In an age of Big buildings, Big budgets and Big bucks we must remember that in God’s economy bigger is NOT always better. If crowds alone were a gauge for God to view success than He would have “by passed” the woman at the well, the lonely leper looking for love while longing to be touched by the Lord and Zacheaus who went “out on a limb” to see God. Zacheaus went out and Jesus invited him in for supper. God responds to faith not fans.
If crowds were everything than Jesus would have not only by-passed but BLASTED the woman trying to touch the hem of Him and just camped continously at four and five thousand seat venues. God did both but why not just one? For starters, Jesus is good but better yet - God! Two, His identity was not found in crowds but Christ knew it was the acceptance and approval alone of Almighty God that matter most. The beauty about God is yes, He could hold a crowd in the palm of His Hand; but He also knew that substance should never be sacrificed for sheer size.
Evangelist Charles Spurgeon said he would prefer to have ten men sold out to Jesus than a thousand there but not really there. My friend, Dr Ergun Caner said “just because 1,000 show up for a service doesn’t make it a church.” Crowds don’t equate a church. Christ PLUS blood bought believers equal Church. This is not to be miscontrued for blasting the mega church and certainly not saying its wrong to have a large platform as an evangelist but we in ministry must always evaluate our motives. Some churches have held a beer blast on “Bring a Friend Day” just to attract crowds. Be careful what you wish for because those churches got their crowd but not sure if Christ was well pleased.
JUST BEING REAL - too many preachers are feeling worthless. Some of the anxiety stems from the issue of crowds. They are some of the most decent, compassionate, Christ honoring folks I know but feel like failures. In the wise words of Dr Adrian Rogers: “God didn’t call us to fill the auditorium but He did call us to fill the pulpit.” When Christ called us to minister (for most) it was for Christ (not crowds). Our success is in His Salvation. Its His relationship not our resume. In my political career, too often I witnessed folks come to Congress hoping to change Washington. Sadly, more often than not; Washington changed them. In ministry, we got in it for Christ and may we retire or die chasing Christ.
After nearly 30 yrs of sharing the Gospel I have learned just one or two things. One, God alone is God and no other. Secondly, I believe it takes just as much (if not more) obedience to be faithful in smaller matters as it does with larger, more visible ministry. Yes, leadership is lonely and with more responsibility comes greater accountability. Satan is sneaky because he can subconciously tempt us to fail even while doing the Work of the Lord. Some folks stay in a ministry position or platform for all the wrong reasons. Some may hold on for ego more than commitment to Christ. In confidence, I heard a visible preacher once say that he lives right not because the Ten Commandments demand it but because he couldn’t fathom not seeing himself on television. Hello? If that don’t make your stomach turn, knees buckle and evaluate what matters most than you may very well be the next casualty in line.
Some of my faithful friends have had the privilege to preach to the masses. Most have not. Some appear on world-wide television, speak on radio with several states listening at once, preached to packed crowds and even rubbed shoulders with one or two notable figures. Regardless, for those that do or don’t is not the issue. This post is not geared for the sinner today as much as the servant of God. Not laity but leaders. Again, nothing is wrong with speaking to masses. What is dangerous is when we speak - is it for self or Savior? Our success is based on an EMPTY tomb. Nothing more - nothing less.
This post is not against big ministry but a SMALL mindset. The Bible is clear “to whom much is given much is required” but there is no room for arrogance in Kingdom work. Those that have been blessed to speak at more prominent places in ministry will also tell you they didn’t start out at the “Super Bowl” but in Parks & Rec, junior varsity, college and pre-season with blood, sweat and tears. To their credit, they also travelled eight hours by car to speak to 11 teens three states away known only by God and the youth pastor who extended the invite. They also know what it’s like to speak to one shackled in prison forgotten by society and to minister to ministers who had already wrote their resignation before the revival we preached and unless God moved in their midst they informed they were already packed moving too and quitting the ministry. We need to PRAY for each other. Regardless, if you are reaching the masses or feel reduced to ministering to mosquittos we need to push, pull and pray for all in ministry and as disciples of Christ.
God grants various talents to different people. God assigns what we do and where we work. We are in a race - NOT to compete but COMPLIMENT each other as the Body of Christ and complete the race He asked us to run. Don’t look to the right or left but run straight ahead, stay in your lane (because disqualification comes) when you desire to run another’s race or step into their lane. Keep in mind that bigger is not better and yes, many who are first now will be last later. Live to build His Kingdom not yours. Let God worry about your legacy because all that matters is what we did with what He loaned us. Did we promote Him or try in vain to elevate self? Big buildings amount to ETERNAL EYESORES if God is not genuinely God of that ministry. Ministry is just a mess if His message doesn’t resonate and redeem souls. In closing, don’t compare and don’t chase crowds but Christ. One thing I learned about “Crowds” is that they are not always faithful but most certainly fickle. Here today and gone tomorrow.
CONSIDER CHRIST how the crowd on Palm Sunday hailed Him as King one day and exactly a week later nailed Him to the cross. Crowds are like a dysfunctional relationship because if they are “up” you are up but if they are down than you are down. Why? Because your identity is tied to a fallen crowd and not the Faithful Christ. But if you are in it for Christ you win either way.
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT: If you are in ministry at a “large” community of believers DARE to be DIFFERENT and donate your time and minister to a smaller group on ocassion (out of the blue), speak to a church that couldn’t pay you a dime and build up that struggling minister down the street who never once addressed an audience larger than 44 in the history of his/her ministry. The key is to love on him/her and make them feel like Jesus would - as if he were the most important person in the world. If your youth group is running 300 and you never introduced yourself to the youth pastor with less than 25 at their church BE LIKE JESUS and invite them to lunch, buy their meal and befriend them. Actually, some of the tension between ministers and ministries may subside when we come together, break bread and learn about one another. In case you missed the memo: Ministry is lonely and that brother or sister may very well minister to you more than you can imagine today or a future tomorrow.
At the foot of the cross we are all the same but those whom look down on others as “small” because they preach their heart out to a miniscule crowd should never underestimate God or those they disregard and mock because in God’s economy those ministering in “small places” are not only bigger than some give them credit but quite possibly, just as anointed, passionate and gifted (regardless of the size of your sanctuary). As my friends down south would say: “Frank, that is GOOD PREACHING!” Plus, to belittle someone is to “be little” yourself.
My first pastor, Dr E.J. Jack after 50 years of ministry, probably never once spoke to an audience more than 150. Almost every time, I get up to speak (regardless, if its television, radio, conference, concert, crusade, church, or a dorm at a camp with 6 people) I remember him, my present Pastor Marvin Harris, Rev. Jim Wood my former youth minister and the countless folks who helped me in my walk with God. These men and many others would “run circles” around me as a Christian and clergy. They sowed, God watered and together we watch the Lord bring the harvest. Crowds are not bad but if your ministry is based more on performance than passion to God, more of a show than a service, work but not worship, if its a career more than a calling than we are on “thin ice.” I have found a solid foundation with Jesus - The Rock but if we desire to be a “rock star” we are on tour with the wrong band. Today, we really don’t need any more “stars” we just need the Son.
I love Michael English and he is back singing with the GAITHER VOCAL BAND. Tenor, Terry Franklin nails this classic song by the GVB and I dedicate this video to all ministers (regardless of their influence or income) but especially, to those faithful preachers, Sunday School teachers, youth ministers and volunteers who often wonder while their mind wanders if their labors make a difference? By God’s grace - YOU DO! The crown comes from Christ not crowds. Truly, “Little is Much when God is in it - Labor NOT for wealth or fame - there’s a crown and you can win it - If you go in Jesus’ Name.”
Travelling is not only part of my job but one of my greatest JOYS! My life resembles PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES (literally). Travelling is not always glamorous but it is indeed God’s grace that I get to roll (much less FLY).
When I worked on Capitol Hill, one of the highlights for me was flying two days on one of the Presidential aircraft. On this particular trip, I was honored to fly on a Boeing 757 and it was typically designated as “AIR FORCE TWO.” More often than not, the Boeing 747’s are the primary planes designated for POTUS. The government purchased FOUR Boeing 757’s and frequently fly the Vice President, First Lady, Secretary of State and/or occasional Congressional leadership and Cabinet level staff. However, not all runways can accommodate the massive 747 jumbo jet so the President also flies on a smaller aircraft (757 and even Gulfstream jets periodically).
When I flew on one of the planes (757) in April 2000, we left Andrews Air Force Base in Clinton, MD and flew to Fort Bragg, NC and spent the night. I was blessed to sleep in rooms designated for colonels and above while armed military personnel and the United States Secret Service protected the plane the entire time we slept. The next morning, we left North Carolina first thing after smacking down on Carolina BBQ the night before and flew to Patrick Air Force Base in sunny Florida (Cape Canaveral). Ironically, that morning we landed on the same runway that the Space Shuttle returns home from orbit. WOW - tell me, I didn’t feel like Forrest Gump! Once again, a glorified goofball with the “Big Boys!”
The plane was big, bold and beautiful and painted white with the bright blue fuselage depicting “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” in black letters. Truly, it resembled as President Ronald Reagan described: “The flying White House.” It is also one of the planes that our Commander in Chief flies on occassion and the fact is, if he were flying in a hang glider it would be considered: “Air Force One.”
Since leaving the perks, pay and prestige of politics and no longer employed with the government my main mode of transportation as an evangelist these days is Southwest Airlines. I LOVE Southwest for a couple reasons. For starters, they are cheap, casual, comfortable, courteous and convenient to reach most cities. But the best part - you get to pick your own seat (that didn’t sound right)! 
Honestly, both “Air Force One” and Southwest are “first class” when you are in the will of God. On one I was employed by the government but today I am empowered by God.
I love their advertisement that boasts: “You’re now FREE to move about the country.” The Bible notes in Romans 8:1-4: “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” In the Bible we find a BIG word called JUSTIFICATION. One preacher from days gone by correctly broke the word down as if to mean “JUST AS IF” I never sinned.
God replaces our guilt for His grace. Guilt makes one cower in the corner while grace grants courage to flat out FLY to new levels conquering old devils. Our sin cost God’s only Son but because He died we could live in this life and the one to come. When we find Jesus as our Savior, Sacrifice and Substitute - He enables through Salvation (like Southwest) to move about the Country and makes us a peculiar people with purpose, passion and purity.
Sin restricts but “who the Son sets free is FREE indeed!” The Bible notes: “While we were yet sinners - Christ died for us.” If that doesn’t give flight to your wings than you are carrying too much baggage (guilt). Sin is a rope tied way too tight. It is bondage that leaves one looking in the past and not with expectancy to the future. It is a weight that will hold you down emotionally, physically and spiritually. However, when we find forgiveness from God we are liberated to be, go and do what we were created. When forgiveness floods our soul we are free to fly to heights we only dreamed and true “success” begins and ends with faith in Jesus.
THE WORD OF THE DAY: “Why be grounded when you can encounter God’s great grace!” Today, trade your guilt for His grace, your shame for His Game plan and may you no longer be grounded on the runway of life but taxi, take off and tower with God’s power to SOAR like you never have before! The control tower has cleared you, the Captain has cleansed you and because of the rich, red blood of Christ (like Southwest) truly, you are now FREE to move about the Country.
frank & AIR FORCE TWO
Folks stop me periodically and say: “Frank, I love Jesus, I am going to Heaven but I don’t feel obligated to go to church. What do you think?” Perhaps you have had heard a similar statement too. Some suggest salvation is enough. Well, before I answer let me remind you what God says on this subject. He is the Authority (not me or others in ministry).
The Bible is bold and crystal clear about church attendance: “not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more, as ye see the day drawing nigh.” Salvation is found by faith in Christ alone and we can add nothing to or subtract from to gain access to an eternal Paradise with God. However, church attendance should go hand in hand as kids of the King! If you are in a marriage and never eat a meal with your spouse except for the night of your wedding you are struggling to say the least.
Iron sharpens iron and it is imperative that we trust God together and be encouraged by one another. The local church exists from an outline I borrowed years ago from Dr Adrian Rogers: Exalt the Savior, Encourage the Saints, Evangelize the Sinner and remind all to Expect the Son because Jesus is coming back! We find many reasons why we should worship together (especially in these dark, difficult days). Here are just a couple:
1) God’s PRAISE: The Lord is worthy to be praised. If we can sit in the snow cheering with 82,000 fans at a football game we most certainly need to applaud for the Almighty, cheer for Christ, root for the Redeemer and give a standing ovation for our Savior! Give me a “J” - give me a “E” - give me a “S” - give me a “U” - give me a “S” what does that spell: JESUS! When we worship the Lord in our mess - I have found after the preacher’s message many times my problems dissapear and I see Christ more clearly. We need to be together to encourage one another, be a blessing to one another and weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice. Truly, it is good to be in the House of the Lord.
2) God’s PROTECTION: The above video is powerful. No church membership (or lack of) will forfeit your access to Heaven but you are isolating yourself like an island when you choose to face life alone and not with the help of God and His People. We resemble the zebra in this video and Satan is a “roaring lion, waiting to devour and destroy” anyone and anything in his path. We are an open target when we fail to move with the Body of Christ. By God’s grace the zebra made it but most would not be so fortunate.
3) God’s PRAYER: It took me awhile but I have learned a couple things about prayer. First, it is a privilege to speak to Father God. The President may not know me but God does! Secondly, prayer is more me listening to God than me talking to God. Third, prayer gives me peace, purpose and power. You will never lose your footing when you have been on your knees. When we kneel before God - we can STAND before any man. We find courage with prayer. It has been said: “Seven days without prayer makes one WEAK.” Jesus noted His House was a place of prayer. Without question, I gain great peace with prayer but the beauty of hearing the petitions of other people’s prayers thrills my heart and I know touches the Heart of God. The irony is that God prays for us. Jesus told Peter: “Satan desires to sift you like wheat (translation: Kick your butt, embarrass you and put you six feet under) but Jesus goes on to say: “But I have prayed for you” to basically be a VICTOR not a victim. Sadly many in society worshipping lifeless gods chasing false religions pray to a god that can’t hear them and I have a God who not only hears my humble prayers but prays for this glorified goof-ball! As Ric Flair would say: “WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
4) God’s PEACE: Sure, God can speak to us as individuals but He often gives a relevation to others that will benefit the group. When one is down the others may be up (vice versa). Satan wants to make you think that you are the only one going through tough times. When you are isolated and alone you are tempted to buy that lie. When we are surrounded by the saints of God we find not only protection but peace in the process. Many folks have endured what you may be facing. We find great comfort to think we are not weird, wrong or weak while “waiting on the Lord” in a fallen world.
5) God’s PURPOSE: We exist to worship the Lord by our life and lips. A boat can get off course easily and when you worship alone you may miss the mark. Christians are to love each other (even when feeling un-lovely). We graciously rebuke when one is wrong and we politely point back to Christ our Compass when we wander off course. Water, waves and intense weather have a way to lead us away from God’s assignment. With numbers we find safety, solace and our schedule. We must report regularly for our orders to go where God says go and be all He desires us to be. The Lord is our Lighthouse and God is our guide but He uses the church to help steer us to the Promised Land.
5) God’s POWER: We tap into God’s power when we are with fellow believers. Sports teams have been known to be down three quarters of a game but when the momentum shifts they turn the tide and win! In these last days, we must assemble as often as possible. Church attendance doesn’t equal SALVATION but it does help with our SUCCESS. The church has taken some shots over the years. Her sail is torn, the paint has peeled and the bow at times looked broken. But the blessing (like that Ray Boltz classic) is the Anchor Holds (though the ship’s been battered). The Anchor holds though the sails are torn. I’ve fallen on my knees, I’ve faced the raging seas but the Anchors holds despite the storms!”
6) God’s PROVISION: God often uses OTHERS to bless you! There is power in numbers and folks with no finances can find a helping hand to those down and out. Folks with no food have been known to find help to feed hungry stomachs at home. Those with no shelter have found place to lay their head in the midnight hour. Those seeking employment may bump into a job recruiter teaching a Sunday School class. Those trying to sell a house may have a member in the church who works for Century 21. The fact is when we cease to assemble and worship at the church we often hinder our chances to see God work in our midst.
Lastly, we remember God’s PLACE: He is in our heart but Heaven is our Home. Sometimes, when alone we forget where we have been but also where we are going. We are pilgrims passing through. We are adopted to the Family of God and because of His great grace we are kids of the King. If you own a business or minister at a church -Remember, we are out to build His Kingdom not ours. I love the fact that KINGdom has “King” in it. Christianity, Christians and Church is always about Christ. Its ALL His and may we like Jesus at age 12, be about our Father’s Business.
By attending church we worship, fuel our faith, get a glimpse of God’s Glory and remember we are winners not wannabees because we are on the winning side. Christ is our compass and fellow Christians cheer us on to remember Heaven is around the corner. This week if you haven’t been to church in awhile visit a Bible believing, soul saving service this Sunday and you will encounter God’s Praise, Protection, Prayers, Provision, Purpose, Power and may we see your FACE in His Place (church & Heaven).
Ruth and I, will be leaving this Thursday for the Dominican Republic and since baby Andrew was born in January we have yet to spend an evening away together. We are looking forward to spending a couple days away for some R & R. Without question, we will miss our little munchkin but before we hit the beach I wanted to share with you a post that like coffee has been brewing in me for some time.
Two of my friends, Ken Weikel and John Flatley in my hometown of Waldorf, MD both own and operate Chick-fil-a stores and both are BOOMING in business! But then again, I have yet to hear of one or see a store that the drive thru is not wrapped around the building like a boa around its prey. Most folks know the amazing story how Truett Cathy, a commited Christian started with a humble dream and watched it grow to astronomical heights. We all know that they “didn’t invent the chicken - just the chicken sandwhich.” At least that was a more honest statement than VP Al Gore saying he invented the internet.
“Chick-fil-a” has been heralded as “Christian Chicken.” The food is delicious, the service is priceless, their stores exude cleanliness and their mission is obvious: Honor God by serving quality food with a servant’s heart. Nearly 20 years ago my friend Ken who attends my home church and we met in Sunday School told us that he was starting a restaurant in our local mall. Some even thought he was “out to lunch” but man was that brother from another mother right. Ken knew what most of us didn’t that Chick-fil-a was going to be a household name even in my home state of Maryland. To Ken’s credit he overseas one of the top three stores on the East Coast and unless the Lord comes back they don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon! As my buddy, Evangelist Robbie Robison from TN says: “Keep kickin chicken!”
First of all they are successful on several fronts but here are a few “nuggets” in a nutshell. 1) CLOSED on SUNDAY’s. Their competition and customers mocked them at first but they knew their commitment to Christ was more important than critics, crowds or cash! They honored God and God has honored them. Ironically, it is a fact that Chick-fil-a consistently outsells the competition in six days while others are operating seven. One, they get more money and two, they get a day off! God is good like that.
2) COMMITTED to SERVICE: Notice how they respond: “My pleasure.” They grasped the Biblical truth that the greatest among you will be the servants. Plus, in order to get up is to go down and willing to serve. Ironically, their humility and hard work personally has now helped honor them professionally. Wow - applying God’s rules works!
3) CREATED in SIMPLICITY: They don’t serve pizza, lasagna, ribs, steak, sushi or spaghetti. They have stuck with one or two things and hammered it home. You don’t have to be everything to every body to attract anyone to your vision or values. They have built an empire around Christ and chicken but I must admit their seasonal added Peach milkshake is “off the hook.” Less is more and more will flock to you or your outreach if you are known consistently for one (maybe two things) not attempting to be a buffet hoping for a blessing.
4) COST is SATISFACTORY: What I mean by this is that their affordable prices enable almost all walks of life to enjoy their product. Plus, you get plenty of BANG for your buck! Everyone from Hollywood to Harvard to practically homeless can appreciate and afford their food. The beauty is regardless of who walks in the door they are taught to treat everyone the same (regardless of clout, class or cash). Something we all would do well to learn and implement in our lives.
In closing, I have never heard anyone else say this but by remaining closed on Sunday’s not only does it honor God but in sales terms it is called a “take away.” Folks want what they cannot have. Subconciously, all folks realize now that they are closed on Sundays and if you want their chicken you better get it today because they could be closed tomorrow. This is not manipulation but their motivation all along is to honor God and serve society.
This fits in with another powerful point. Over the years, I have learned long ago unless you put a value on you - others won’t value you! ATTN: Young ladies - be a woman with virtue and men will take you seriously. Sadly, too many guys will wait in line to seduce and sleep with you but very few will wait in line to walk the aisle with you if every guy and their brother has been with you. In high school, I lived for God, loved on others and waited for sex until marriage. Ironically, my senior year I was crowned PROM KING at a public school with 1,200 students. Honor God and He will honor you. Dare to be different and do what needs to be done (regardless of the initial cost).
Despite all the obvious, the CHICKEN is SUPER but more importantly, I cannot help but think that CHRIST is SATISFIED with the way this business has been run. They are not perfect but a magnificent model that all of us can learn from in dealing with others, serving society and a daily desire to honor God by the way we walk and talk. Christian or not they got killer chicken but even a better staff, standards and mission statement. For most (if not all) that work there don’t just view it as a job must a ministry to serve God and serve you!
It has been said that those that wait to the 11th hour to make things right with God often die at 10:45. Tomorrow is not guaranteed and the Bible reminds us with great urgency to not neglect so great a salvation. Jesus said: “Today, is the day of salvation.” Christ could come in the middle of the night and it would be too late to make things right in the morning. More than chicken we need to be ready to stand before Christ. Because you never know when that opportunity is gone forever!
It’s not Sunday - so get some of their food TODAY! But more importantly, taste and see that the Lord is good.
Clay Crosse is an amazing man. Not just because he has TEN Number One hits over the years but because he is authentic, transparent and best of all forgiven. His hit songs include: “I Surrender All” and a host of others dominated the radio airwaves during the 1990’s and early 2000.
It was my pleasure to invite Clay to come to Dunkirk Baptist Church in Maryland when I was Minister of Evangelism from 1999-2001. Clay was at the top of the charts professionally but like many struggling personally. As humans, we not only all fall short but each struggle with something. Some deal with it while others pretend it doesn’t exist. Some wrestle with alcohol, drugs, gambling, extortion and the list is endless.
Clay dealt with pornography and this is something that most men have wrestled with at some time or another. For some it is a constant battle and to his credit - Clay confronted it, confessed it and now delivered by God’s great grace. I have learned that we all have a weakness. For Superman it was kyrptonite - what is your weakness. It is so true that unless we deal with it privately it will deal with us publicly.
The church is notorious for sweeping sin under the carpet and the things we need to talk about the most many in ministry want to discuss the least. For those that do discuss it often handle it incorrectly as leaders and often ostracize the offender and if not careful can cripple them opposed to craddle them back to victorious living in Christ.
Earlier this year, Clay graciously accepted my invite to be a guest on my radio program “FRANKLY SPEAKING” that aired on American Family Radio. Future guests will include: Michael Tait from NEWSBOYS, Will Graham (Billy Graham’s grandson), Matthew West among others but this interview with Clay will both bless you and help you or your friend’s find freedom with this important issue.
Clay discusses his days as a former FED EX driver and stepping out in faith to become a household name in Christian music. He shares about his love for the Lord, his intense admiration for his wife and their mutual ministry now both singing and speaking around the world about the importance of holy hearts and homes. He mentions his respect for U2, Michael English and scores of others that inspired him to sing.
This is a no judge zone and what I love about Clay is that he is not only forgiven but a friend to a goof ball like me. Friends, there is VICTORY in God’s grace and freedom in forgiveness. Don’t delay confess today. Visit www.HolyHomes.org
In 1981, while making the major motion picture “E.T.” the directors of the movie contacted the candy M&M’s and politely asked if they could use their candy in the film. M&M’s responded with a resounding “No!” They then asked Reese’s Pieces and they had nothing to lose and everything to gain and said: “Yes.”
Who knew that the movie: “E.T. - The Extra Terrestial” would become the highest grossing film of its time. M&M’s missed out on free publicity and it resurrected the franchise for Reese’s. Ironically, today one cannot seperate Reese’s Pieces from the alien itself.
The best way to get promoted professionally is to be humble enough to promote others personally. Jesus taught us that he that desires to be first must become last. We are never more like Christ when we give and forgive. It is not found in Scripture but I wouldn’t surprised if a close third is to PROMOTE OTHERS!
Artists and bands are coming to me more than ever and asking me for an endorsement. I vowed to the Lord years ago if I could ever help someone else I would. Plus, it has been said: “greatness” is stopping to do something for others that they can do very little (if anything) for you. The key is being willing to “give” not out to get. But the beauty is by giving you actually gain. It is my pleasure to bless others and attempt to encourage them in their walk and inspire them to get to the next level. Sadly, I am learning a disturbing trend that many of these same bands are not even getting the endorsement from their pastor. It’s not that they have dark secrets in their closet but many in ministry are either too busy or too insecure to promote someone else.
Personally, to me promoting others is now second nature and it resembles tithing. First of all, “to whom much is given much is required.” When God gives you a platform it is not for you to say “look at me” but we need to be pointing folks to God and saying how can we help you? Secondly, you cannot out give God. Third, when you invest in others you actually are investing in yourself. Lastly, when you pause to promote someone else you are not only displaying Christ-like character but the folks you are helping will respect you more than ever. We all know that being called of God is more important than man’s endorsement but the best way to get blessed is to be a blessing to others.
Dr. Johnny Hunt - SBC President is one of my heroes. He has un-selfishly promoted literally thousands of ministers and ministries. He took time to endorse folks when if anyone could hide behind the excuse: “I am too busy” he would get a free pass. However, he is both accessible and approachable and like our Lord is a true leader. Throughout his entire ministry, Dr Hunt constantly elevated others and you could find his endorsement all over the Country for various preachers, evangelists, musicians, etc. For those of us that are blessed to know him and been endorsed by him is both precious and priceless. The irony is when he ran for Southern Baptist President two years ago; he was so loved by countless Christians, clergy and musicians across America that he won hands down and in charge of overseeing some 16 Million members. I have never heard anyone else say this but the observation is true. Dr Johnny Hunt promoted others and God promoted him.
“The Prayer of Jabez” talks about enlarging our tent and/or territory. Without question, what you do for others God will do for you. Ministry is about Jesus and others. We need to get back to the basics but the fact is when we promote the Lord and others - God will promote you. Zig Ziglar was right when he said: “You can get whatever you want out of life as long as you help others get what they want first.”
Outside of God’s grace one reason I am having the time of my life ministering across the Country at churches, conferences, cruises, camps, concerts and now with COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL is in part because I have done my best to promote others. One of my favorite movies is “Brian’s Song” and it was based on the book: “I AM THIRD.” It’s amazing at how succesful folks can become when we are willing to die to self, live for the Lord and promote others. Who dreamt you could come in first when willing to be last. Today, promote someone else (even if it hurts in the flesh but do it by faith) and watch both parties involved win!
The past weekend was busy to say the least but its an honor to share God’s Word and love on people. Last week, on Wednesday, August 26, I preached at First Baptist Church of Accokeek in Maryland www.FBCOA.org and on Thursday morning, I was a guest on air LIVE on WWGB 1030 AM Radio in Washington, DC. On Friday, August 28, I spoke to nearly 1,000 people at a Prayer Conference in Alexandria, Virginia at 8 PM. The place came unglued and gave God a standing ovation! It is always a treat when the Lord shows up and shows off! Go God!
The very next morning, I had a 9 AM flight out of Baltimore to Houston, Texas where I had the high honor to preach two services at Harvest Point Church in Nacogdoches, TX. Dr. Rick Scarborough is the senior pastor and also founder of “VISION AMERICA.” Pastor Rick is a powerful preacher and patriot. He loves God & Country almost as much as anyone I know. It was my honor to meet Dr Scarborough back in March at Bailey Smith’s Evangelism Conference in North Carolina and he was one of the speakers along with SBC President - Dr Johnny Hunt, Evangelist Junior Hill and Bob Smith. Pastor Rick is a nationally known preacher and he flies to CO this week to be a guest on Dr James Dobson’s “FOCUS ON THE FAMILY.”
Please pray for me this weekend as I drive four hours on Friday, September 4 and speak four times in three days at a Christian Singles Retreat in beautiful Jummonville, Pennsylvania. My prayer is to exalt Christ, encourage Christians and remind singles the key is to not “find Mr or Miss Right” but becoming the “right” person in the process.
The following weekend, Sat September 12, I will catch a plane and fly to Greenville, SC and preach a three service, two day revival at Double Springs Baptist Church in Townville, SC. On Monday, September 14, I have been invited to be a guest for an hour on NITELINE TV in Greenville, SC and we will tape Monday afternoon. I am tentatively invited to leave from there and drive 2.5 hours to Atlanta, GA that same evening and be a guest on “ATLANTA LIVE” - WATC 57. This would be my second time on ATLANTA LIVE and the guest confirmed that same night already is Will Graham (Dr. Billy Graham’s grandson). How cool would that be. Only to drive back to Greenville, SC that night at midnight and fly back to Washington, DC first thing in the morning. I was invited to preach at a Pastors Conference in St Louis, MO on Friday, September 18-19 but that got cancelled. Rest is good.
Will post another blog soon but in the interim, please pray for strength and stamina as I study the Scriptures this week and desire to be a blessing while on the mountain in PA this weekend. If you are anywhere in the area we would love to see you and remember God doesn’t just use the blessed but broken. How do I know? I am both. Remember, Jesus loves you! God bless you and go with God.
Frank w/ Dr & Mrs Rick Scarborough
Don't be an Ostrich
God gave me a word and we coined a phrase: “The Greats are Gracious.” I have found that folks who have done something with their life are often both accessible and approachable. Winners are wonderful - its the wannabees you have to WATCH OUT for. LOL In politics - politicians talk about “leaving no child behind” but I believe we should leave no adult behind either who is willing to work, play by the rules, roll up their sleeves and pay the price to help grow and go to the next level in life and with the Lord.
Yes, by God’s grace we have come a long way in society. Years past, sadly, scores of folks would stoop low and play “the race card” when threatened, felt inferior or had their back to the wall in the presence of someone with more clout or class. Unfortunately, we let “fear” hinder us from growing as friends despite our different skin color. The irony is we both bled red. Praise God we are not where we used to be regarding race relations but today we are distancing ourselves just the same from insecurity, pride and fear of the unknown in other arenas. Not so much in skin tone but afraid of those more talented and successful than self. This is true in every career (perhaps because we are all too human) but it is unfortunately, still very prevalent in ministry circles. This should not be.
Sadly, countless clergy and youth leaders resemble an ostrich when God destined us to soar like eagles. An Ostrich wants to play it safe, is grounded and feels secure when sticking their head in the ground when more talented folks come to town. Eagles are not large but they are powerful. They are not satisfied being sidelined in the sand. However, they are “grounded” knowing who they are and where they came from and what they are capable of but they don’t stick their head in the sand but soar to the sky with their Savior for success, strength and satisfaction.
At least in the “secular” world folks want to know what the competition is. Too many in ministry, rather take a “nose dive” opposed to get on the High Dive and learn from the “big boys” and swim with the sharks. Friends, who you hang out with is what you become. The cartoon analogy of an ostrich resembles the remark: “Out of sight out of mind.” Too many folks want to win in their small sphere of influence but the entire group suffers (not succeed) when we cease to expose ourselves with winners.
We want to throw an “arrogant card” at someone who has accomplished some “success” in their ministry opposed to humbly willing to reach out, extend an invite and grow as friends and learning from their experience. It was “pride” that got Satan kicked out of Heaven and too many in ministry are just as guilty. This is a bold statement but true - in life, both in secular and spiritual matters folks (even ministers) are great at promoting the Lord but fail at promoting others. Why? They are afraid that someone else may be more gifted, talented and likeable than themselves. Ouch!
It has been said: “If you are the sharpest person in your group - you need to get a new group.” We will only be as good as the people we surround ourselves with. It is true - if you always do what you always did you will always get what you always got. I will post more on this subject soon but to be brief I will give you a tease for the next topic: Insecurity is one of the greatest cancers in Christianity today. We have more of a FEAROLGY than theology problem. My prayer for all folks (especially those whom aspire to live for the Lord, become leaders and make their life at bat count) is that they will risk “picking the brains” of others who have gone before, sit at the table with folks ten times more talented than you and be willing to temporaily feel like losing when you realize the wealth of talent across the table from you but then go apply it in your life.
Here is the liberating part: We don’t have to be better than anyone. However, we should all be better because our paths cross with others. It is not about “competing” with others but help completing each other and learning to compliment others as the Body of Christ. Remember this, an ostrich will never grow in grace nor become better when its head is implanted in indifference or insecurity. Eagles will always tower to new heights because they don’t get down in the sand but get UP in the sky. May we all in leadership aspire to resemble the eagle in our every day lives.