Trial by fire

For many people in my year who had stepped up for leadership in CCF, we weren't always properly trained or prepared. Even though I had many encouraging upper years who I constantly learned from, I wasn't mentored to lead things like bible studies, prayer meetings, committee, etc. I suppose formal mentorship is not a strength in the fellowship. Though I can see more improvements now, it is still an issue.

Therefore, many of us had a considerable rough time in our first serving experiences in CCF. I remembered that the first bible study I lead was very intimidating, especially since there was a particular upper year who was always quiet and had that serious look =P. I was asking myself if this upper year was upset at my poor bible study leading skills. My first time in committee was rough and tough like an overdone steak. I was appointed on a summer term, and it was my 2B term in Engineering (and I took an extra course haha). Most of the committee was inexperienced, and somehow pretty much all our fellowship leaders were struggling with something that term which cause most of us to burned out. Definitely, there was some spiritual influence. Furthermore, I was in the elected committee for next year, and it was a very inexperienced committee (only one person had previous experience as appointed). To add more to the fire, an issue came out which caused hurt and division among us. That issue escalated when finals came, so I had to bus to Toronto for a meeting in between exams.

Those times were frustrating and discouraging, and some of us were losing sleep because of our concern for the fellowship. It would have been so nice if I was more prepared to handle the situation, or that we had experienced leaders who could intervened and lead us in unity to solve this issue. But, it was pretty much this group of blind inexperienced committee going through the a tough trial. By the grace of God, things eventually were resolved, and CCF hasn't seen an issue of similar magnitude ever since.

Even though those times were really difficult, I rejoice (Philippians 4:4). I experienced quite a bit of growth in Christ during those times as I felt very pressed and it really pushed me to rely on God alone. Reading the bible seemed so refreshing especially during those times. Many of my leadership skills were developed. And I will not change anything to make things easier because of so many valuable lessons learned.

I am not writing to say that leadership is always this difficult :P, as this was a very unique situation. But that in all circumstances, God is in control, and it is only by His grace and power that leading is possible.

Currently, CCF still struggle with the lack of leadership. And I just want to encourage for those who haven't serve in the fellowship to step up in obedience to the Lord. Each of us who called ourselves disciples of Christ, is blessed with a new life in Christ, and we live for His glory (1 Cor. 10:31). Let's devote ourselves fully to the work He has entrusted to each of us, and God is faithful and He will always supplied more than enough for us.

Not everyone has to be in committee or leading bible studies in CCF, but there must be something that God is calling each of us to do. The more we read His word, and  the more we spend time knowing Him, the more likely we are able to discern what we should be doing.

In the end, God does not need us to do His work, as He is all powerful and He can make anything happen within less than a second. But God chooses to use us as carriers of the message of the gospel, so that through us, the power of the Holy Spirit flows to change people's lives. So serving is not a duty nor something that raise our status, but it is a privilege to be co-partners serving God for His Kingdom and Glory! We were dead in our transgressions, and objects of wrath, but by God's grace we are made alive with Christ (Eph 2:1-5) so that we are reconciled to Him and we can partake in God's work here on earth.

As Christians, we are in the process of being conformed into the image of our Lord and Saviour, Christ Jesus. This process often faces obstacles, and can be painful and slow. Part of this process is that we are used as instruments by God to do His work so that we exercise the gifts that He has given to us, so that our character can be molded, and that in our weaknesses His strength will be displayed in us.

I learned mainly with trial by fire, just jumping to the water, taking a leap of faith trusting that God will work. I don't think this should be the case for everything. The truth is that, when we put ourselves in challenging situations (outside of our comfort zone) is when we learn the most. But always seek guidance from experienced people (if they are available), take advantage of the resources you have, and do the best you can for the Lord. Trust Him, and He will not give you more than you can handle. Remember, it is not by our power, but by His, so it is ok.

The point is, what are you doing with what God has entrusted you with?