Acts 13:1-5

There are times when we feel like we are supposed to do something for the Lord, yet it is always wise to seek godly counsel. Scripture states that there is safety in the abundance of counselors. Here, we see a group of prophets and teachers gathered together when the Holy Spirit spoke to them, revealing that He had commissioned Barnabas and Saul for a specific purpose. After additional prayer and fasting, the group laid hands on them and sent them out.

In my 45 years of involvement in church and ministry, I have observed that there are those who were sent out and those who simply went out. They are not the same. The Holy Spirit is not confused about what He is calling us to do. Yet, because we all see only in part, it is wise to seek counsel and confirmation before making life-changing decisions. We only go through this life once, and in the words of Myles Munroe, “A great tragedy in life is being successful at the wrong assignment.”

My father-in-law used to talk about “young bucks” who would come through the church full of excitement, eager to go out and set the world on fire for Christ, only to have to come back for matches. Entering into ministry is not something to be taken lightly. There is a refining process involved before the Lord releases us into greater responsibility.

The first ministry we have is our own sanctification process. We should never try to shortcut that process, because it will cost us later. Character is forged in the refining fire. It is that character that enables us to remain steadfast in our faith when we face life's challenges. When we are ready, just as we see in this account with Barnabas and Saul, the Holy Spirit will speak at the right time and send us out.

Jesus said that many are called but few are chosen. Why is that? Because few are willing to submit to the refining process. Those who go out on their own often fall into traps set by the enemy. Sadly, we read about some of them in the news—individuals who built large ministries but ultimately succumbed to character flaws that brought harm to themselves and to the body of Christ.

Stay where God has planted you until He makes it clear that it is time to move. There is no shame in waiting on God's timing. In fact, some of the greatest preparation happens in the hidden seasons. When the Lord opens the door and sends you out, you will go not merely with enthusiasm, but with His authority, His anointing, and the character necessary to fulfill the assignment He has entrusted to you.

God is far more concerned with who we are becoming than with what we are accomplishing. Before He entrusts us with greater influence, He often works deeply within our hearts. The waiting season is not wasted time—it is preparation time. Rather than striving to make something happen, trust God's process. When He sends you, no one can stop what He has ordained.