on a broken bone. This is about returning to God's original design for marriage, the kind of union He created to reflect His covenant love for us.

Let's walk through this together.

Why Marriage Matters to God

Before we talk about restoration, we need to understand why marriage is worth fighting for in the first place.

Marriage isn't just a human contract. It's a divine covenant.

Genesis 2:24 "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."

God designed marriage to be a picture of unity, intimacy, and permanence. When Jesus spoke about marriage, He reminded us that what God has joined together, no one should separate. Your marriage matters to God, deeply.

That means when your marriage is struggling, you're not fighting alone. God is invested in your restoration.

The Foundation You Can't Skip: Forgiveness

Here's the truth that many couples don't want to hear: no marriage can be restored without forgiveness.

Hurts pile up over the years. Words spoken in anger. Trust broken. Expectations unmet. And if we're honest, we've all contributed to the pain in our marriages.

But forgiveness isn't optional for believers. It's essential.

Ephesians 4:32 "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

Notice the motivation here. We forgive because we have been forgiven. When you understand the depth of God's unconditional love for you , forgiveness becomes possible, even when it's hard.

Forgiveness doesn't mean pretending the hurt didn't happen. It means releasing your grip on bitterness and trusting God with justice. It's a choice you make daily, sometimes hourly, until healing takes root.

Communication That Actually Heals

Most couples think they have a communication problem. What they really have is a listening problem.

Effective communication in marriage isn't about winning arguments or getting your point across. It's about creating a safe space where both spouses feel heard, valued, and understood.

James 1:19 "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath."

Here's a practical principle: seek to understand before seeking to be understood.

Ask questions. Listen without planning your rebuttal. Validate your spouse's feelings even when you see things differently. When both partners feel safe, healing begins.

In my book Ultimate Building Healthy Fulfilling Marriage , I walk through practical steps for rebuilding this kind of communication. It's not complicated, but it does require humility and intentionality.

Patience: The Fruit You Need Most

Marriage restoration doesn't happen overnight. There will be setbacks. There will be days when you want to give up.

This is where patience becomes your greatest ally.

Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

That word "longsuffering" is patience. It's the ability to endure difficult circumstances without losing hope. And here's the beautiful part: it's not something you have to manufacture on your own. It's a fruit of the Spirit.

When you stay connected to Christ, patience grows naturally. You stop demanding instant results and start trusting God's timing.

Put Christ at the Center

Here's the most important principle of all: marriage cannot work well without Jesus Christ at the center.

When both spouses are looking to Christ as their source of love, security, and identity, they stop demanding that their partner fill needs only God can fill. The pressure lifts. Grace flows more freely.

Matthew 19:26 "But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."

Your marriage may feel impossible right now. But with God? All things are possible.

Instead of looking to your spouse for reasons to obey biblical principles, look to your suffering Savior. He's your reference point. He's your motivation. When you love your spouse as an overflow of Christ's love in you, everything changes.

Practical Steps Toward Restoration

Let me give you a roadmap. These aren't magic formulas, but they're proven principles rooted in Scripture.

Step 1: Restore Your Relationship with God First

Before you can restore your marriage, restore your fellowship with God. Confess any sin. Rest in His forgiveness.

1 John 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

When you're walking in fellowship with God, you have the spiritual resources to love your spouse well.

Step 2: Seek Forgiveness and Offer It Freely

Be willing to acknowledge your part in the brokenness. Ask for forgiveness without excuses. And extend forgiveness even when it's not requested.

Step 3: Reaffirm Your Commitment

Malachi 2:14 "Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant."

Marriage is a covenant, not a contract. Reaffirm your commitment through words and actions. Show up consistently. Keep your promises.

Step 4: Invite Community Support

You weren't meant to do this alone. Surround yourself with believers who will pray for you, encourage you, and hold you accountable. A faith-based community can be a powerful tool in restoration.

A Resource for Your Journey

If you're serious about rebuilding your marriage on biblical principles, I want to invite you to check out Ultimate Building Healthy Fulfilling Marriage . It's packed with practical, Scripture-based guidance for couples who want more than survival: they want a thriving, fulfilling relationship.

You can find it and other resources at https://waustingardner.com/book-page/

And if you'd like to go deeper into understanding God's unconditional love: the foundation for everything we've talked about: read The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a marriage be restored after betrayal or deep hurt?

Yes. Restoration is possible when both spouses are willing to do the hard work of forgiveness, rebuilding trust, and putting Christ at the center. It takes time, patience, and often outside support, but God specializes in redeeming broken things.

What if my spouse isn't willing to work on the marriage?

You can only control your own actions. Focus on your own relationship with God, pray consistently for your spouse, and demonstrate Christ-like love. Sometimes one person's transformation creates an environment where the other begins to soften.

How long does marriage restoration take?

There's no set timeline. Healing happens in layers, and it requires consistent effort over months or even years. The goal isn't a quick fix but a lasting transformation built on biblical principles.

Friend, your marriage is worth fighting for. Not because it's easy, but because it reflects something beautiful: God's covenant love for His people.

Take the next step today. Start with forgiveness. Put Christ at the center. And trust that with God, all things are possible.

The Noise of Fear vs. the Quiet of Power (2 Timothy 1:7)

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 13:45:02 GMT

Reclaiming the Power, Love, and Sound Mind God Promised You.

The 3 a.m. Volume

I remember lying awake at 3 a.m., staring at the ceiling. The house was silent. But my mind? It was screaming.

What if I fail them?

What if I'm not enough?

What if they find out I don't have it all together?

The fear wasn't logical. It rarely is. But it was loud. So loud it drowned out everything else: peace, clarity, even the still small voice I desperately needed to hear.

Maybe you know that kind of noise. The kind that shows up uninvited. The kind that makes you rehearse worst-case scenarios like you're preparing for a trial. The kind that whispers you need to do more, be more, prove more: just to be okay.

After fifty years in ministry, I can tell you something: that noise never fully goes away on its own. But I've also learned this: there's a quieter voice. A steadier one. And it changes everything.

The Real Battle Isn't Out There

Here's the point I want you to carry with you today:

Fear is loud. Power is quiet. And God didn't give you the loud one.

We spend so much energy fighting external battles: trying to perform better, impress more people, avoid criticism, prove our worth. But the real battle? It's internal. It's the war between the noise of fear and the quiet of God's Spirit.

Fear operates like a bully. It traps. It enslaves. It paralyzes you into either frantic activity or frozen inaction. And the worst part? Fear sounds reasonable. It disguises itself as wisdom, caution, or responsibility.

But it's a counterfeit.

God's Spirit doesn't scream. He doesn't pressure. He doesn't pile on guilt or demand you earn your seat at the table. His voice is steady, grounded, and full of grace.

What God Actually Gave You

Let's look at what Paul told Timothy: a young pastor who was overwhelmed, timid, and facing a hostile world.

2 Timothy 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

Read that again slowly.

God hath not given us the spirit of fear.

That means if fear is dominating your thoughts, your decisions, your prayers: it didn't come from Him. It's not His gift. It's not His design for you.

What did He give instead? Three things: power , love , and a sound mind .

Let's break those down.

Power: Not What You Think

When we hear "power," we often think of force. Control. The ability to push through obstacles by sheer grit.

But that's not what Paul meant.

The power God gives is divine enablement. It's the quiet strength to face hard things without falling apart. It's the ability to endure suffering, to hold steady when everything shakes, to keep walking when you'd rather quit.

This power doesn't come from your performance. It comes from His presence.

You don't generate it. You receive it.

That's the difference between striving and resting. Striving says, "I have to muster up the strength." Resting says, "His strength is already in me."

W. Austin Gardner has written often about this shift: from external pressure to internal identity. When you stop trying to produce power and start receiving it, everything changes. The noise gets quieter. The pace slows down. You stop white-knuckling your way through life.

Love: The Foundation of Everything

Fear asks, "What will they think of me?"

Love asks, "How can I serve them?"

Fear is self-focused. Love is others-focused. And here's the beautiful thing: when love leads, fear loses its grip.

The love God gives isn't sentimental. It's covenantal. It's the kind of love that stays when things get hard. The kind that doesn't keep score. The kind that flows from knowing you're already loved: completely, permanently, unconditionally.

You can't give what you haven't received. So if you're running on empty, constantly anxious about being enough, you're trying to love from a dry well.

Go back to the source. Let His love fill you first. Then watch how naturally it overflows to others.

A Sound Mind: Clarity Over Chaos

The Greek word here is sophronismos. It means self-control, discipline, and: here's the key: clarity of thought.

Fear scrambles your thinking. It makes small problems look massive. It makes you second-guess everything. It keeps you stuck in analysis paralysis.

A sound mind is the opposite. It's the ability to see clearly, decide wisely, and act calmly: even under pressure.

This isn't something you achieve through willpower. It's a gift. It comes from the Holy Spirit dwelling in you, guiding your thoughts, ordering your steps, giving you peace that passes understanding.

When fear is loud, your mind races.

When the Spirit leads, your mind rests.

The Shift: From External Pressure to Internal Identity

Here's where it gets personal.

Most of us have spent years living under external pressure. Legalism. Performance. Striving. We've been trained: sometimes by well-meaning churches: to believe that God's approval is earned. That His love is conditional. That we have to keep proving ourselves.

That's exhausting. And it's not true.

The shift God offers is from external pressure to internal identity.

You're not trying to become accepted. You already are.

You're not working to earn His love. You already have it.

You're not striving to prove your worth. It's already settled.

When you live from that place: from your identity as His beloved child: the noise of fear loses its power. You stop performing for an audience that was never meant to judge you. You start resting in a Father who already delights in you.

Austin Gardner often says it this way: "Grace is not permission to try harder. It's permission to rest deeper."

A Quieter Way to Live

So what does this look like practically?

It looks like pausing before you react: and asking, "Is this fear talking, or the Spirit?"

It looks like choosing rest over hustle, even when the world tells you to grind harder.

It looks like releasing the need to be understood, approved, or validated by everyone around you.

It looks like trusting that God's quiet voice is more reliable than fear's loud one.

You don't have to live under the weight of fear anymore. You weren't designed for it. God gave you something better: power that sustains, love that anchors, and a mind that stays clear even in the storm.

You're Not Alone in This

If this resonates with you, I want you to know: you're not alone. I've walked this road. I've wrestled with the noise. And I've found that the quieter path is always better.

If you're looking for more encouragement like this, check out The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are . It's a deeper dive into resting in God's unconditional love.

You can also explore more grace-centered content on the W. Austin Gardner blog , or listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast for weekly encouragement.

Stay Connected Across the Ministry Network

Blog Hub: waustingardner.com/blog
Substack: waustingardner.substack.com
Podcast: Followed by Mercy
Alignment Ministries: From Austin's Pen
YouTube: @waustingardner
En Español: guillermoagardner.substack.com

The noise of fear will always try to get your attention. But you have a choice. You can listen to the chaos: or you can lean into the quiet.

God gave you power. He gave you love. He gave you a sound mind.

That's enough. You're enough.

Rest there.

7 Mistakes You're Making with Church Leadership (and How to Fix Them)

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:15:06 GMT

Biblical Insight on Common Church Leadership Mistakes and How to Correct Them

After more than fifty years in ministry, I've made just about every leadership mistake in the book. Some of them twice. And if there's one thing I've learned, it's this: the best leaders aren't the ones who never fail: they're the ones who learn from their failures and keep walking in grace.

Ministry leadership training wasn't a thing when I started out. You learned by doing. By falling flat on your face. By watching godly men and women model servant leadership and hoping some of it rubbed off on you.

Today, I want to share seven common mistakes I see in church leadership: mistakes I've made myself: and the biblical solutions that turned things around. Whether you're a seasoned pastor or just stepping into Christian leadership development, these truths can save you years of heartache.

Mistake #1: Trying to Do It All Alone

This is the classic trap. You feel the weight of the ministry on your shoulders, and you convince yourself that if you don't do it, it won't get done right.

Sound familiar?

Moses felt the same way until his father-in-law Jethro pulled him aside and said, "The thing that thou doest is not good. Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone" (Exodus 18:17-18, KJV).

The Fix: Delegate. Disciple. Trust others. Leadership in the church isn't a solo act: it's a team sport. God never designed you to carry the load alone. Find faithful people, invest in them, and release them to serve.

Mistake #2: Neglecting Your Own Prayer Life

Here's a hard truth: you can be so busy doing things for God that you forget to spend time with God.

Ministry becomes mechanical. Sermons become performances. And before you know it, you're running on fumes.

Jesus modeled something different. Even with crowds pressing in and demands pulling at Him from every direction, He withdrew. "And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed" (Luke 5:16, KJV).

The Fix: Protect your prayer time like your life depends on it: because it does. Your ministry will never rise above your intimacy with the Father. Schedule it. Guard it. And don't feel guilty about it.

Mistake #3: Leading from Performance Instead of Reliance

This one sneaks up on you. You start relying on your gifts, your experience, your charisma: and somewhere along the way, you stop depending on the Holy Spirit.

The Apostle Paul knew better. He wrote, "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God" (2 Corinthians 3:5, KJV).

The Fix: Every morning, surrender your agenda. Ask God what He wants to do through you today. Christian leadership development isn't about becoming more impressive: it's about becoming more dependent.

Mistake #4: Losing the Heart of a Servant

Leadership in the church was never meant to look like the world's version of power. But sometimes, we forget that.

We start caring more about titles than towels. More about platforms than people.

Jesus flipped the script entirely: "But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant" (Matthew 23:11, KJV).

The Fix: Ask yourself regularly: Am I serving, or am I being served? The greatest leaders I've ever known were the ones who showed up early, stayed late, and weren't above cleaning the bathrooms. That's the heart of a shepherd.

Mistake #5: Moving Too Fast Through Change

I get it. You have vision. You see where the church needs to go. And you want to get there yesterday.

But people aren't microwaves. They're crockpots. And if you run over them in your rush to implement change, you'll lose them: and the change will never stick.

The Fix: Communicate the why before the what. Give people time to catch the vision. Walk with them through the transition instead of dragging them through it. Sustainable ministry leadership means honoring people's capacity to grow.

Mistake #6: Operating in Secrecy

Secret meetings breed suspicion. Closed-door decisions create division. And before long, your congregation doesn't trust you: even if your intentions are good.

"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another..." (1 John 1:7, KJV).

The Fix: Transparency builds trust. You don't have to share every detail, but you do need to communicate clearly and consistently. Let people know what's happening and why. The light is always safer than the shadows.

Mistake #7: Forgetting That Mercy Leads

This is the big one. The one that ties everything else together.

When you lead from fear, guilt, or performance pressure, you crush the people you're trying to serve. But when you lead from mercy: when you remember how much grace God has shown you: everything changes.

"It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness" (Lamentations 3:22-23, KJV).

The Fix: Lead the way you've been led: with patience, with kindness, with relentless grace. Your people don't need a perfect leader. They need one who points them to a perfect Savior.

A Resource for Leading Through Grace

If this message resonates with you, I want to recommend a book close to my heart: Pain to Praise

It's a reflection on how God's mercy has chased me through every season of ministry: the victories and the failures, the highs and the lows. I wrote it because I believe the greatest gift you can give your church is a leader who truly understands grace.

When you lead from mercy, your people can breathe. They feel safe. They grow. And that's the kind of ministry leadership training no classroom can teach.

Keep Growing

Friend, if you're hungry for more Christ-centered encouragement for your ministry journey, I'd love to have you explore the full library of resources over at the W. Austin Gardner blog . There's something there for every season of leadership.

You're not alone in this. And you don't have to figure it out by yourself.

Keep walking. Keep learning. Keep leaning into grace.

: W. Austin Gardner

Our Resource Network

Stay connected and keep growing with these resources from Austin Gardner and the ministry team:

The Hub – W. Austin Gardner Blog – Deep dives on grace, leadership, and the Christian life
Austin's Substack ( English) – Weekly encouragement delivered to your inbox
Followed by Mercy – Reflections on God's relentless grace
Alignment Ministries – From Austin's Pen – Articles on ministry and spiritual growth
Guillermo A. Gardner Substack (Español) – Resources for our Spanish-speaking friends

10 Reasons Your Marriage Isn't Working (And How to Save It Biblically)

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:38:14 GMT

Biblical Wisdom for Struggling Marriages, Communication Problems, and Emotional Distance

Let me be honest with you.

After fifty years of ministry: and over fifty years of marriage: I've sat across the table from countless couples who were ready to give up. Tired. Frustrated. Wondering if they'd made the biggest mistake of their lives.

And here's what I've learned: most struggling marriages aren't broken beyond repair. They're just starving.

Starving for grace. Starving for honest communication. Starving for the kind of sacrificial love that only comes when Christ is at the center.

If your marriage feels like it's hanging by a thread today, I want you to know something: there is hope. Not a naive, wishful-thinking kind of hope: but a biblical, battle-tested hope rooted in the God who invented marriage in the first place.

So let's talk about what's really going wrong: and more importantly, how to save your marriage biblically .

1. You've Stopped Fighting For Each Other (And Started Fighting Against Each Other)

Here's a question: When was the last time you saw your spouse as your teammate instead of your opponent?

Many marriages fail because couples start keeping score. Who did the dishes last? Who apologized first? Who sacrificed more?

But Scripture paints a different picture. In Genesis 2:24, God says, "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."

One flesh. Not two scorekeepers. Not adversaries. One.

When you fight against your spouse, you're fighting against yourself. The biblical solution? Stop keeping score and start fighting for the same team.

2. You've Let Communication Die

Here's a hard truth: your spouse cannot read your mind.

I know: it feels like they should. After all these years, shouldn't they just know what you need?

But assumptions kill marriages. Poor communication breeds misunderstanding, resentment, and loneliness: even when you're living under the same roof.

Ephesians 4:29 tells us, "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."

Notice that? Our words should minister grace. Not wound. Not accuse. Not stonewall.

Start talking again. And more importantly: start listening.

3. Selfishness Has Crept In

Marriage is the death of selfishness. Or at least, it's supposed to be.

But we live in a culture that screams, "You deserve to be happy! Put yourself first!" And slowly, subtly, that message seeps into our homes.

The biblical model is radically different. Philippians 2:3-4 says, "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."

Sacrificial love isn't glamorous. It's daily. It's doing the dishes when you're tired. It's apologizing when you'd rather be right. It's choosing your spouse's good over your own comfort.

That's the Jesus way. And it's the only way marriages truly thrive.

4. You've Lost Sight of Christ at the Center

This is the big one.

When God is not at the center of your marriage, everything else slowly falls apart. You start relying on your spouse to meet needs only God can fill. You expect perfection from an imperfect person. And when they fail you: and they will: bitterness takes root.

But when Christ is at the center? Grace flows. Forgiveness becomes possible. Love becomes sustainable.

Ecclesiastes 4:12 reminds us, "And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken."

That third strand is Jesus. Without Him, you're just two broken people trying to hold it together. With Him, you have a foundation that can weather any storm.

5. Unrealistic Expectations Are Crushing You

Did you enter marriage thinking it would complete you? Fix your loneliness? Make all your problems disappear?

Many of us did. And when reality hit: when the honeymoon faded and real life showed up: we felt cheated.

But here's the truth: your spouse was never meant to be your savior. Only Jesus can fill that role.

When you release your spouse from impossible expectations, you free them to love you as they actually can: imperfectly, but genuinely.

6. You've Stopped Pursuing Each Other

Remember when you were dating? The intentionality. The effort. The desire to know everything about them.

What happened?

Life happened. Kids happened. Bills happened. And somewhere along the way, pursuit turned into coexistence.

But marriage requires ongoing pursuit. Song of Solomon is an entire book dedicated to the beauty of romantic love and pursuit within marriage. It's not just for newlyweds: it's for all of us.

Date your spouse again. Pursue them like you're still trying to win their heart. Because in a sense, you are.

7. Unforgiveness Is Poisoning Everything

Refusing to forgive is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.

Every marriage will have wounds. Disappointments. Betrayals big and small. The question is: will you let those wounds fester, or will you let grace do its healing work?

Colossians 3:13 instructs, "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye."

Even as Christ forgave you. That's the standard. Not because your spouse deserves it: but because you've been forgiven far more.

8. Financial Stress Is Tearing You Apart

Money problems are one of the top reasons marriages crumble. Not because money is evil: but because it reveals what we truly trust and value.

Are you fighting about spending? Hiding purchases? Feeling resentful about who earns more?

The biblical solution isn't a budget hack. It's a heart change. When you view everything you have as belonging to God: and steward it together as partners: the grip of financial anxiety loosens.

Seek unity. Make decisions together. And remember: your marriage is worth more than any bank account.

9. You've Let Intimacy Fade

Intimacy isn't just physical: though that matters too. It's emotional. Spiritual. It's the deep knowing and being known that marriage was designed for.

When intimacy fades, loneliness creeps in. And loneliness in marriage is one of the most painful kinds.

Rebuild connection. Talk about your fears. Pray together. Be vulnerable. Physical intimacy often follows emotional and spiritual closeness.

10. You've Given Up on Growth

Here's the final reason: you've stopped growing: individually and together.

A stagnant marriage is a dying marriage. But a marriage where both partners are pursuing Christ, learning, and becoming more like Him? That marriage has an unlimited ceiling.

Keep learning. Keep stretching. Keep inviting God into the broken places.

There Is Hope for Your Marriage

If you've seen yourself in any of these ten reasons, take heart. Recognition is the first step toward restoration.

I've written extensively about how to build a marriage that honors God and brings deep fulfillment. If you're ready to go deeper, I'd love for you to pick up my book, The Ultimate Guide to Building a Healthy and Fulfilling Marriage. It's packed with practical, biblical wisdom from decades of ministry and marriage.

And if you want to explore more about resting in God's unconditional love: which transforms every relationship: check out the full article on The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are over at the Hub.

Your marriage is worth fighting for. And with Christ at the center, the best days can still be ahead.

Ministry Network

The Hub: waustingardner.com/blog
Austin's Substack (English): waustingardner.substack.com
Followed by Mercy: followedbymercy.com
Alignment Ministries (From Austin's Pen): alignmentministries.com/from-austins-pen
Guillermo A. Gardner Substack (Spanish): guillermoagardner.substack.com

The One Truth Every Ministry Leader Needs to Survive

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 14:08:50 GMT

Why believing you are fully loved by God is the difference between lasting leadership and quiet burnout.

Can I be honest with you for a minute?

After fifty years in ministry leadership training, I've watched countless pastors and leaders burn out. Not because they didn't work hard enough. Not because they lacked talent or calling.

They burned out because they never settled the most important question of their lives.

The Question That Changes Everything

Here it is: Do you believe God loves you exactly as you are?

Not the version of you that preaches well on Sunday. Not the version that hits every goal and grows the ministry. Not the future you that finally gets it all together.

You. Right now. With your doubts, your failures, and your secret struggles.

"Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins." : 1 John 4:10 (KJV)

Your leadership is only as strong as your personal security in God's love.

Read that again.

Why This Matters for Your Ministry

When you're not settled in God's unconditional love, you start leading from fear. You perform for approval. You measure your worth by attendance numbers and compliments.

And eventually, you crash.

I've been there. I've walked through seasons where I questioned whether God could still use me. Cancer. COVID. Dark valleys I didn't think I'd survive.

What carried me through wasn't a new ministry strategy. It wasn't pastoral coaching techniques or leadership hacks.

It was finally believing: really believing: that I am accepted, complete, and loved by a God who is love.

You Need a Ministry Mentor Who Gets It

If you're running on empty, trying to prove your worth through performance, I want to invite you to slow down and read something that might change your perspective.

I wrote a full article called "The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly as You Are." It unpacks what Scripture actually says about your identity in Christ and why receiving God's love is the foundation for everything else in your life and ministry.

This isn't theory. This is the truth that has sustained me through five decades of ministry.

Read the full article here →

You don't have to keep striving. You don't have to earn what's already been given.

Take the leap. Believe it. And watch how it transforms the way you lead.

Looking for more resources on ministry leadership training and pastoral coaching? Visit waustingardner.com or let's chat about how I can walk alongside you.

Are You Still Carrying "Wasted Pain"?

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:18:29 GMT

How to Biblically Let Go and Find Freedom

Been thinking about you. Yeah, you. The one who keeps functioning, keeps showing up, keeps smiling when you’re supposed to, then goes home and sits in the quiet and feels that old weight climb back on your shoulders like it never moved out.

And I keep circling this POW story, because it’s not “inspiring,” it’s sickening, it’s human, it’s the kind of thing that makes you say under your breath, no way, no way a person can live through that… and then you find out they did.

He wasn’t talking about “a damp cell” like some paperback description. He talked about the way the damp climbed into his skin until his skin felt wrong, like it didn’t fit, like it was going to split, like it was peeling off his bones one wet layer at a time, and he couldn’t scratch it because his wrists were chained and the iron rubbed the same raw spot again and again until the pain wasn’t even sharp anymore, it was just… there. Constant. Like breathing.

That metal had a smell, too. Not “rust,” not a word. A taste in the back of your throat. He said the chains were heavy enough that when they took them off he still walked like they were there, shoulders forward, steps short, like freedom was too big a step.

And the sound. The spoon. Tin bowl. Every day. Clink. He said you could hear the clink before you could see the food, and your stomach would start doing that desperate tightening thing, and you’d hate yourself for being hungry because hunger makes you feel like an animal, and then you’d hate yourself for hating yourself, and it just kept looping.

Then he got out. Somebody asked him, like it was a casual question at a coffee shop, “Do you still resent what they did to you?”

He didn’t act holy. He didn’t give a speech. He just said, “I don’t have time for wasted pain.”

That line is leadership, whether he meant it that way or not. Its growth. It’s somebody refusing to live under a lid.

And you know about lids. You can love God, you can have gifts, you can have a calling, you can have a heart for people, and still hit the same ceiling over and over because you’re dragging baggage you never put down. Bitterness is a lid. Unforgiveness is a lid. Wounded pride is a lid. It caps your life. It caps your influence. It caps your ability to see clearly and think clean and love wide and lead steady.

I probably shouldn’t say it this way, but some of us are anchored to a corpse. Old junk. Old hurt. Old “they did me wrong” receipts. You can be right about what happened and still be stuck. Being right isn’t the same thing as being free.

And the guts of the matter… wasted pain is a choice to keep paying a debt Jesus already paid. That’s the whole thing. That’s why it’s such a tragedy. You keep handing yesterday your future like a donation.

Right in the middle of my thoughts, I hear it

“Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice”

not later, not when it feels better, put away—and then, same breath, “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” For Christ’s sake. That phrase is the hinge. The forgiveness in you is supposed to come from the forgiveness over you. Not performance. Not “look how mature I am.” Grace. Covenant love. Finished work.

And you can pretend bitterness is contained, but it isn’t. It gets into everything. “Lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.” Many. Not just you. You bring that root into your home, into your team, into your ministry, into your friendships, into your decisions, and you start calling it “discernment,” but it’s really just pain driving in a suit.

Wait, let me back up for a second. You don’t have to deny what happened. Nobody’s asking you to rewrite the past. You just can’t let the past keep writing your future.

Because leading people while you’re bleeding bitterness is like trying to steer a car with one hand on the wheel and the other hand clenched around a knife. You’ll swerve. You’ll cut people who didn’t cut you. You’ll call it “high standards,” but it’s really unhealed hurt.

Justice? Yes. Real question. Real need. But you’re not built to carry vengeance without becoming twisted by it. “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves… Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” God can carry that weight without it turning Him bitter. You can’t. And it keeps going, right there in the same stretch of Scripture—“Recompense to no man evil for evil… If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men… Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” That’s not weakness. That’s a leader refusing to be managed by the last wound.

And the picture that refuses to leave me alone—Jesus, hanging there, and still, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” That’s not a soft man. That’s the strongest man who ever lived. That’s covenant love with blood on it. That’s what finished work sounds like while the pain is still happening.

Now you. Yeah, you again.

You can’t keep dragging the debt around and expect your lid to lift. It won’t. You’ll max out. You’ll plateau. You’ll lead out of fumes and frustration. Your words will get sharper. Your patience is shorter. Your joy thinner. Then you’ll start telling yourself you’re just “busy,” but it’s not busy, it’s bondage.

“This one thing I do” gets lodged in my mind—“forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark…” Press. Reach. Forward. That’s not denial. That’s direction. That’s growth on purpose.

And then Jesus with the blunt mercy: “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” That verse isn’t there to scare you into being nice. It’s there to yank you out of the prison you keep calling “normal.”

New thing? God does new things. “Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing.” Not a patched thing. A new thing. And “all things work together for good to them that love God…” means even that mess, even that betrayal, even that season you still wish you could erase. God isn’t excusing it, He’s redeeming it, and you don’t get to see the redemption while you’re hugging the chain.

When the memory hits you, and it will, you don’t have to write a five-page prayer. You can just drop it. Ugly prayer. Short prayer. “Lord, I’m done paying this. I’m releasing the debt. You said, Vengeance is mine; I will repay. I’m giving it back.”

And if you feel trapped, like the chain is welded on, “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” Indeed. Real. Not pretend.

I’ll say it the plain way. You can’t lead anyone else if you’re a slave to yesterday. You can’t lift people while you’re hauling a corpse. You can’t call others higher while bitterness keeps you under a lid.

So stop wasting your pain. Not because it wasn’t real. Because Christ already paid. And you’ve got too much life left and too many people watching your life to keep living capped.

How to Give to Missions

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 17:30:00 GMT

A wonderful historical story that will teach us a great deal.

The following story takes place sometime back in the 1800’s. It teaches us a great deal as we see how our brothers in Christ handled giving to missions.

The article cites the following quote by Seneca to help understand how these believers made the decisions that follow: 1

“Charitable deeds are oftener owing to caprice, or to the pleasure yielded to the will of the donor, than to considerations of the relief or gratification afforded to the objects of them.” Seneca.

The article also uses the following quote:

“It is proper that alms should come out of a little purse as well as out of a great sack; but surely where there is plenty, charity is a duty, not a courtesy; it is a tribute imposed by Heaven upon us, and he is not a good subject who refuses to pay it.” Feltham.

Three Resolutions

At a missionary meeting held among the negroes in the West Indies, these three resolutions were agreed upon:

We will all give something.

We will all give as God has enabled us.

We will all give willingly.

The Attitude of the Rich Man

As soon as the meeting was over, a leading negro took his seat at the table, with pen and ink, to put down what each came to give. Many came forward and gave, some more and some less. Amongst those that came was a rich old negro, almost as rich as all the others put together, and threw down upon the table a small silver coin.

“Take dat back again,”

said the negro that received the money;

“Dat may be according to de first resolution, but it not according to de second.”

The rich man accordingly took it up, and hobbled back to his seat again in a great rage. One after another came forward, and as almost all gave more than himself, he was fairly ashamed of himself, and again threw down a piece of money on the table, saying,

“Dare! take dat!”

It was a valuable piece of gold; but it was given so ill-temperedly, that the negro answered again,

“No! dat won’t do yet! It may be according to de first and second resolution, but it is not according to de last;”

and he was obliged to take up his coin again. Still angry at himself and all the rest, he sat a long time, till nearly all were gone, and then came up to the table, and with a smile on his face, and very willingly, gave a large sum to the treasurer.

“Very well,” said the negro, “dat will do; dat according to all de resolutions.”

The Lessons to be Learned

Be careful of your attitude when you give.
Be generous and the more you have means you can give more.
We should give with a good attitude and heart for God.
Your giving or generosity tells a lot about who you are. Do you give to be seen? Do you give with strings attached? Do you feel your money entitles you to a certain control?
Too many richer people feel the need to be recognized. They feel their gift entitles them to certain rights over the less fortunate.

Unlocking Potential: The Transformative Power of Coaching

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Maximizing Growth, Overcoming Limits, and Achieving Excellence Through Effective Coaching

Are you struggling to reach your full potential in work, relationships, or personal growth? Maybe you don't even realize what you're missing. That's where a coach can make all the difference. A good coach can help you identify areas for improvement, challenge limiting beliefs, and encourage you to step outside your comfort zone. Coaches provide a fresh perspective, promote self-awareness, and equip you with the tools and strategies you need to reach new heights of success and fulfillment. If you're still not convinced, consider the words of Bill Gates, who said, "Everyone needs a coach." Whether you're a basketball player, tennis player, or even a bridge player, the right coach can help you achieve more than you ever thought possible. So why exactly does everyone need a coach? Let's explore.

Why everyone needs a coach!

Coaches help you identify areas for improvement that you may be unaware of, allowing you to recognize and address your weaknesses.
Coaches provide an outside perspective to identify and challenge limiting beliefs holding you back, pushing you beyond self-imposed limitations to reach your full potential.
Coaching challenges you to step outside your comfort zone through powerful questioning and accountability, promoting continual learning and preventing stagnation.
Through insightful queries, coaches foster self-awareness and personal growth, enhancing self-understanding.
Coaches help you discover and leverage your untapped strengths, talents, and unique gifts, aligning your work with your passions and abilities.
Coaching keeps you accountable to your goals and commitments, providing encouragement and an objective voice when motivation wanes or complacency arises.
Coaches offer an unbiased, fresh perspective, allowing you to see situations from new angles and gain insights you may have missed.
Coaching provides a safe space to process challenges confidentially, reframing unhelpful thought patterns and promoting emotional health, authenticity, and vulnerability.
Coaches equip you with time management, prioritization, and productivity strategies, helping you avoid overwhelm and manage stress and anxiety effectively.
Ultimately, coaching helps you envision and unlock your full potential for growth and excellence, inspiring you to reach new heights you may not have imagined possible.

Great Quotes about Coaching

"Everyone needs a coach. It doesn't matter whether you're a basketball player, a tennis player, a gymnast, or a bridge player." Bill Gates

"A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life." John Wooden

"A coach is someone who tells you what you don't want to hear, who has you see what you don't want to see, so you can be who you have always known you could be." Tom Landry

"Coaching is unlocking a person's potential to maximize their own performance. It is helping them to learn rather than teaching them." John Whitmore

"The art of coaching is taking a player where he can't take himself." Bill McCartney

"The role of a coach is to help people discover their own brilliance." - Michael Neill

"Coaching is the process of equipping people with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to develop themselves and become more effective." Peter Hawkins

"Coaching is the process of enabling others to achieve their goals by tapping into their own resources." Myles Downey

"A great coach will convince you that you can do more than you think possible." Barb Mayer

How Can a Coach Help Me?

Help you navigate challenges, decisions, and uncertainties related to ministry work.
Help clarify the desired outcomes and create actionable steps to reach those goals.
Encourage during challenging times, fostering resilience and motivation.
Explore solutions, seek advice, and process emotions openly.
Address burnout prevention and self-care strategies.
Explore their core values and align them with ministry work.
Help set clear and achievable goals for personal, spiritual, and professional growth.
Listen attentively to understand the unique context, challenges, and aspirations of the person they're coaching.
Ask thought-provoking questions that encourage self-reflection and insight.
They are instilling confidence and resilience in the face of challenges.

Coaching can be the catalyst for unlocking your full potential, helping you achieve your goals, and pushing you past self-imposed limitations. The insight, support, and accountability provided by a coach can make a significant difference in your personal and professional life. So, whether you're seeking to excel in your career, overcome personal obstacles, or simply grow as an individual, consider reaching out to a coach who can guide you on your journey to success. As John Wooden once said, "A great coach can change a life." With the right coach by your side, the possibilities for growth and achievement are endless.

Trust and Control as a Leader

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 16:00:03 GMT

We need policies and control mechanisms but must learn not to rely on them exclusively. They undermine the very essence of a thriving workplace.

I came across a valuable insight shared by Craig Groeschel on his "Leadership Podcast." “the bigger problem, when you don't value, trust and empower the leaders around you, either they don't grow or they don't stay. This is crazy important. I wanna say it again. Anytime you overestimate your own importance, you unintentionally undervalue the leaders around you. And if you don't trust them, empower them, believe in them, then they don't have the ability to expand their capacity or they do not stay with you.”

Now, let's consider the implications of being overly rigid with rules within our team. Such strict adherence can stifle the creativity and innovation that our team could otherwise explore, driven by fear of harsh consequences. This inevitably affects morale, creating an environment where team members feel micromanaged and restricted. The result is diminished enthusiasm, lower job satisfaction, and decreased commitment and productivity.

Trust, on the other hand, fosters meaningful contributions and a sense of ownership among team members. However, when trust is lacking, the sense of responsibility declines, and policies start to feel like additional layers of control, hindering growth.

A workplace void of trust cultivates suspicion, leading to a decline in teamwork. This inadvertently gives rise to a culture of fear, impacting communication and problem-solving capabilities.

When the team perceives a lack of trust, disengagement becomes a prevalent issue. Compliance may occur, but genuine commitment to the organization wanes. The rules are enforced, but the organization finds itself investing more time and energy in policy enforcement than in growth and achieving its original purposes.

Policies are essential tools in any organization, but they should complement trust rather than replace it. A thriving organization is one where both the team and the organization itself flourish, not one where they merely survive.

Becoming All Things to All Men

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 15:45:00 GMT

Navigating the World with an Open Heart and a Servant's Spirit

Adapting to a culture is about showing respect, love, and humility. It means understanding that every part of a culture, even its food, is crucial. When you say no to the food, you’re saying no to the people and their entire way of life. Think about the idea from the Bible about being all things to all people; this article encourages everyone to have a mindset of humility, servanthood, and not thinking they’re better than another culture.

Food is more than just something to eat; it represents a culture’s history, traditions, and identity. Turning down the food from a culture is like turning down a part of who they are. It sends a message that you don’t value their customs, values, and the people who share their culinary heritage. It’s understanding that when you eat the local food, you’re not just getting nourishment; you’re taking part in a deep cultural exchange, a symbol of unity and acceptance

The Bible talks about becoming all things to all people in 1 Corinthians 9:22. This means adapting to different cultures on purpose. It’s a call to break down cultural barriers, connect with people on a deeper level, and share the love and message of Jesus.

Adapting to a culture is more than just making surface-level changes; it’s about genuinely trying to understand the thoughts and feelings of the people. Being all things to all people means immersing yourself in their way of life, being willing to put aside your preferences to build bridges of understanding and compassion.

Being a servant to another culture is the best way to adapt. Living not to please yourself but to respect and honor others requires humility and a commitment to prioritizing the needs of others over your own preferences. This creates an environment of mutual respect and opens doors for meaningful connections.

As a servant to the culture you’re adapting to, you need to listen more than you talk, observe more than you insist, and show genuine care and understanding. A servant’s heart aims to build bridges, break down walls that divide, and create an atmosphere where love can thrive.

Language is like a key that opens the door to a culture’s soul. Learning the local language is an investment in genuine communication, showing a genuine desire to connect with people on their terms. Language isn’t just about words; it’s about understanding the subtle details, sayings, and expressions that reveal the heart of a culture.

When you speak the local language, even if you’re not perfect, it shows deep respect and commitment. It helps bridge gaps, tear down communication barriers, and encourages real dialogue, creating connections that go beyond differences in language.

Everything mentioned in this article requires humility – rejecting any idea that one culture is better than another. No culture is superior, and when you accept this truth, you open the door to real understanding and appreciation.

A humble approach to adapting to a culture involves always reflecting on yourself, being open to correction, and genuinely wanting to learn and grow. It’s an ongoing journey of letting go of preconceived ideas and embracing the richness that comes from understanding and learning from various cultural perspectives.

Adapting to another culture weaves unity, love, and understanding. Becoming all things to all people, having a servant’s heart, learning the language, and rejecting any sense of cultural superiority are the building blocks of a mindset that encourages genuine connections.

Adapting to a culture is a step towards following the Bible’s call to become all things to all people and creating a world where love, respect, and understanding form the basis of long-lasting relationships.

What to do when everything goes wrong!

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sat, 08 Jun 2024 15:45:00 GMT

Your friends have left you. All earthly possessions are gone. Those you thought love you want you dead. What do you do?

1Samuel 30:6 And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.

Nothing is going right for David. The Philistines have mounted an attack against Israel and he is with the Philistines. The Philistines do not trust him. He has to be worried about what is going to happen to his men and him. King Achish sends him away. He returns to his hometown of Ziklag to find it destroyed by fire and all of his people (over 200 of them) and his wives taken captives.

His own loyal men talk of stoning him. David is alone, no friends. He has lost all of our stuff. He is on the run for his life. The only friends he has in the world want to kill him.

David encouraged himself in the Lord. He goes alone with God. He lays out his complaint. Philippians 4:6-7. He surely complained to the Lord. He told Him of his situation. Somewhere in the middle of his prayer time, David felt better. He had to feel better by faith because the only thing that would have changed would have been what God did in his heart.

I am sure that he realized God is a God who hears and answers prayer. Psalm 66:20. David gives God his petition. He begs God to work. He believes God Hebrews 11:6. David thanks God. Then the peace of God floods over his soul because he knows God has heard his prayers and will answer.

He then controls his thoughts and thinks only of the truth that he finds in the Bible. Philippians 4:8.

Do you see the application to your life? Everything can go wrong. Nothing seems to be right. It would appear that God Himself has left. At least, that is what Satan would have you think.

The challenge for you today is to get into your Bible and prayer. You can encourage yourself in the Lord. I know I have proven that He is there. You can survive and more than that you can thrive.

I challenge you right now to encourage yourself in the Lord. Take your requests and make them known to God. Beg Him to work in your life. Thank Him already for the answer that He is going to give. Then get up convinced that the God of Heaven has heard and will answer your prayers and meet your needs.

David got up. He called for the priests and said, ask God what He wants me to do. I will do it. God gave Him the victory just like He will do for you. When everything goes wrong, then it is time to encourage yourself in the Lord.

Cultivating Thankfulness

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 15:30:00 GMT

Appreciating Your Past, Present, and Future

Take the time to count your blessings, remember where God brought you from and through, and appreciate what you have. In Biblical terms, learn to be content.

Gratefulness doesn't come naturally but has to be cultivated. Humans are born selfish. We do not naturally even thank God, who created and gave us life and all we have.

How about looking back over your life and considering all the challenges you have overcome, the milestones you have achieved, and all the moments of unexpected joy? Think back on your past and see the hand of God in so many things that happened. As the old hymn says, “Count your many blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done.”

Consider keeping a gratitude journal where you jot down moments of thankfulness. This simple reflection can shift your focus from what you lack to the abundance in your life.

Don't be so focused on today, and all you have to do that. You forget where God has brought you from and through. You won the impossible battles. God did great things.

You were on the wrong track and, by grace, found your way back. You wondered if it would ever happen, but it did. God moved.

Gratitude is not just about looking back; it's about appreciating the present moment. In pursuing goals and aspirations, it's easy to overlook the blessings surrounding us daily. Learning to feel gratitude involves consciously recognizing and appreciating what you have now.

If you think about it, you might see that God is at work right now in your life. Appreciate the little things, the prayers answered, and the needs met.

Gratitude flourishes when we become mindful of the present and recognize the goodness in our lives.

Be content with what you have and where you are. Appreciate the blessings. Be satisfied with what you have. Contentment is the key to lasting gratitude.

In a world that often urges us to chase more, cultivating contentment involves a shift in perspective. It's about finding joy in simplicity, appreciating the beauty of the present moment, and recognizing that true wealth lies in the richness of relationships and experiences.

Gratitude will lift you up and let you really live. Take these steps to grow a grateful heart. As you count your blessings, you'll discover that true wealth is not measured in possessions but in the depth of appreciation for the abundant grace surrounding you. So, take the time to cultivate gratitude – it's a journey well worth the effort.

Culture Lessons Learned

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 14:30:00 GMT

Starting in Mexico and continuing till today

Learning and adapting to a new culture does things that nothing else can do for you. It unlocks doors to a world of wealth. You learn that no culture is superior to another.

Thinking you or your culture is superior will significantly hinder growth or acceptance into a new culture. Take a dose of humility. Realize that you nor your country have a monopoly on wisdom or correctness. We can live in mutual respect. You will make tremendous friends that last a lifetime.

For years, I have taught that we all look the same if you peel people. You will find wonderful people if you can get by skin color, language, and cultural differences. We can connect.

Mexico and Alberto Romero radically changed my life. I made new friends. I learned what living in another culture was like. I made mistakes. I hurt feelings. I acted superior, but I grew with their patient love and help, and we built a friendship that has spanned the globe for nearly 40 years.

Differences sometimes help us learn, grow, understand, and make lasting friendships.

Adapting is a lifelong process. It is not a one-and-done life change. The keyword for adapting is more than flexible. It is fluid. You have to step out of your comfort zone. You have to take risks.

There is a culture in front of you that will make you much more wealthy. You will learn, grow, and love like you never thought possible.

Remember, people are people. You are more alike than different. Be humble. Leave your previous life behind. Become bicultural, a new person. Be more than a tourist or a visitor; instead, be an integral part of life.

Expressing Gratitude

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 14:30:00 GMT

Gratitude, a sentiment often tucked away in the recesses of our hearts, possesses the transformative power to enrich not only our lives but also the lives of those around us.

Expressed gratitude serves as a language of its own, forging bonds, and reinforcing the positive energy between individuals. Sharing our thanks openly not only validates our feelings but also cultivates a culture of appreciation that can ripple through relationships and communities.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to overlook the multitude of blessings bestowed upon us. The people, experiences, and circumstances that have shaped our journey often go unnoticed. Yet, gratitude invites us to pause, reflect, and count our blessings with a heart full of appreciation.

Consider the individuals whom God has strategically placed in your life to mold you into the person you are today. Friends, family, mentors, and even acquaintances contribute to the intricate tapestry of our identities. Expressing gratitude becomes a way of acknowledging not just the blessings we've received but also the divine orchestration that brought these blessings into our lives.

Expressing gratitude aloud is more than a social nicety; it's a powerful tool for fostering connection and spreading positivity. When we take the time to articulate our thanks, we not only honor the recipient but also elevate the shared experience.

Consider the friend who offered a timely word of encouragement, the teacher who inspired a love for learning, or the family member whose unwavering support shaped your resilience. Take a moment to express your heartfelt gratitude. Share the impact these individuals have had on your life, and watch as your words become a beacon of affirmation, strengthening the bonds that connect you.

Words can’t express what a wonderful day we had on Thursday saying thank you to the Romeros and then to Hermana Luisa. God used them greatly in our lives helping us learn Spanish and the culture. All the years since would have been impossible without the privilege os seeing them.

Journey to Fluency: How Language Schools Bring Structure and Discipline to Language Learning

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 14:12:46 GMT

In January of 1987 Betty, the kids, and I arrived in Querétaro, Mexico to study Spanish. I literally didn’t know ten words.

I am forever indebted to Georgia, Hermana Luisa, Webb for the language institute she ran for many years. She was strict. She pushed hard.

Betty cried on more than one occasion. Without the challenge I know that I never would have learned the language. The language school gave me structure, discipline, help learning what to do next.

Read the rest of the letter then go watch this video the BBF did of Miss Webb.

When you get this letter, Lord willing, Betty and I will be in Mexico and we will be visiting this wonderful godly lady. I thought of this lady often over the years. I remembered how hard she had been on me. I remembered being tortured it seemed but I survived Hermana Luisa and she made me a thriving missionary.

Thank you Hermana Luisa for helping a red neck Tennessee hillbilly learn enough Spanish to do some ministry. God bless you.

So know that language school might be very beneficial for you.

Efficient Resource Utilization: Organized lesson plans and materials ensure learners make the most of their study time, covering essential language elements in a coherent manner.
Clear Learning Objectives: Well-organized courses outline clear learning objectives, helping learners understand what to expect and what is expected of them.
Resource Accessibility: Organized language schools provide learners with easy access to a variety of resources, including textbooks, multimedia materials, and language software.

Empowering Global Evangelism: Celebrating Joy, Legacy, and Contribution in Missionary Work

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 08:00:01 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Global evangelism is an expansive and deeply emotional endeavor, touching on the very essence of faith and human connection. This latest podcast episode delves into the powerful stories and the inherent joy that comes from sharing the transformative message of Jesus Christ across the world. The discussion starts with a reflection on the biblical narrative of God's love, which forms the foundation for the desire to engage in missionary work. Genesis 9:17 is cited to emphasize God's covenant with all flesh, highlighting the inclusivity and far-reaching nature of His love and the call to evangelism.

The conversation then shifts to a celebration of Georgia Webb's inspiring legacy. Webb's contribution to missionary work, particularly in teaching Spanish to missionaries, has empowered hundreds to spread the gospel globally. Her story is a powerful testament to the impact that one individual can have, and serves as an encouragement to all, especially single women, who feel called to this sacred work. The message is clear: everyone has a role to play, and there are no barriers to what God can achieve through a willing heart.

Further exploration is given to the challenges faced by missionaries. It is an honest look at the pressures to produce results and the importance of remembering that the process of sowing seeds is as valuable as the harvest. Missionaries are reminded that their role is to share the good news with love and let God do the rest. The episode offers guidance to both missionaries and their supporters, urging supporters to pray rather than pressure, fostering a healthy environment for God's work to flourish.

In addition to these profound stories and insights, the episode features Bridgette Young, author of "Lost in the Gray," who provides a deeply personal testimony. Young's narrative addresses the complexities of faith and life's difficult decisions, and how these experiences intertwine with the mission of evangelism. Her testimony is a powerful reminder of the real-life challenges that individuals face and how faith can guide and support them through the darkest times.

As the episode concludes, there is a call to action for listeners to engage with global evangelism in whatever way they can, whether through giving, going, or prayer. The underlying message is one of unity and collaboration, with the shared goal of spreading the gospel and the love of God to every corner of the earth. Listeners are invited to contribute their own stories and insights, further enriching the global conversation around faith and missionary work.

The episode is a powerful reminder that global evangelism is not just about converting others; it is about celebrating the love of God and sharing the joy that comes from knowing Him. It is about building a legacy of faith that transcends time and geography, inspiring future generations to continue the work. Above all, it is about the collective contribution to a mission that is greater than any one individual, fueled by the unending love of God.

The Echoes of Loss A Mother's Testament to Faith and Recovery

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 14:15:00 GMT

Hear Bridgette's cry

Her story begins with the heartache of losing two children to ectopic pregnancies, a medical condition that not only threatens the life of the unborn but also poses a significant danger to the mother. This loss led Bridgette down a path of anger and questioning towards God—a journey that many can relate to in times of profound suffering. Yet, it is in this storm of emotions that Bridgette found a way to anchor herself through her faith and the therapeutic process, despite her initial resistance.

Bridgette candidly shares the impact of her grief on her family dynamics, particularly the challenges of maintaining normalcy for her daughter Willow while wrestling with her own emotional turmoil. The episode paints a poignant picture of a mother trying to shield her child from pain while grappling with depression. It is through these candid moments that Bridgette underscores the importance of vulnerability and support within the family unit, which ultimately led to a strengthened marital relationship and more open communication about loss.

The podcast episode bravely confronts the stigma surrounding therapy and counseling within the Christian community. Bridgette and the host, Austin Gardner, delve into the transformative power of professional guidance and the harmful misconceptions that often deter individuals from seeking the help they need. Bridgette's story becomes a testament to the idea that therapy can coexist with faith, and that both can play an essential role in navigating the complexities of grief.

The creation of a grief journal is highlighted as a tool for processing emotions and finding solace. This journal serves as an invitation for listeners to embrace their emotional wellbeing and to find strength in the journey towards healing. Bridgette's narrative culminates in an encouraging message of hope and the promise that, even in the depths of loss, there is a path to recovery that is illuminated by faith, love, and the support of others.

Throughout the podcast, listeners are given an intimate look into the struggles and victories of a mother who has faced life's most daunting storms. Bridgette's story is not just one of survival, but of triumph—a beacon of hope for those navigating the murky waters of grief. By sharing her experiences, Bridgette extends a lifeline to others, offering guidance, understanding, and the reassurance that they are not alone in their journey.

The episode serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the healing that can come from faith and professional help. It is a conversation that is both necessary and timely, providing a space for healing and reflection for anyone who has faced similar trials.

Heeding the Call of Global Evangelism Through History

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:00:02 GMT

Pray for India and China

We trace the biblical foundation of world evangelism, rooted in the universal love of God. Our exploration takes us to Genesis 12, where God calls Abram to be a blessing, illustrating that the Jewish nation was chosen not to claim superiority but to spread God's message. The Scriptures, the church, and the Messiah—all given through the Jewish people—laid the groundwork for a mission transcending all boundaries.

Delving into the annals of missionary history, we encounter Bill Wallace, a medical missionary in China whose life of dedication and sacrifice left an indelible mark on the world. His story, as captured in "Bill Wallace of China" by Jesse C. Fletcher, has personally inspired me and countless others in the pursuit of serving and evangelizing.

Turning our gaze to the vibrant lands of India, we see a country teeming with potential for Christian outreach. The longing for the youth to rise with passion for missionary work is palpable. It's here we realize the magnitude of the task ahead and the critical need to prepare the next generation for this great endeavor.

Bridgette Young's narrative of steadfast service in Colombia, despite personal trials, stands as a testament to the resilience of faith. Her story compels us to support and engage with the broader mission, as we strive to equip and empower future missionaries.

This episode serves as a clarion call to action. It's an encouragement for the church to mobilize, a reminder of the hope we hold in Christ's return, and an exploration of the urgency with which the gospel must reach the furthest corners of the earth.

As we honor those who have paved the way for world evangelism, let us recommit to glorifying God through our collective efforts. We stand united in a tapestry of faith, uniting generations in the Christian mission to spread the good news. This podcast is not just a recounting of history; it's an invitation to participate in the unfolding story of faith that continues to shape our world today.

Grief's Silent Struggle and the Missionary Heart with Bridgette Young

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 14:00:11 GMT

Help Bridgette help others

Bridgette's experience is one that resonates with many, yet often remains cloaked in silence. Her openness about the pain of losing a child, grappling with depression, and the strain on marital relationships lays bare the raw and real aspects of grief. But her story doesn't end there. It also shines a light on the importance of community, professional help, and the unwavering embrace of faith that can lead one out of the depths of despair.

As the conversation unfolds, the podcast extends beyond storytelling, offering practical advice for comforting the grieving. Bridgette's insights into simple acts of kindness, like providing meals and offering a listening ear, are a testament to the profound impact of empathy and understanding. Her second book, "My Grief Journal," further aids those on their path to healing, emphasizing the significance of processing emotions in a healthy way that's grounded in scripture.

The episode culminates with a powerful message of collective prayer and hope, inviting listeners to join in a journey towards solace and inspiration. This isn't just Bridgette's story—it's a story shared by many, and through the power of shared narratives, there's a promise of uplifting and empowering those who feel alone in their grief.

The blog post aims to explore the multifaceted nature of grief as experienced by Bridgette, and the ways in which faith, community, and personal growth can emerge from the most painful of circumstances. By discussing the delicate topics of infant loss and infertility, this post seeks to bring awareness and offer support to those silently suffering, while also providing a guide for others to offer meaningful support.

In the depths of sorrow, there is a melody of hope that resonates. Bridgette's courage to share her journey reminds us all of the transformative power of shared stories and the unbreakable human spirit. Through faith and the love of a community, healing is possible, and the World Evangelism Podcast serves as a platform for this vital message to be heard. Tune in to this episode to be a part of a conversation that could change lives and bring solace to many.

The Missionary Impulse from Creation and Beyond

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 13:45:00 GMT

You are invited to subscribe to the World Evangelism Podcast

The World Evangelism Podcast, hosted by Austin Gardner, has embarked on an insightful journey to reveal the missionary essence deeply rooted within the Bible, starting with Genesis 1:1. In its inaugural episode, the podcast delves into this verse, widely recognized as the foundation of Christian faith, and discusses its significant implications for global missionary work. It's here that we find not just the beginning of all creation, but also the compelling directive for believers to spread the Gospel across the earth.

Genesis 1:1 is more than just a historical account; it's a declaration of God's sovereign authority over the universe He created. This authority forms the basis for the Christian calling to evangelize—to share the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ. As the podcast elucidates, if God is the creator, then He also has the rightful authority to commission His people to proclaim His love and grace to all nations.

In addition to theological insights, the episode takes a poignant turn by focusing on the spiritual needs of China, a nation with a vast population and a complex cultural landscape. Despite its rapid modernization and historical richness, China presents a challenging frontier for Christian ministry. Listeners are encouraged to engage in prayer for the spiritual awakening of this influential country, recognizing the scarcity of the Christian witness there.

Moreover, the podcast honors the remarkable life and contributions of George Liele, an African-American figure who embodies the transformative impact of the Christian faith. Liele, a former slave who became the first American missionary abroad, set an example of courage and faithfulness that continues to inspire. The podcast recommends the book "Free Indeed" by Mark Sidwell, which sheds light on Liele's life and the lives of other African-American Christian heroes who have made significant contributions to the spread of Christianity.

The episode serves as a call to action, urging believers to deepen their understanding of the scriptural mandate for world evangelism and to engage in the work of sharing the gospel globally. It highlights the necessity of prayer, the study of Scripture, and the recognition of historical figures who have blazed trails for future missionaries.<br><br>In this weekly podcast, Austin Gardner aims to stir the hearts of listeners for global missions—one verse, one prayer, and one hero at a time. Through discussions on key Bible verses, prayer focus on specific countries, and the exploration of Christian history, the World Evangelism Podcast seeks to empower and inspire leaders and believers alike to take an active role in fulfilling the Great Commission.

Listeners are left with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear call to action: to participate in God's redemptive plan for the world by engaging in world evangelism, interceding for nations like China, and learning from the legacy of faithful servants like George Liele. The World Evangelism Podcast is more than just a series of discussions; it's a rallying cry for the church to unite in its missionary calling.

Beyond Language Lessons

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 13:03:38 GMT

The Essential Guide to Choosing the Perfect Language Mentor

Preparing to learn a new language is thrilling, but the path can only be daunting with the right guide. Enter the unsung hero of language acquisition – the language mentor, friend, or buddy who becomes an invaluable companion in your linguistic expedition.

The Importance of a Language Mentor

Learning a language is more than language school, memorizing vocabulary and mastering grammar rules; it's about immersing yourself in a new culture and grasping the nuances that textbooks often miss. A language mentor serves as your bridge to this cultural exploration, offering insights beyond the confines of language lessons.

Understanding some English but Not Using You for Practice

One of the critical attributes of an effective language mentor is the ability to understand a little English without using it as a crutch during your language learning sessions. This ensures that your mentor creates an environment where you can fully immerse yourself in the target language without the temptation of reverting to English. The goal is to communicate in the language you're learning, fostering a more authentic and immersive experience. Your mentor knowing English is optional.

Clear and Articulate Speech

Effective communication requires clear and articulate speech. A language mentor who speaks with clarity helps you develop a keen ear for pronunciation and intonation. This not only aids in better understanding spoken language but also cultivates your ability to express yourself clearly and coherently.

Honesty and Openness, Willing to Correct

A valuable language mentor is someone who embraces honesty and openness. They are not afraid to correct your mistakes but do so in a constructive and supportive manner. Constructive feedback is a cornerstone of language development, helping you refine your skills and grow in confidence.

Helping, Not Teaching

The distinction between "helping" and "teaching" is subtle but significant. A language mentor is not there to lecture or impose knowledge; they guide and assist you in your language journey. This collaborative approach fosters shared learning, making the process more engaging and enjoyable.

Cultural Insight

Language and culture are inseparable. A language mentor who understands the culture enriches your learning experience by providing context to expressions, traditions, and social nuances. This cultural insight deepens your language understanding and enhances your ability to communicate effectively.

In essence, a language mentor is your personal language sherpa, guiding you through the peaks and valleys of language acquisition. With the right mentor by your side – who speaks with clarity, offers honest feedback, assists rather than teaches, and brings cultural insight – your language learning journey becomes not just educational but an immersive adventure into a new world of communication and connection. Embrace the mentorship, and watch the doors to linguistic fluency swing wide open.

All of the above is so very true of my friend Alberto Romero. We rented his house when we arrived in Queretaro, Mexico. I went to his place of business to try and develop a friendship. The year we lived in Mexico, 1987, I probably spent 40 hours a week with Alberto. He taught me more than any language school could ever have taught. He has been a friend since those days.

I had no language ability, which was attested to in high school, college, and then the language school when we arrived there. Thanks to Alberto, I learned more than survived; I thrived in language school.

Thank you, Alberto. You were a gift from God to me. Anything that God allowed me to do in Spanish is, to a great extent, thanks to your friendship and investment.

How to be a genuine friend

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 10:00:00 GMT

Here are some simple things that make a genuine friend:

1. Show Up:

Being a friend means being there, not just physically, but paying attention. A true friend is there to share the moment when things are good or bad.

2. Listen Well:

Good friends don’t just hear you; they really listen. They care about your words and want to understand your thoughts and feelings.

3. Celebrate Each Other:

Friends should be happy for each other. When your friend succeeds, you should cheer them on, not be jealous. Real friends make each other’s victories even sweeter.

4. Handle Problems Together:

Friendships aren’t always easy, but a loyal friend works through challenges with you. They want to fix problems and keep the bond strong.

5. Forgive and Forget:

Friends mess up sometimes, but holding grudges doesn’t help. Real friends forgive and move on, understanding that everyone makes mistakes.

6. Be Trustworthy:

Trust is super important in friendships. A good friend keeps their promises, sticks to their commitments, and stands by you when things get tough.

7. Give Encouragement:

Friends should lift each other. When feeling down, a genuine friend encourages and helps you see your strengths.

Let’s be the kind of friends who make life's journey a bit more awesome for everyone!

World Evangelism Podcast

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Come join the journey and help promote the cause of World Evangelism in your church, your family, and around the world.

My desire is to add value to you and your ministry. I want to help you as you seek to fulfill what God has called you to do for the honor and glory of the Lord Jesus Christ. Our goal is to ignite passion and inspire action, motivating listeners to engage in world evangelism through prayer, giving, training, and going.

The very first podcast: The Missionary Impulse from Creation and Beyond

The second World Evangelism Podcast : Heeding the Call of Global Evangelism Through History

The echoes of Abram's journey still resound today, as we continue to heed the call to evangelize nations. In this episode, we reflect on the enduring legacy that began with a man called to be a blessing to all nations, and how this has shaped our global mission to spread the transformative love of Jesus Christ.

We trace the biblical foundation of world evangelism, rooted in the universal love of God. Our exploration takes us to Genesis 12, where God calls Abram to be a blessing, illustrating that the Jewish nation was chosen not to claim superiority but to spread God's message. The Scriptures, the church, and the Messiah—all given through the Jewish people—laid the groundwork for a mission transcending all boundaries.

First ever World Evangelism Special Edition : Grief's Silent Struggle and the Missionary Heart with Bridgette Young

Navigating through the stormy seas of loss and grief, Bridgette stands as a beacon of resilience and faith. Her story, intricately woven into the fabric of the World Evangelism Podcast, brings a message of hope and healing to those facing similar battles. In an episode that promises to be both heart-wrenching and uplifting, host Austin Gardner and Bridgette delve into the poignant narrative of infant loss and the silent struggle with infertility—a journey Bridgette has chronicled in her book, "Lost in the Gray."

Bridgette's experience is one that resonates with many, yet often remains cloaked in silence. Her openness about the pain of losing a child, grappling with depression, and the strain on marital relationships lays bare the raw and real aspects of grief. But her story doesn't end there. It also shines a light on the importance of community, professional help, and the unwavering embrace of faith that can lead one out of the depths of despair.

Second World Evangelism Podcast Special Edition: The Echoes of Loss A Mother's Testament to Faith and Recovery

In a deeply touching and profoundly insightful episode of the World Evangelism Podcast, Bridgette Young, a mother who has traversed the harrowing landscape of loss, opens up about her experiences with ectopic pregnancies and the ensuing grief that almost consumed her. Bridgette's narrative is one that mirrors the trials of biblical figures such as Joseph and Moses, and it resonates with anyone who has faced the wilderness of sorrow.

Her story begins with the heartache of losing two children to ectopic pregnancies, a medical condition that not only threatens the life of the unborn but also poses a significant danger to the mother. This loss led Bridgette down a path of anger and questioning towards God—a journey that many can relate to in times of profound suffering. Yet, it is in this storm of emotions that Bridgette found a way to anchor herself through her faith and the therapeutic process, despite her initial resistance.

World Evangelism Podcast 1 Gen 1:1, George Liele, China

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 12:00:00 GMT

W. Austin Gardner welcomes you to the first episode of the World Evangelism Podcast. I hope you will subscribe, like, and share with others.

Today, we discussed Genesis 1:1 as a motivation for world evangelism. God created, so He has every right to command that the gospel be preached to His world.

We pray for China and ask you to pray. For more information, go to Operation World.

Sign up for the daily email to pray for the country of the day.

Also, learn more about China here.

You are encouraged to get your copy of the book where I was introduced to George Liele.

I invite you to sign up for weekday emails from my writing here .

Subscribe to my Austin Gardner YouTube channel as well.

Heeding the Call of Global Evangelism Through History

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 20:07:18 GMT

World Evangelism Podcast #2

The echoes of Abram's journey still resound today as we continue to heed the call to evangelize nations. In this episode, we reflect on the enduring legacy that began with a man called to be a blessing to all nations and how this has shaped our global mission to spread the transformative love of Jesus Christ.

We trace the biblical foundation of world evangelism, rooted in the universal love of God. Our exploration takes us to Genesis 12, where God calls Abram a blessing, illustrating that the Jewish nation was chosen not to claim superiority but to spread God's message. The Scriptures, the church, and the Messiah—all given through the Jewish people—laid the groundwork for a mission transcending all boundaries.

Turning our gaze to the vibrant lands of India, we see a country teeming with potential for Christian outreach. The longing for the youth to rise with passion for missionary work is palpable. Here, we realize the magnitude of the task ahead and the critical need to prepare the next generation for this great endeavor.

Bridgette Young's narrative of steadfast service in Colombia, despite personal trials, stands as a testament to the resilience of faith. Her story compels us to support and engage with the broader mission as we strive to equip and empower future missionaries.

This episode is a call to action. It's an encouragement for the church to mobilize, a reminder of the hope we hold in Christ's return, and an exploration of the urgency with which the gospel must reach the furthest corners of the earth.

Making and Keeping Good Friendships. We have to be deliberate about it.

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 13:30:00 GMT

First, try to be intentional in what you say and do. Think before you act, and don't let your emotions take over. It's something I've struggled with too. Life can get tough, and if we're not ready, we might end up doing stuff we regret later.

Next up, put your friendships at the top of your list. Take the time to build and care for them on purpose. When your friendships are super important to you, you'll naturally want the best for your friends, and that can help you avoid feeling bad about things later.

Now, don't judge your friends every day like you're checking the stock market. See them for who they are, without jumping to quick conclusions. Everyone has off days, so don't let those get in the way of your friendships.

Also, work on being the best version of yourself in each friendship. Spend time and effort on being a good friend, so you don't have regrets later.

Last but not least, treat every moment with your friends like it's special. Life goes by fast, and you can't get those moments back. So, enjoy every bit of your friendships, and you won't have to look back with regret.

Follow these tips, and you'll be on your way to having strong and meaningful friendships. Keep it real, and remember to be a good friend!

Never Compromise You are not for sale

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 13:15:04 GMT

Your character shows when faced with doing something wrong, as many quickly give in to the temptation to compromise. This applies to politicians, preachers, and others, with some selling out for more and others settling for less.

This tendency starts in childhood. If parents don't teach children that there are consequences for doing wrong and don't hold them accountable, children might resort to doing wrong to get what they want. Tantrums might receive rewards, and parents might consider saying "no" to them as cute. Later, they say “no” to teachers, “no” to Sunday School workers, “no” to the law, and even “no” to God. This might lead to trouble.

This inclination to compromise continues in youth, where some only do what’s right if it turns out well. They judge actions based on rewards or outcomes, believing that nothing is inherently right or wrong. Popularity, getting a new boyfriend, good grades—these become priorities over principles and character. Unfortunately, such individuals stand firm only until the price is high enough. They don't receive any instruction on living by principles, and their convictions waver as soon as the selling price can satisfy their desires.

This tendency grows in adulthood, leading to police scandals, crooked politicians, compromising preachers, loafers, lawbreakers, and home breakers.

From early childhood, it’s crucial for youth to learn about conviction, understanding that doing right is its own reward. They should be taught never to compromise for convenience or a fair price and to have a sign over their souls that says, “Not for Sale.”

Getting the Most Out of Your Time

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 13:03:01 GMT

What really matters is how we make the most of those 1440 minutes.

Do more than one thing at a time: Listen to audio books while you're driving, working out, or doing simple tasks.
Always have a way to take notes: Don't let good ideas slip away. Write them down so you don't forget.
Avoid people who waste time: Stay away from those who talk a lot about nothing important. Try not to spend too much time with them.
Use the early morning and late evening well: Take advantage of the quiet times in the early morning and late evening to get things done without interruptions.
Work harder when you're most awake: Figure out when you're at your best and use that time to do important stuff.
Use travel time wisely: Don't just sit there when you're on a bus, car, or plane. Bring a good book or find something useful to do.
Plan your day in the morning or the evening before: Spend a few minutes thinking about what you want to do that day. Make a plan and stick to it.
Make waiting time count: Bring something to read or do when you have to wait, like at the doctor's office.
Get help when you need it: If someone else can do a job better and faster, ask for help. Focus on what you're good at.
Hang out with a purpose: Don't spend time chatting for no reason. Organize your time and do things on purpose.
Sleep on purpose: Decide when you'll sleep and stick to it. Too little or too much sleep can mess up how well you work.
Plan time to worry: Write down what bothers you and tell yourself you'll worry about it later. This keeps you from worrying when you should be doing other things.
Don't stress over small decisions: Save your energy for important stuff. Don't make a big deal out of little things.
Focus on what you're doing right now: If you're ready for today, what comes next will take care of itself.

The Unselfish Constancy of True Friendship

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 12:59:32 GMT

My dear friends, let's delve into the unique beauty of friendship—a relationship that can truly embody selflessness. In the intricate dance of life, we see the child needing the parent, and in later years, the parent needing the child. The husband leans on the wife, and reciprocally, the wife leans on the husband. Yet, even in these sacred relationships, a righteous selfishness is present.

However, when we choose to be friends, a remarkable shift occurs. I chose to be your friend not for what I could gain, but for what I could give. It's a commitment to unselfishly help, love, and care for you without expecting the same in return. In the realm of friendship, I ask for nothing; instead, I am willing to give everything. This choice creates a space where the essence of true friendship can flourish—a relationship grounded in selfless giving.

Furthermore, consider the enduring constancy of friendship. In a world where roles and needs evolve, friendships remain steadfast. Children grow and leave home, parents age and pass away, and siblings may move away. Yet, in the realm of friendship, this dynamic need not change. Unlike many other relationships, where the needs may shift with the passage of time, true friendship remains a steady anchor.

The friend relationship is a realm where one can spend years becoming an expert and still have time to use what has been learned. It is an enduring connection that withstands the test of time, providing a consistent and reliable source of support and companionship.

May we cherish the unselfishness and constancy of true friendship, embracing the rare and enduring beauty it brings to our lives.

Thank you. God bless you.

Your friends,

Update from Pastor Thomas Alute

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 18:16:47 GMT

Those that support Alignment Ministries have part in helping this wonderful man of God. Thank you for helping make a difference.

Pastor Alute writes:

God has blessed me with the ministry of training others for ministry,I am engaged with two different bible school, one I started 14 years ago at my local church, another at a neighboring county at Makutano where I have trained for the last 33 years.this week we received new class of 16 students on from the right then 18 in 2nd year then 13 in 3rd year then in 3rd the six men I started preaching practice to take the whole year, after teaching them last year, we train them with other seven men and three pastor's wives, including my wife Julia, we train them to work in children's ministry, youth ministry, pastoral ministry, assistant pastor's, or even deacons.seven of our students are pastor's wives.pray with us please for ministry

Thank you for helping us help others. If you would like to start support just me a line and begin monthly or one time support.

God bless,

Austin

Attacked, Slandered, Destroyed, but Blesed

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 13:58:55 GMT

I do not expect to see so many conversions in this place as I had a year ago, when I had far fewer hearers. Do you ask why? Why, a year ago, I was abused by everybody; to mention my name, was to mention the name of the most abominable buffoon that ever lived. The mere utterance of it brought forth oaths and curses; with many men it was the name of contempt, kicked about the street as a football; but then God gave me souls by hundreds, who were added to my church, and in one year it was my happiness personally to see not less than a thousand who had then been converted.

I do not expect that now. My name is somewhat esteemed, and the great ones of the earth think it no dishonour to sit at my feet; but this makes me fear lest my God should forsake me while the world esteems me. I would rather be despised and slandered than aught else.

This assembly, that you think so grand and fine, I would readily part with, if by such a loss I could gain a greater blessing.… It is for us to recollect, in all times of popularity, that “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!” follows fast upon the heels of “Hosanna!” and that the crowd of to-day, if dealt with faithfully, may turn into the handful of to-morrow; for men love not plain speaking. We should learn to be despised, learn to be contemned, learn to be slandered, and then we shall learn to be made useful by God.

Down on my knees have I often fallen, with the hot sweat rising from my brow, under some fresh slander poured upon me; in an agony of grief, my heart has been well-nigh broken; till at last I learned the art of bearing all, and caring for none. And now my grief runneth in another line, it is just the opposite; I fear lest God should forsake me, to prove that He is the Author of salvation, that it is not in the preacher, that it is not in the crowd, that it is not in the attention I can attract, but in God, and in God alone.

This I hope I can say from my heart,—if to be made as the mire of the streets again, if to be the laughing-stock of fools and the song of the drunkard once more will make me more serviceable to my Master, and more useful to His cause, I will prefer it to all this multitude, or to all the applause that man could give.

C. H. Spurgeon, C. H. Spurgeon’s Autobiography, Compiled from His Diary, Letters, and Records, by His Wife and His Private Secretary, 1854–1860 , vol. 2 (Chicago; New York; Toronto: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1899), 43.New Paragraph

Year End Report 2023

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 00:20:37 GMT

Dear friends,

God blessed last year. Thank you for your prayers and financial support.

Travel

Betty and I traveled to Colombia, Peru, twice, and South Africa and God worked in each place. I accompanied our son, Chris, to hear him make his TED talk in Wales.

God allowed me to preach in English and Spanish in several places across the United States in Send Off services, mission’s conferences, and regularly scheduled services. I got to preach several hundred times.

Health

We seem to have my health under control. The medicines they gave me were really messing with everything. Not having adrenal glands affects everything in your body. I take steroids everyday just to stay alive. If I miss two days, my doctor says I will be dead.

I went on the carnivore diet and that seems to have majorly helped with so much.

Mission Work Supported

Thanks to your generous giving, you have made a difference in the USA, Mexico, Northern Ireland, Kenya, Peru, and the Ukraine. None of that would be possible without your prayerful sacrifice. Thank you.

The future

"From Pain to Praise," a new book on forgiveness, will soon hit the shelves. Got more work to do than ever.

I mainly want you to know that you have made a difference.

Betty and I were very blessed to have the entire family together to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. 4 wonderful children and their spouses, 20 grandkids, 2 married, and 1 great grandbaby.

Thank you. God bless you.

Your friends,

Austin and Betty

Treat People better than they Treat You. by John Maxwell

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sat, 06 Jan 2024 14:36:49 GMT

Austin Gardner shares a John Maxwell video that everyone needs to watch.

2023 Christmas Story

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 19:20:55 GMT

I shared the following story with our family at Christmas this past year. Three of our children were present. David Gardner and family were in Peru, where they serve as missionaries. There were 38 of us in our living room. A sweet time of joy. I read this before we opened the presents.

Christmas Story 2023

Gather around, my cherished family, for I’m about to unfold the most exquisite story of all—the authentic Christmas narrative. Before the world heard its first word, before creation’s dawn, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit existed. God, the Alpha and Omega, beyond time’s confines, ever-existent, the one true God who created and owns the entire world.

Even before God sculpted man and the world’s expanse, in His boundless wisdom, He foresaw the fall of His creation, man, into sin. From the very inception, God had a plan. He planned His sacrificial death on the cross for sinners. God the Son, Jesus, would become the stand-in, the substitute, shouldering humanity’s sins, paying the price for our redemption and for all those that would believe.

In the flawless world, God shaped, He placed man in an earthly paradise known as the Garden of Eden. Though imperfect, innocent man lived, with the choice to heed or disobey God, dwelling in harmonious surroundings.

Adam and his wife he called “Woman” inhabited the garden with only one restriction—everything was theirs to enjoy except the tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. The consequences of disobedience were severe; death awaited them.

The woman yielded to temptation, choosing Satan’s counsel over God’s. She, Woman, then shared the forbidden fruit with Adam, who knew they were going to die.

They realized something was wrong. Exposed, embarrassed, and vulnerable due to sin, they hid from God. They tried to hide their nakedness with makeshift leaf coverings; they trembled, wondering what would happen next.

God, walking in the garden in that evening, called for Adam. God did not come in anger, condemnation or with impending destruction, though Adam expected imminent death.

God urged them to confess their sin. They tried blame-shifting, not wanting to admit guilt. God did something extraordinary. He paid for their sin. He looked at the deceived woman and pronounced pain in childbirth upon her.

Hearing this announcement shocked Adam. Expecting death, he heard his wife would give birth. Overjoyed, he exclaimed, “I am calling you Eve, the mother of all living.” Instead of condemnation, God approached with loving compassion, covering their nakedness with the skins of a substitute, a lamb slain.

Then God made a promise: the woman would give birth to a child that would crush the serpent’s head. Their excitement knew no bounds. Consequences for sin existed, but God had given life and restored dignity.

With the birth of their firstborn, Eve wondered if this child was the promised one, but tragedy struck as Cain killed his brother Abel. Yet, with the next son’s birth, Seth, she continued to hope for the promised Messiah.

The lesson of the substitute endured in their descendants for generations. When we sin, someone must take our place for sin’s payment. The lamb slain symbolized this concept.

Even with the Ten Commandments, God knew man would fail. God provided an elaborate substitution system, anticipating the one who would crush the serpent. Every lamb slain was a picture of the coming Messiah.

Even when God made the ark for men to worship, He promised to speak from the Mercy Seat where the sacrificial blood of the substitute was to be placed.

God reminded them of His promises, promising a virgin would bring forth a child for complete deliverance from sin.

Engaged to Mary, Joseph learned she was with child. An angel explained it was a divine work, a miracle. Mary would give birth to a baby without a man ever having touched her. They were to name him, Jesus, meaning Savior—Immanuel, God with us.

Nearly all the world, even of the Jews, God’s people were no longer looking for the coming of the virgin born Savior, but one old believer was studying and watching. Simeon, vigilant but old, saw Jesus in the temple, witnessing the salvation of the Lord. He proclaimed it loud and clear that God’s promise had come true. Anna came running and left, telling everyone that salvation had come to the world.

Jesus, God in human flesh, came to Earth to save lost souls, fulfilling Old Testament promises.

God announced Jesus’ birth to humble shepherds and non-Jewish scholars, bringing peace between God and man. Jesus came to die on the cross, pay for our sins, and seek and save believers.

Today, my dear family, we’ve listened to the Christmas story—the birth of our Savior. Did you know more promises await fulfillment? He came once to rescue us, but soon He’ll return to establish His eternal kingdom. He is coming to rapture all those that are ready, saved by His grace.

As in His first coming, few expected His return. Yet, His return is imminent and the response echoes the past—few are watching. Oh, to embody the spirit of Simeon and Anna, fervently expecting our beloved Jesus. Jesus is coming soon. Are you ready?

My heartfelt prayer for each of you is true salvation, forgiveness, readiness for the heaven. I pray you are Anticipating Jesus’ return. Live as if will come at any minute. I pray you embrace God’s undeniable truth. My love for you runs deep, desiring to see you walk in love and obedience to our gracious God.

Merry Christmas.

Update from Peru Trip

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sat, 21 Oct 2023 16:39:17 GMT

Saturday, October 21, 2023

Dearest friends,

Thank you so much for praying for our recent three-week trip to Peru. God blessed us enormously. I was involved in teaching, speaking, organizing retreats, counseling, and more during my time in Peru.

Robert Canfield and I surveyed the outside of Arequipa, Peru, for “Taking the Light Ministries” to help get workers to the rural areas of Peru. We are also planning on assisting young men to start new churches.

God is using David and Katie Gardner in extraordinary ways. They blessed me to see them bringing new friends to church and seeing lives changed right before our eyes. People who were slaves to sin and destruction are being given new life and abundant life.

Physically, I did very well in Peru this time. My health is improving. Thank you for praying.

I also thank those who give because your giving allowed Alignment Ministries to pay all the expenses for the retreat for the 15 couples. They live on meager wages, and this was the first time many of them had enjoyed a time away in a pleasant hotel since their honeymoon.

I ask you to pray that God will provide the finances for much more ministry. We will send men to preach where there are no churches and no gospel outreach at all. We need $750 a month for one man to start. That will include his salary, his expenses, transportation, etc. Maybe God would touch your heart to help. I also want that same amount to help a young family start a new church in Arequipa.

God has the funds, and I will trust him to move and give so the gospel can go forth.

I am excited to offer you a free book called “Rising Above the Hurt, A Journey from Pain to Praise.” It is a free download, and please share it with all your friends and family.

Thanks for all you do to get the gospel to the world,

Please pray for us,

Austin and Betty

Urgent Prayer Request

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 19:12:22 GMT

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

Dear praying friends,

I come to you with an urgent prayer request. Tonight, we begin the annual Pastor’s School in Arequipa, Peru. I started this meeting many years ago. I have missed the last three or four years due to COVID-19 and cancer surgery. God has allowed me to be back here again today and this week.

Please pray that God will use every speaker. Dozens, if not hundreds, of pastors are coming from all over to be with us tonight through Friday night.

Pray that God will encourage and strengthen the pastors and workers. Pray that God will call more people to His work.

Pray that souls will be saved of those who come (new people from the churches) who have not yet believed.

Then, pray for the burdens God is putting on my heart. There is so much to do in Peru. The city of Arequipa is twice as big as when Betty and I first arrived. Thousands of people live outside the city that have no way to hear the gospel. I am begging God to help me help them.

I need the funds to do this ministry. I am begging God to show me what to do. It will cost over $10,000 a year for the pastor’s salary, church and house rent, and expenses. Will you pray with me about this great need? You can give monthly or a one-time gift.

We want to help several pastors and new circuit riders get started in ministry, so there is much to ask God for.

We also discuss and pray over a retirement apartment complex for the pastors who have served so long. The team of guys I worked with are getting much older. This is just in the planning stages, but it keeps you abreast of the plan.

Please pray about the meeting this week. Pray that God will move. Outside of a handful of missionaries and pastors, less is being done than before. I am praying that God will call others to come and more work to be done.

If you will go to https://www.alignmentministries.com/ you can download a free copy of my book, Rising Above the Hurt. The link is at the bottom of the page.

God bless you all. Thank you for praying for us. We certainly love you all.

Austin and Betty

Some Thoughts on Habits

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 21:20:40 GMT

Habits are our second nature. Our habits control us. Whatever we frequently repeat becomes a habit.

We form our habits from birth. Oliver Wendell Holmes says that our habits start with our grandmother.

“We sow an act; we reap a habit; we sow a habit, we reap a character.”

Bad habits come quickly and easily. Excellent and correct habits require self-discipline and self-denial.

Most people only change a little after the age of twenty-five or thirty. They are on a trajectory they will follow all their lives unless they decide to pay a great price to form new habits.

Sadly, habits pass from our family. We learn what to do and not to do. We learn what attitudes and actions are acceptable and pleasing to those around us.

We should notice the correlation between divorced parents and children who follow the pattern. Abusive parents raise abusive children. Alcoholics transmit the desire for the same lifestyle to their children.

This doesn’t have to be so, but it most often is because of the cost of forming new habits. Bad habits come naturally. Good habits come only at a significant cost.

Our habits are often blind spots to us. We would deny that we do what others see us doing.

Just remember, if we do it once, it is easier to do it a second time, and if practiced enough, it will become a habit, a part of our nature.

It would be nice if we developed good habits. If we choose good habits, we will hate the bad ones.

A dead fish can float downstream. It takes effort and discipline to swim against the current.

Remember the statement, “like father like son,” or a “chip off the old block,” or “the acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree.” Even what you hate in your parents’ lives may be so ingrained in you it will take great effort to eradicate it.

We will not change habits overnight. We have been doing what we do for so long that it is correct. It will take a long time to form a new habit in your life.

Our habits are like a force of nature, often taking us where we do not want to go. We must force ourselves to look over our lives and see what we want changed. Then, we have to note the discipline and steps it will take to turn from the old habit and form a new one.

With real willpower, we can focus ourselves to the point of change. We can develop habits that will thrill us. We want them. The question is, will we pay the price?

What is holding you back? What are you holding onto that you refuse to let go of? Decide that what you want is more important than what you have. Then, break it down into small achievable steps and form a new habit.

Without extreme effort, we will do what we did yesterday, today, and then again tomorrow.

Habits can be changed, but it will be painful. We must never stop. We must do it until it becomes a new habit. No relaxing, no snooze button on this. Force yourself to do day by day what you know is the habit you want.

Remember, if you do it once, it is easier the second time and even easier the third. Eventually, it can become a habit.

New habits are formed just like the old ones were. What you do today can be repeated tomorrow.

You may need to choose different friends and a different environment. We become like what we are around.

The saying is birds of a feather flock together. In Spanish, the saying is “Dime con quien andes y te dire quien eres.” “Tell me who you spend time around, and I will tell you who you are.”

If habits are so strong, shouldn’t we decide which habits we want in our lives?

You can be on time if you want to.

You can tell the truth.

You can keep your word.

You can focus on your work.

You can spend time with the Lord God of Heaven every day.

You can read to grow.

You can choose your friends wisely.

You can handle your money with integrity.

October Prayer Letter from Arequipa, Peru

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sat, 07 Oct 2023 17:45:23 GMT

Saturday, October 7, 2023

Our dearest friends,

Israel is in a state of war.

Our first prayer request is that you pray for the soon return of Jesus to take us home and, secondly, that you pray for Israel, who finds themselves in a state of war. I love Jesus, and I love His Word as you do. I have read the Bible all my life. I am fully expecting His return any day.

Peru Bible College

I have had the best time teaching in the Bible College and speaking in chapel. God is at work in the lives of these young men and women. There is a great need to train more and more young people. Could you pray that God will touch the hearts of individuals and churches to support the Bible College? If you decide to help the Bible College monthly or with a one-time gift, we will get it straight to them. David Gardner is doing a great job here and running from dawn till dark, training, counseling, helping, and loving young men for the gospel's sake.

Preaching

God has allowed me to preach several times to the wonderful people of the churches here in Arequipa. God has graciously blessed.

Taking the Light Ministries

Alignment Ministries proudly partners with Robert Canfield and Taking the Light Ministries to get the gospel to rural areas worldwide. Robert came for a short visit, and we toured the rural areas. We visited villages, small towns, and groups of families where the gospel is not preached at all. There is a great need to get young preachers and send them into these towns and villages. Please watch for upcoming announcements from Robert and Taking the Light.

Pastor's School

Please pray for me as I will preach to pastors and leaders from all over Peru and other South American countries this week. Pray that God will stir us all on to do more. I need God to move and use me, as there is nothing I can do to get us where we need to be.

Thank you

Thank you all for all you do to help us through Alignment Ministries. Your giving works all over the world. There is so much more need than we have current resources, but I know God will supply.

We love you more than you will ever know. I want to love unconditionally like Jesus has loved me. Thank you for making it all possible. God has blessed me so incredibly that I cannot express my thanks.

On a side note, we are staying at David and Katie's house, and I must tell you what an amazing young lady Katie is. She teaches in the Bible School. She leads the ladies' side of the Society of Mentors in Spanish and English. She is a tremendous hostess. God blessed David greatly with his sweet wife.

Gratefully yours for world evangelism,

Austin and Betty

You Can Know If It Is True.

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 23:00:00 GMT

And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the Lord hath not spoken? Deuteronomy 18:21.

God told His people how they could know if the messenger was sharing God's Word. They were to see if what He said came true or not. If it didn't come true, then God wasn't speaking.

The Bible has proven itself to be accurate time after time. We know we have the Word of God.

Now, if you question today whether or not you are hearing the word of God, then you should check out the Bible. God gave you His Word. He inspired it. He proved it. He preserved it. You use the Bible to test every preacher standing before you!

These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Acts 17:11.

When Paul and Silas arrived in Berea, they went to the synagogue of the Jews in that city. There, they found a group of people that delighted them. They were different than the people in most synagogues. They were fair. They were noble. They listened to what Paul and Silas taught and checked it out in the Scriptures.

They were willing to listen as long as they could search the Scriptures and see if what they were hearing was in the Bible. They would allow Paul to speak but just wanted to be sure that what he said was in the Bible.

Isn't that how we should be? Many of us go to church every service. We decide if we like what is being said but do not check it out in the Scriptures. How many of us are reading our Bibles daily? How many of us are studying the Bible so that we will know if what we hear fits the Word of God?

Be a noble, fair-minded Christian. Listen, but check out everything you hear to see if it is in the Scriptures!

Teaching our Students to Study the Bible

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Have your student learn to ask himself the following questions as they read the Bible.
What persons have I read about, and what have I learned about them?
What places have I read about, and what have I read about them?
If the place is not mentioned, can I find out where it is?
Do I know its position on the map?
Does the passage refer to any particular time in the history of the children of Israel or some leading character?
Can I tell from memory what I have just been reading?
Are there any parallel passages or texts that throw light on this passage?
Have I read anything about God the Father?
About Jesus Christ?
About the Holy Spirit?
What have I read about myself?
About man’s sinful nature?
About the new nature?
Is there anything I should learn to do?
Any example to follow?
Any promise to lay hold of?
Any appeal for my direction?
Any prayer that I may echo?
How is this Scripture profitable for doctrine?
For reproof?
For correction?
For instruction in righteousness?
Does it contain the gospel in type or evidence?
What is the key verse of the chapter or passage?
Can I repeat it from memory?
Teach them four necessary attitudes and actions for learning the Word of God
Admit its truth
Submit to its teachings
Commit it to memory
Transmit it.
What they must learn to do
Feed themselves
They must learn to continue reading the Bible
Help them learn to read the Bible more than books about the Bible
Teach them to carry their Bibles and to mark them as they learn
Teach them to use a concordance and look up things
Teach them to do a word study in the Bible from the beginning to the end, first mention, etc
Teach them to spend a few minutes every day reading the Bible
Teach them that as they read it is to learn to be and do
Teach them to memorize the Scriptures
Teach them to meditate on the Scriptures

Read the Bible Everyday

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 22:06:11 GMT

18 And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites: 19 And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them: 20 That his heart be not lifted up above his brethren, and that he turn not aside from the commandment, to the right hand, or to the left: to the end that he may prolong his days in his kingdom, he, and his children, in the midst of Israel. Deuteronomy 17:18–20.

Interestingly, the king was to write his own copy of the law. He was to read it, but more than that, he was to write his own copy. If God’s leaders here on earth right now would consider the need to be in the Word daily, it would make a definite difference in our ministries. How long would it have taken to write your copy of the law? How much would you have to concentrate on what it said to make a faithful copy? Let's identify ourselves as people who read and study the Book..

He was to read the Word of God every day of his life so that he might learn to fear God and keep his words to do them. This would also help him not be lifted up in his own heart among his brethren. Deuteronomy 17:20. If we made a copy of the Scriptures of our own Deuteronomy 17:18 and then read it every day, would we get the idea that God wants the gospel to get to the entire world? Would the Great Commission mean more to us? I believe it would. We must do all in our power to get men and women to read and study the Word of God to put it into practice in their lives.

God was going to give Israel a king. The concern was that kings thought too highly of themselves. God gave them instructions that should help the king realize he was still human, one of the people. He wanted the king to do right. God wanted to bless the king because of his obedience. So God instructed the people and the king on what to do not to get lifted up in pride.

They were only to let one of their own lead them. The king was not to make himself rich. He was not to take God’s people back to Egypt. Many times, Egypt is a picture of the world in the Bible. The king was to lead God’s people to do right, to honor God, and never to turn to the world. He was not to have an assortment of wives. He would not make alliances with other countries by marrying the daughters of foreign kings.

He was also to make himself a personal copy of the law, the books of Moses, and the Pentateuch. He was to read the Book of the law every day. He was to learn to respect and reverence God. He was to live in obedience. He was to do what the Scriptures said to do. This would keep him from being lifted up in pride.

This is good advice for all of us as we seek to love and serve God. We do not need alliances with the world. We do not need to go to the world to get help. We need to be in the Bible every day. We need to obey God humbly.

Don't forget God

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 14:54:49 GMT

Beware that thou forget not the Lord thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: 12 Lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; 13 And when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied; 14 Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the Lord thy God, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage; Deuteronomy 8:11–14.

God, through Moses, tells His people to be careful that they do not forget who it is that has done so much for them. He warns them that they will be enjoying things He has done for them and forget Him, even though He did it!

He said that they would eat and be full. That is, they would have everything. Deuteronomy 8:10

They would have houses they didn't build, but He gave them. They would be successful in the farming and ranching efforts. Deuteronomy 8 13

But they would forget Him. He brought them out of slavery. He was giving them the promised land. He was pouring out His blessings on them.

The danger was that success would breed pride and lift them up. Deuteronomy 8:14.

The question for us today is, Do we recognize that God has done so much for us?

Do we remember where He brought us from? Do we know what we would get if He were not kind and gracious to us?

Have we become lifted in pride because we think that we blessed ourselves? Do we believe that we have made ourselves and not God?

Did our apparent prosperity cause us to grow proud and cold towards God?

I challenge you with today's thought to not forget God. All that we have or are is something He has done for us!

How often do we get proud of our accomplishments? We change our lives. We better ourselves. We become an ethical and moral person. The story is that we were lost in sin and doing wrong. God saved us. He converted us. He changed us. But we like to forget that part.No need to admit we couldn't change. We need a little credit for our advancement, right?

God didn't want His people to be proud of all that had happened. He didn't want them to forget all that He had done. God had rescued them from slavery. He had gotten them their freedom. Now, they needed to remember that.

Do you forget where you were when He found you and saved you? Has this caused you to be prideful? In your pride, do you like to see how you changed your life instead of admitting that He did great work in you? Take time to meditate on this truth today.

He was to Carry God's People on His Heart

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 12:00:03 GMT

And thou shalt put in the breastplate of judgment the Urim and the Thummim; and they shall be upon Aaron’s heart, when he goeth in before the Lord: and Aaron shall bear the judgment of the children of Israel upon his heart before the Lord continually. Exodus 28:30.

There is a beautiful picture in the robe of the Old Testament man of God. He would have the names of the tribes of Israel engraved on stones and wear them on his chest. He would wear those names on his heart before the Lord.

God's people were to be on his heart.

He was to pray for them, be concerned for them, and care for them.

I think it is a beautiful picture of what a Biblical pastor does. He carries his people on his heart. He hurts when they hurt. He prays for them. In many ways, he answers for them. He is responsible for them before the Lord.

Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

He gives account for the people God has placed under his leadership. He watches for their souls.

The Mercy Seat

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 12:00:01 GMT

And the cherubims shall stretch forth their wings on high, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and their faces shall look one to another; toward the mercy seat shall the faces of the cherubims be. And thou shalt put the mercy seat above upon the ark ; and in the ark thou shalt put the testimony that I shall give thee. And there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubims which are upon the ark of the testimony, of all things which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel.
Exodus 25:20–22.

In the ark of the covenant is the testimony, but the mercy seat is above the testimony on the ark. God meets His people at the mercy seat.

They sprinkled the blood on the mercy seat. We can come to the Mercy Seat because of Jesus, His death on the cross, and His shed blood.

You have been afraid to come to the Lord. You have thought that you are not worthy. You are right. But He meets us at the Mercy Seat. None of us are worthy. We all come to get mercy!

Even when He gave them commandments, He spoke from the Mercy Seat.

What a wonderful truth! What a wonderful God! He meets us and talks to us from the Mercy Seat!

This has to be one of my favorite verses in the Bible. I lived so much of my life thinking that God saw me through the lens of His law. I knew I never measured up. I am sure no one meant for me to believe that or feel that way. But I sure did. I saw the law. I saw myself. I knew I didn’t measure up. I thought God was disappointed with me, but this verse teaches me another lesson.

God knew and knows that I will never measure up. That is why He places the law in the ark. God wants me to see myself and know that I need Him. He knows that I need Him, but I have to learn that. But then, here is the lesson. Above the law, above the ark, He puts a mercy seat. The blood is sprinkled in sacrifice for my sins in this mercy seat.

Notice that when He meets with us, He does so from above the mercy seat. That is where He communes with us. That is where He has paid the price and made everything right. He is not coming in judgment but in mercy.

It is so easy to read the Old Testament without noticing or paying attention to these great verses. God is a God of mercy. He is a God of grace. God Himself bears our sin debt. He makes the way to us rather than the other way around.

He loves you. He paid your sin debt. He wants to have communion with you, a relationship. He makes it all right so that He can. Come and enjoy our great God!

Failures needing grace, unable to obey

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 12:00:02 GMT

And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be obedient. Exodus 24:7.

God gave great details about how they were to build the Tabernacle. He also told them how He expected them to conduct their laws. After hearing what God wanted, they said that they would do so and be obedient. They built the Tabernacle after His instructions and the way He wanted.

But the truth is that being obedient is really beyond us. We are sinners. We mess up regularly. We fail. God gave us the law to show us our weaknesses. We see that we fail, that we can't.

That is why they would offer sacrifices for their sin, their failures in that very Tabernacle. They would try to be obedient but fail.

You can try all you want to do right, be right, obey, and do what you are supposed to, but you will fail. It is your nature. It is that you are rebellious and do not want to do what is right. We are too self-centered.

That is why we need His grace. That is why we need His sacrifice. In Christ, we are obedient. And any true obedience you see in our lives comes from His working in and through us!

Little by little

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 13:35:12 GMT

I will not drive them out from before thee in one year; lest the land become desolate, and the beast of the field multiply against thee. By little and little I will drive them out from before thee, until thou be increased, and inherit the land. Exodus 23:29–30.

It is always little by little that God will do the ministry. If he does too much too quick we could never deal with the success and never keep up with the work. We have to grow with our responsibilities. Just do your job to the best of your ability every day. Try to stretch yourself all that you can and you will see what God can do with you It is always little by little by little that we grow and have success in the ministry or our lives for various reasons.

The Key to the Missionary Problem

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 20:17:08 GMT

One of my all time favorite books the "The Key to the Missionary Problem" by Andrew Murray. I challenge you to get a copy today. I do not know how to challenge you to purchase and read this book. It should be in every pastor's library. Every person needs to read the book.

69% of the world does not even consider itself Christian in any form. The only way to heaven is through Jesus. He is the way, the truth, and the life. What will we do to get the gospel to the world?

There is no more spiritual and mysterious truth than that Christ our Head is actually and entirely dependent upon the members of His body for carrying out the plans which He, as Head, has formed. It is only spiritual men, and a Church in which spiritual men have influence, that is capable of rightly carrying out Christ’s commands.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 2.

“To the pastor belongs the privilege and the responsibility of solving the foreign missionary problem.”

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 5.

“The problem of the divinity school is this: not how to train an occasional man for the foreign field, but how to kindle the missionary passion in every man that passes through the school, that he may thereby become an able minister of Christ.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 5.

It is one thing for a minister to be an advocate and supporter of missions: it is another and very different thing for him to understand that they are the chief end of the Church, and therefore the chief end for which his congregation exists. It is only when this truth masters him in its spiritual power, that he will be able to give the subject of missions its true place in his ministry. As he sees how every believer is called to witness to Christ’s love and claim, how the healthy spiritual life depends on the share the believer takes in work for his Lord, how he has to lead the congregation on to make the extension of Christ’s kingdom the highest object of its corporate existence, he will feel how nothing can enable it to carry this out but a definite consecration to be filled with the Spirit and the love of Christ. And as he then thinks of all the ignorance and worldliness and unbelief that he has to contend with, he will learn that his missionary enthusiasm must be nothing less than the enthusiasm of the Holy Spirit filling him with an intense love to Christ, an intense faith in His power, an intense desire to lead all His disciples to give their lives to making Jesus King over the whole earth.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 10–11.

The Christian young people of America are able to raise the money sufficient for all the missionaries needed to evangelise the world, but the Church is not “properly guiding and educating” them for this. Sunday scholars could do so much—they are not being trained to it. Protestant Christendom counts it “impracticable and visionary” to give fifty thousand men to the foreign work for the service of Christ Jesus and His kingdom: it would be “too great a strain on the resources of the Church.” The Conference and the Churches it represents are not ready to “do their duty.” The Church is not willing “to make Jesus known to the world.” This aim does not “rule its spirit.” In this matter the Church of Christ is not “what she ought to be.”

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 24–25.

With the appeal to men there must be the appeal to God. The work is His: He cares for it. The power is His: He gives it. The Church is His: He waits to use it. The world is His: He loves it. He can make His people willing in the day of His power. He will hear the cries of His servants who give Him no rest. He delights to prove His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Things cannot go on as they are, if the world is really to be evangelised in this generation.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 34.

And if we ask how it came that this little Church, the least of all, has thus outdone all its older and larger sisters, the answer appears to be this: It alone of all the Churches has actually sought to carry out the great truth, that to gather in to Christ the souls He died to save is the one object for which the Church exists. It alone has sought to teach and train every one of its members to count it their first duty to Him who loved them, to give their life to make Him known to others.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 56.

The three great principles taught by the Holy Spirit in a time of His mighty working,—that the Church exists only for extending the kingdom, that every member must be trained to take part in it, and that the personal experience of the love of Christ is the power that fits for this: to these principles the Brethren have remained true, and it is in this respect that their example speaks to us with such power.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 66.

He is here to you; He is now speaking to you through this meeting as His voice; and you will have to say something to Him, whatever it is, in reply,—as to whether for His service, whether at home or abroad, whether in the commonest round of the most ordinary life till you die, or whether in the high places of the field, you are prepared to live as those that have put their hands in His, and have recognised distinctly that the centre of your life is shifted off self on to Jesus Christ, and that you have distinctly laid down underneath His feet all those desires to attract notice for self’s sake, to get praise, even the least item, that shall terminate in self. You belong to Him if you are His; you are to live as those that belong to Him. All your gains of every kind are to go into your Master’s purse, and He is to decide where, and how, and how long you are to serve.’

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 78.

Let the pastor learn and teach that all failure in caring, and giving, and praying, and living for missions, is owing to a feeble superficial spiritual life.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 92.

We have given too much attention to methods and to machinery and to resources, and too little to the Source of Power—the filling with the Holy Ghost. This, I think, you will agree with me, is the great weakness, has been the great weakness, of our service in the past, and, unless remedied, will be the great weakness in the future. We are commanded to be filled with the Spirit. If we are not filled, we are living in disobedience and sin, and the cause of our sin is the cause of Israel’s sin of old—the sin of unbelief.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 96–97.

“I added that I thought the tendency of a collection was to leave upon the mind the impression that the all-important thing was money, whereas no amount of money could convert a single soul. The supreme need was that men and women filled with the Holy Spirit should give themselves to the work, and for the support of such there would never be a lack of funds.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 112.

We want to train every believer to take such an interest in the progress of the work of God’s kingdom that he may feel and bear the burden of its great need, that he may realise the impossibility of its being done without God’s own power, that he may learn to cry for more men and money, and the Spirit’s power, and the ingathering of souls.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 114–115.

The great and burning question of the missionary problem is, How can the Church be brought back to the place where the disciples and the early Church were, when, in the power of the Holy Spirit, they did what no other generation since their time has done?

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 119.

let us ever again remember: The Missionary Problem is a personal one.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 134.

That missions are the chief end of the Church. That the chief end of the ministry is to guide the Church in this work, and fit her for it. That the chief end of the preaching in a congregation ought to be to train it to take its part in helping the Church to fulfil her destiny. And that the chief end of every minister in this connection ought to be to seek grace to fit himself thoroughly for this work.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 152.

An essential element in a true missionary revival will be the broken heart and the contrite spirit in view of past neglect and sin.

Andrew Murray, The Key to the Missionary Problem (London: J. Nisbet & Co., 1902), 180.

OUR ATTITUDE IS NOT AUTOMATICALLY GOOD JUST BECAUSE WE ARE CHRISTIANS

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 18:22:45 GMT

I love the following excerpt. John C. Maxwell helps us understand how our attitude can be at the bottom of the seven deadly sins. This article can wake you up if you will let it. Read the book. I love the book.

It is noteworthy that the seven deadly sins (pride, covetousness, lust, envy, anger, gluttony, and sloth) are all matters of attitude, inner spirit, and motives. Sadly, many carnal Christians carry with them inner spirit problems. They are like the elder brother of the prodigal son, thinking they do everything right. He chose to stay home with the father. No way was he going to spend his time sowing wild oats. Yet, when the younger brother came back home, some of the elder brother’s wrong attitudes began to surface.

First came a feeling of self-importance. The elder brother was out in the field doing what he ought to do, but he got mad when the party began at home. He didn’t get mad because he didn’t like parties. I know he liked parties, because he complained to his father that he never got to throw one!

That was followed by a feeling of self-pity. The elder brother said, “Look! For so many years I have been serving you, and I have never neglected a command of yours; and yet you have never given me a kid, that I might be merry with my friends; but when this son of yours came, who has devoured your wealth with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him” (Luke 15:29–30).

Often we overlook the true meaning of the story of the prodigal son. We forget that we have not one but two prodigals. The younger brother is guilty of the sins of the flesh, whereas the elder brother is guilty of the sins of the spirit (attitude). When the parable closes, it is the elder—the second prodigal—who is outside the father’s house.

This “elder brother” attitude has three possible results, none of which is positive.

First, it is possible for us to assume the place and privilege of a son while refusing the obligations of a brother. The elder brother outwardly was correct, conscientious, industrious, and dutiful, but his attitude was wrong. Also note that a wrong relationship with the brother brought a strained relationship with the father (v. 28).

Second, it is possible to serve the Father faithfully yet not be in fellowship with Him. A right relationship will usually cultivate similar interests and priorities. Yet the elder brother had no idea why the father would rejoice over his son’s return.

Third, it is possible to be an heir of all our Father possesses yet have less joy and liberty than one who possesses nothing. The servants were happier than the elder son. They ate, laughed, and danced while he stood on the outside demanding his rights.

A wrong attitude kept the elder brother away from the heart’s desire of the father, the love of his brother, and the joy of the servants. Wrong attitudes in our lives will block the blessings of God and cause us to live below God’s potential for our lives.

John C. Maxwell, How High Will You Climb? Determine Your Success by Cultivating the Right Attitude (Grand Rapids, MI: HarperCollins Leadership, 2014).

Learning a Language can be Fun!

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 12:00:05 GMT

I stopped talking and trying to motivate the family abruptly when we turned towards Mexico. We were in Houston, Texas, traveling from Northwest Georgia. It was in Houston that the reality slapped me in the face. We were going to Mexico. I didn’t know one word of Spanish. I had spent a year motivating my family and telling them how much fun it would be to serve as missionaries in Peru. We would go to Mexico first to learn the language.

Now it was real. Turning south in Houston, Texas, brought me face-to-face with reality. I would take my family to a place where I didn’t understand one word of the language. I wouldn’t be able to read the road signs. I couldn’t order food or know how much money I would need to pay.

I had heard so many stories of how hard it was in other countries. I had heard how they could steal my windshield from my car while driving at 80 mph. They could steal my underwear under my clothes, and I would never know it. Boy, reality is different from all those exciting motivational speeches I had been giving.

After we crossed the border, we arrived in Monterey, Mexico. I was looking for the Holiday Inn. It was a Wednesday. My wife asked me if we would attend a church for a prayer meeting that night. I said, “Of course we will!”

She said, “Well, how will you find a church?” I said, “Don’t be silly. I will look in the Yellow Pages of the phone book.” Young people might not understand that the Yellow Pages were the secret to finding what you were looking for before the internet. I was so ignorant that I thought the churches would be listed under the C’s as churches. I did not know that the word church was “Iglesia” or even the remotest idea that the word church started with an “i.”

I was terrified. I couldn’t tell my wife. If I told her, then she would be afraid. She was trusting me to know what I was doing.

The following day, after we woke up, we loaded the family up and headed out into our old Suburban. In no time, a police officer started blowing a whistle at me. He pointed at my truck and motioned for me to pull over to the side. Now, I was terrified.

I pulled over, and he came up and started blabbering in a gibberish. I had no idea what he was saying. All I knew to say was. “I don’t speak Spanish.”

He then said, “Speeding, school.” I said, “I am sorry I didn’t know I was speeding.” He said for me to give him $20 and I could go. I gave him the money and climbed back into the suburban. Betty was terrified. She was trying to figure out what she would do to get me out of jail and take care of our four small children.

It all worked out, and we finally arrived in Queretaro some 12 hours later.

I knew from high school and college that I had no language ability. Now, I faced learning Spanish. One missionary friend had told me I would never speak the language. I would only be the driver of Spanish preachers. If I learned, it would be only to teach the simplest, most basic messages. That wasn’t for me. I had to preach and teach, or I would never be happy.

Arriving in Queretaro, they assigned us a house that would be God’s most beautiful and perfect will. Our landlord would become a lifelong friend who helped me learn the language.

My friend invited me to go with him on a business trip one evening. Most of the invitation was done with body language and a few English words he knew.

Somehow, that night, he asked me what I wanted in Mexico. I told him I wanted to learn the language and preach and teach fluently. He told me he would help. That year of my life was one of the best I ever had. His friendship and the few things I will say to you about language learning made learning another language fun.

The first lesson you need to learn if you truly want it to be fun is that learning a language is a social activity. Those who do not enjoy learning the language usually turn it into an academic activity.

We learned our native tongue, which we speak socially. Most of us did not know what a verb was until we were very fluent in the language. The fact is that most of us hated grammar class. The class where they taught us English was like a foreign language to us.

These are present participles, past participles, gerunds, infinitives, helping verbs, subjects, and predicates. You get the idea.

We could talk. We could understand the teacher unless they tried to make talking so technical. “Why, son, that is a dangling participle. Your subject and verb do not agree.” All I thought was, “What are you talking about?”

So, let’s talk about learning a new language. I have had some fun playing with our language and the grammar. Some of you have become very good at English grammar. You could diagram the sentences, use adjectives and adverbs correctly, etc. Some of us weren’t so good at that.

You will need to understand the grammar in your new language, eventually. You will need to know why they say some things, but when you learn, those things can impede learning.

Have you ever asked your mother why we call milk, milk, not water? Have you ever questioned why we call it a white house in English and not a house white? No, they told us what to say, or really, they didn’t. We just mimicked what they said. They corrected us when we didn’t say it right.

Now, ain’t that right? You know, ain’t ain’t a word, but you still learned to say it because many around you did.

Check out two or three small children. Watch them interact. They know how to say things. They understand each other. Mom and Dad understand them, too. It is harder for an outsider to understand that two or three-year-old.

When they handed us a ball and called it a ball, we just accepted that it was a ball. Yes, we learned to say “why” to the point, our parents wanted to kill us, but not about why a color was called a color or a day or a night. We accepted what we were told.

If you want to make learning another language fun, then talk. Say it the best you can. Listen to them. Let them correct you. But have fun. No one is attacking you. Language learning has much to do with just mimicking or imitating your new friends. What do they say? When do they say it? How do they say it?

Remember, language is social, so get out of the books, out of the classroom, and go live life with them. I played racket ball with my Mexican friends two or three times a week. I went to a soccer game and didn’t understand the first thing. It was about spending time with my new friends.

They laughed at me or, as some say, with me. They told me jokes I didn’t understand. They constantly asked me if I was understanding, but we were together. That is the key to making it fun.

I woke up and wondered where we were going as soon as I could get out of class. It was fun because I was with friends. We did fun things; we went places. I was almost always “lost in space” since I didn’t understand, but I learned a little more every day.

The second key to making it fun is loving people and wanting to be with them. I went as a missionary. God called me to share the gospel with those that had not heard.

The language is a very significant barrier. Sometimes, when they are talking and looking in your direction, you will want to know if they are talking about you. Are they laughing at me? Sometimes, you will be way too sensitive and get your feelings hurt. It is risky making new friends and, especially, if you are learning a new language.

This is all I knew. The people were a tad different in skin color; they spoke a different language, ate different foods, and had different customs, but they were and are people. They are people God loves and sent me to minister to them.

The new missionary has to drop all the prejudices he has spent a lifetime learning. You can’t think like your home country or culture. You certainly can’t have a superiority complex like many of us.

Isn’t it amazing how you can think if they were really smart, they would speak my language? It is a backhanded slap in your face because they think that if you were really smart, you would speak their language.

Our world tells us many things about other cultures. They are lazy, or they are thieves. They are more intelligent than Americans or not as smart as Americans. None of these are true.

We think wrong things because we do not know them. Since we do not know them, we don’t love them. When you develop a personal relationship with them, you will love them because you will know them.

They hurt just like you do. Their children get sick and die just like yours. They will be there for you just like you should be there for them. Let’s just make up our minds that we are going to love them.

Loving them means you will not walk away just because it gets uncomfortable or you are misunderstood. Love means you will be patient with them and pray they will be patient with you. Love means you will be kind to them. Treat them like you want to be treated. Do not be boastful and proud of your country, your heritage, your things, your money, or anything else. Love doesn’t do that. Never act like you are better than them.

I have seen Americans use hand sanitizer after shaking the hands of the people they claim to love. I wonder if they do that after holding hands with their wife or husband.

Love says you will learn their culture so you will be polite according to their standards, which might not be the same as your culture. In one culture, you slurp in another; you do not. In one culture, you burp in another; you do not.

If you love them, it will not be about you, but about them. You will not be touchy or resentful. You will believe in them. You will accept them just as they are. You will in no way look down on them.

You will put up with whatever you have to put up with. You will always believe the best about them and their culture. You will not quit on them. You will not walk away no matter how you are treated.

There is a scene in an old movie, "‘The Cross and the Switchblade," where David Wilkerson says to Nicky Cruz that God loves him and that he, David, loves Nicky. Nicky hates hearing that. David tells him the same truth every time he sees him. Then Nicky threatens to cut David Wilkerson into pieces. Wilkerson responds with If you cut me into thousands of pieces, every piece will scream out to you that God loves you and I love you. Nicky’s life was forever changed. Love does that.

We can’t love like this without God doing a work in us. You will have to learn Scripture and obey it. You will have to have a work of grace in your heart, but you can love them.

When you love them, you will love being around them. You will want to talk to them. Love with make it fun.

If you want to have fun learning the language, you will need to break down the cultural barriers . You will have to learn all about them. Why do they do what they do? Not what you think or other expats tell you. Ask them everything. Let them teach you. You might find that many of the things that seemed so different aren’t, or even that the way they do things is better than what you were taught.

My friend and I were talking when I could barely speak the language. I asked him if he carried a knife. My dad had told me that the Mexicans all carried knives. Dad warned me they would be very nice to me, that is, to my face, but when I turned my back, they would stab me in the back.

My friend said no, I don’t carry a knife, but I understand all Americans do. Americans will be friendly to your face, but if you turn your back, they will stab you.

What in the world? He had heard the same thing I had. It was a lie on both sides, but just the sort of lie that keeps us apart. Some say they are not like us. What? Nothing could be further from the truth.

The second you learn their culture and breaking down the barriers, you will have so much fun. They will become just people. They will not be different. You will not notice skin color or language. You will just see your friend. Now, that makes life fun. Doing life with your friends, hanging out, and enjoying life is fun.

Now that you are beginning to understand how they think, it will improve you. Seeing things from different perspectives improves us. Now you understand them.

The experts told you they think differently. Americans think in straight clearly defined lines. Others use circular reasoning, so they are different. Once you understand them, you will not see them nearly as different as you did when you held on to your old prejudices and cultural beliefs.

The last thing I will mention on the road to having fun learning a new language is that you must learn to laugh at yourself. Quit taking yourself so seriously.

You make a mistake, and they chuckle. Just chuckle with them. Don’t get mad. If they see you are having fun, they will help you. People help needy people. Grateful people get help. People who are fun to be around have more friends and learn more of the language.

I can’t tell you the number of times they laughed me at or made me the blunt end of a joke. I tired of it, but as I learned to laugh at myself and relax, they had more fun with me. That became the key to enjoying life.

It was not always easy to laugh at myself. Sometimes I wanted to cry. Other times, I wanted to kill somebody. I was frustrated. I was tired of them telling jokes I couldn’t understand. I was tired of feeling like an outsider. But dropping my guard and laughing at my mistakes let them off the hook. Now, with our guards down, friends could laugh and play and have fun,.

So, I have shown you several ways that might help you enjoy the language. Honestly, it should be fun as you try to learn the language. You should experience new things, going to new places, making discoveries, and growing personally.

Love the people. Laugh at yourself. Live with and around people so that you can have social interactions. Leave your cultural barriers and misunderstandings behind. Learn about the new culture and see the beauty in it.

Things will be different, but if you put these little steps into practice, you will enjoy your language-learning time.

Final post on the Gray Areas

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Romans 14:16-19 Let not then your good be evil spoken of: For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

You are doing right, or at least maybe, but you do not want it to be spoken evil of! The kingdom of God is not about whether I can eat or drink that but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.

The point is to be serving Christ, whichever position you take. It is not about you. If you keep the right attitude, you will do what God wants, and men will approve you.

Instead of being divisive, this new attitude will bring peace. We ought to aim to keep the peace among the brethren and in the church. We should try to build up our brother, not prove our point.

Liberty is a blessing and should not be divisive. We should handle it right. We should be careful of our attitude. We should not seek to have an excuse to do what we want!

Will you take note of the things mentioned in I Corinthians 8?

First, if you think you know so much, you probably don't. You certainly have yet to learn everything you need or will learn. I fear that one of the biggest mistakes I made as a young man was to think I knew things. I would hear it preached and accept it often without thinking. I hurt people. I hurt my family. I took man's preaching that men said way too literally. You don't know what you think you know.

Eating the meat offered to idols or not eating it does not make you better than the other. Somewhere along the way, we all want to find a set of rules to live by, and of course, mine is better than yours. Paul makes it simple. No, it is not!

The idols and the false gods were nothing. The real question here was my brother's conscience in Christ, and I would not want to offend him because I knew something he didn't or felt a freedom that he didn't feel.

I should not let my freedom become a stumbling block to my brother or sister in Christ. That is what I would like to say to all. Quit flaunting your liberty. Quit getting with others and bragging about how you are better because you do not obey the convictions, rules, standards, or whatever others hold to. Just live to Christ. Keep the right spirit and attitude; you will have come much farther. Do what is right. Do not cause your brother to stumble.

Paul would rather never eat meat than cause a brother to stumble. That well settles it. Be careful how you treat your brother in Christ.

The last thing, we live in grace. We are saved by grace. We are under no rules or regulations. That doesn't make us superior to others. It points out that we recognize our tremendous need for a Savior. Grace certainly doesn't give us the right to mock others. It doesn't give us the right to act like we are more intelligent than, more spiritual than, etc.

Be careful how you use the liberty you have been given so it never becomes a license to sin. Check out the following verses: Jude 1:4, Galatians 5:13, 1 Peter 2:16

Gray Areas 10

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Romans 14:15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.

We are to walk in love. We are not to do things that would hurt our brother. So, if you eat meat and that grieves your brother, you fail in your walk of love. Don't destroy or hurt your brother by the use of your liberty.

It could be all right to do what you are doing. Paul didn't see a problem, but I should use discretion even though I have liberty and every right to eat that meat. Why would I want to hurt my brother?

Maybe it would be better to eat the meat, purchase it, and talk about eating it when I wasn't around this brother that I know will be hurt.

We need some discretion. We need to love enough to limit ourselves around others. Show some restraint.

Every parent had to learn to do that. All of a sudden, we are the grown-ups. We have to behave in ways that will positively influence our children. We may know we have liberty or know how and when to say or do something, but the children aren't ready. We use restraint. We use discretion.

You have liberty, but you might think about how you use that liberty. And in your liberty, don't hurt your brother.

Gray Areas 9

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 12:00:01 GMT

Romans 14:14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.

This verse is a real clincher! Paul knows and is persuaded by the Lord Jesus himself that there is nothing unclean of itself. It is in how the man esteems the gray area himself. Now, if you see this verse in the light of this entire discussion, you will realize that Paul was willing to limit his freedom.

He didn’t see anything wrong with it. The days in themselves are not unclean, nor is the meat unclean. The issue is in the heart of the brother. You know he will say he will do nothing to offend his brother. He is more concerned about the other brother’s conscience than his own freedom.

That is a good lesson for us. So many people like this chapter because it seems to give them the right to do things that offend others. That is not the Biblical attitude. It is not what Paul thought, obviously.

He was even convinced that there was no problem with the meat but! But! But! That didn’t allow him to trample over his brother’s conscience or mock him. How many young Christians love to flaunt their freedoms and mock others?

How many older Christians love to be judgmental of others based on these gray areas? Well, decide now to honor and serve God and keep this Romans 14 attitude.

Gray Areas 8

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 11:52:04 GMT

Romans 14:13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.

Hopefully, you have read the first seven entries in this series. It all goes together. But this verse emphasizes another attitude I should have in everything I do. I am not to judge anyone else. I am not to criticize them, judge them, look down on them, feel superior to them, etc.

Instead, I am to judge that I do not want to be a stumbling block in my brother's life. I do not want to cause him to fall.

Simply put, that means that there are things that I can do and have full liberty to do, but maybe I shouldn't. Or if I do them, I should be careful when and where I do them. They are not wrong in and of themselves, but younger Christians might be offended, and some might even fall into sin.

This verse may anger many who want freedom to live and do as they please. They and Cain say they are not responsible for their brother and are not his keeper. But the Holy Spirit is clear. Some things are legitimate that I might not should do.

It is not a question of whether or not it is right or wrong but how it will be perceived and affect others.

Some people were very vehemently opposed to eating meat previously offered to idols. Paul would rather not hurt his brother than enjoy his liberty.

Are you mature enough to realize that what you do affects others? Are you willing to restrain yourself from what you can legitimately do for the good of others?

Traveling to Peru, 50th, Good health, Thank you

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Thursday, September 7, 2023

Dearest friends,

God has been so good to Betty and me. We celebrated 50 years of marriage on August 18. God’s greatest gift He gave me as His son is Betty. We have been through sickness and health, richer and poorer. I have been at death’s door several times, but Betty has been by my side. We have had ups and downs in the ministry, but God gave us the closest, tight-knit family you can imagine. I am so thankful for this greatest of gifts.

Please pray about supporting Alignment Ministries if you do not. We spend every dime that comes in and more. Right now, those giving are helping national pastors in the Ukraine, Northern Ireland, Kenya, Peru, and a missionary in Peru. You have helped building projects in Mexico and Peru.

You have helped a Spanish church get started. You are helping us mentor men and women in Spanish and English worldwide. I want you to know that your giving makes a difference.

We need more support. I am not traveling and asking for help but preaching regularly in two different churches each week, so I will have to rely on you and the Lord to touch hearts and raise any money He wants given through this ministry.

I ask you to pray for us as we travel to Peru for three weeks. We will hold a complementary marriage retreat for Peruvian pastors and preach in the annual Pastor’s School that we started nearly 30 years ago.

My health report is still good. The kidney is functioning, and the growth isn’t growing any further. I get scans and bloodwork every three months. God has been extremely good to me.

If you know anyone who wants to sign up for our newsletter, please get in touch with me at wagardner@gmail.com.

God bless you all, and thank you so very much,

Austin and Betty

Gray Areas 7

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Romans 14:10-12 But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

Regardless of your position on the gray areas, you are not to judge your brother; he is your brother, even if you do not agree on these areas that are not as clearly defined in the Bible.

Notice the word the Holy Spirit uses. Why do you show contempt or set at naught your brother? That is done from both sides. The one who feels that he can eat meat and not respect the same days believes that somehow he is more spiritual, more free, and has a right to think less of his brother in Christ.

On the other side, the one who has taken a strict view will do the same. He will say that his brother doesn’t love God, isn’t separated or clean, etc. He will show contempt. The Holy Spirit wants to know why we do that.

Could it be that we do not understand that we will all stand before the real judge, and we aren’t needed in that capacity? Could it be that we do not understand that God is the only one who can call one of us into account for our lives?

What a great truth! Do not judge your brother. Do not show contempt for him. Realize that we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Realize that we will all give an accounting to Him!

The primary lesson here is: don’t have a bad attitude towards your brother, not if he takes a weaker or stronger stand than you do.

We can live together as a family and love each other. We can shock the world with our love for one another. We have been known for too long as being judgmental.

Let’s be known for what we are for more than what we are against!

Gray Areas 6

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Romans 14:7-9 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.

When considering what you will do on either side, please remember that it is not about you! Did you notice what the Scriptures say? We do not live to ourselves. It is about more than what makes me happy.

We live to and for the Lord. He is our Lord and Master.

We must be careful because many want to run to liberty and excesses in liberty. We forget that what we do affects others. It is about something other than getting to do what I want. It is about pleasing the Lord.

Some will say Well, what I do doesn't hurt anyone but me. It does not affect anyone but me, but it does.

You are not an island. What you say and do will affect others. You must always bear that in mind.

So yes, we are called to liberty. Yes, we have liberty, but we should never forget that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.

If you are judgmental, you are hurting your brother. You are hurting your brother if you play fast and loose with right and wrong.

Just remember you are not alone. What you do affects many people, and though you are free to do whatever you might not want to, just because you can does not mean that you should!

Gray Areas 5

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 12:15:01 GMT

I am putting this in the Grey Areas Category because it aptly describes much of what can happen. Charles Spurgeon wrote this many years ago. The bold type was, of course, added by me. Read this and consider.

we may be partakers in other men’s sins by tempting them to sin. This is a most hateful thing, and makes the man who practises it to become the devil’s most devoted drudge, servant, and slave. I have known such tempters of others,—old men who, from their youth up, had sinned in such a shameful way that their very looks were full of lechery.

There was a leer about their eyes that was almost enough to destroy all chastity that came beneath their glance; and their speech was full of the double entendre, insinuations, and innuendoes, which were almost worse than open profanity. I have known one such walking mass of putrefaction defile a whole parish; and when I have seen a boy walking with such a demon incarnate, or sitting down with him in the public-house,

I knew that the boy’s character would be ruined if that vile doctor in devilry could only instruct him in the vices with which he is himself so shamefully familiar. There are such fiends in London, and we could almost wish to have them all buried straight away, for they are Satan’s servants spreading wickedness all around them.

I do not suppose I am addressing one such dreadful creature; yet I know that some great sinners of that sort do come within these walls, and they will, of course, be very angry because of my allusion to them; yet I never knew a thief who was fond of a policeman, and I do not expect or wish to secure the approval of scoundrels whose evil character I am exposing.

If, sir, I have described thee, and thou wilt not repent of thy sin, I tell thee that the hottest place in hell is reserved for thee, for thou hast led young men to the alehouse, and taught them to drink the devil’s drugs, and to repeat thy foul blasphemies, and to imitate thy scandalous lasciviousness. Yet, ere it is too late, I beseech thee to repent of thy sin, that it may be blotted out by the precious blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, which cleanseth from all sin; for, if not, “other men’s sins” will cry out against thee for judgment at the bar of the Almighty.

I solemnly charge all of you, who have not committed this iniquity, never to do so; take care that you never say a word which might stain the innocence of a child’s mind, and that you never let fall an expression which might, in any way, be the means of leading another person into sin, for it is an easy thing for us to become partakers of other men’s sins by tempting them to commit iniquity.

C. H. Spurgeon, “Accomplices in Sin,” in The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit Sermons, vol. 53 (London: Passmore & Alabaster, 1907), 423–424.

Gray Areas 4

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 12:00:01 GMT

Romans 14:5-6 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.

We are now talking about their food and the days they respected or esteemed. The central truth to these two verses is, "Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind!"

There was no direct order or commandment here. Paul would have gladly given one had God-given one. He had no problem being straightforward, and we all know that. Simply put, there are some things that God has not told us what to do. He has given principles.

He even leaves us to arrive at our own conclusion if He has yet to speak strictly. He doesn't hint that one is right and the other wrong. He doesn't say that one is more spiritual than the other.

He says let every man be thoroughly convinced and let him do whatever he decides because he wants to do so for the Lord.

There were people in the church that wouldn't eat meat at all. Others would eat meat if they knew it had not been offered to idols. Others just ate the meat and enjoyed it. Which one was right? They hated idols, and all of them did. But what would please God? Paul says well, you pray and seek the Lord. Whatever He does in your heart, you obey. Just be fully convinced in your own mind.

People in the church were being pretty serious about keeping holy days like the Sabbath. Some would have wanted to keep honoring Saturday, others Sunday, and others thought every day was alike.

What is the correct answer? Paul says you seek the Lord. You pray and think it over. Then, when you are thoroughly convinced, you just do what you think is suitable for the Lord.

There are many grey areas in our lives. We do not have a direct word from the Lord. What are we to do? The answer is found in this passage. Seek the Lord. Be fully convinced in your own mind. Do whatever you do for Him.

Together we stand or separated we fall

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 13:00:01 GMT

Below you will read one of Aesop's fables I ran across in a Maxwell book. It is so true. The world we live in is cursed by those that will separate and divide us. The world could be reached with the gospel in our generation. Lives could be changed but Satan separates us from each other. Christians prefer to fight Christians than to fight Hell. What is up with that.

We have become so sectarian and forget what Jesus told His apostles.

Luke 9:49 And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us. 50 And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.

A story called “The Lion and the Three Bulls,” written by the Greek fable writer Aesop, gives insight into how important it is for teammates to be communicative. Three bulls lived together for a long time in a pasture. Though they ate and lived side by side, they never spoke with one another. One day a lion came along and saw the bulls. The lion was very hungry, but he knew that he could never attack three bulls at once because together they would overpower him and kill him. So the lion approached the bulls one at a time. Since one bull never knew what the others were doing, they didn’t realize that the lion was working to separate them. The lion, who was crafty, succeeded in dividing them, and with them successfully isolated, he attacked them individually. Thus he overcame all three of them and satisfied his hunger.

Aesop concluded the story by stating, “Union is strength.” But there can be no union without good communication.

John C. Maxwell, The 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player: Becoming the Kind of Person Every Team Wants (Grand Rapids, MI: HarperCollins Leadership, 2006).

Gray Areas 3

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Romans 14:4 Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.

This truth is the central truth in the series. The other believer is not your servant. He doesn't belong to you. You have no authority or power over him. I think that somewhere along the way, people began to believe that the church in Rome could tell other churches what to do.

None of us believe that. We know that each church is independent of any outside authority. Then pastors began to think they had the right to decide for their church members.

Like the Pharisees, we built "a fence around the law" to ensure no one sinned. Soon, we became a group of critical judges walking around, ensuring everyone did things like we did.

"They don't need to read the Bible and ask God what to do. They do not need to seek the Lord. They need to ask me. We never intended to think or act like this, but look at us now."

No one means for it to come out like that. In practice, it ends up being just a spirit in our churches because they do what the pastor says while looking, but they don't always do what the pastor thinks when he isn't watching.

Wouldn't it be better if God's people would seek out the Lord and His will, and then they would do it all the time because God would convince them?

Now I know what the more spiritual are thinking. I know because I have already been there. You are right, but people do better when God teaches them. I want them to live holy lives, too.

The way I do things is the best, or I wouldn't be doing it that way. But that isn't the determining factor. If you tell them what to do and live critically, they will not mature to do what He wants.

He began the good work in them. Philippians 1:6.

He has predestined them to be conformed to the image of His Son Romans 8:29.

Can we trust God to get people to where they should be? We should still preach to them what the Bible says. We should still show them but leave it to God to change them. We are not the Holy Spirit, and they are not our servants.

Paul left room here for liberty to decide. He gives guidelines but accepts both. What do you think?

Gray Areas 2

wagardner@gmail.com (Austin Gardner) — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 13:24:56 GMT

Romans 14:2-3 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.

The discussion in Romans 14 is over what to eat or not to eat. One believer feels eating would be okay, and another says it is not. How are we to react to these "gray areas" and our treatment of each other? We are family! These questionable things do not determine our salvation. Here, we are not talking about salvation, the blood of Christ, the Word of God, etc. We are talking about eating herbs. Do we eat them or not?

So how are we to treat each other? We often divide over these things, but the Holy Spirit says one is not to despise or look down on the other, and the second brother is not to judge the first. There is no Biblical talk about dividing over these areas!

There is a significant problem in our churches and among brothers in Christ. The one who takes the liberty to do a certain thing begins to think that he is more mature and flaunts his liberty before others. He acts superior. He acts like the one who chooses not to eat the herbs is dumb. He mocks him.

That is not what God tells us to do in this passage. He tells us not to despise or look down on his brother.

The other brother goes to the opposite extreme. He thinks the other person doesn't love God, isn't pleasing God, and cannot have the power of God in his life. He seems to indicate that the other brother hasn't read his Bible, hasn't prayed about it, is living in open rebellion, and is not a good Christian.

That, again, is not what God tells us to do in this passage. He tells us not to judge or be critical.

There are non-essential areas in our lives. We should agree on the great foundational truths and give our brothers their liberty in Christ.