God Does Have a Plan for You, Pastor

In 1 Chronicles 11, we read that the people came together to anoint David King (vv. 1 and 4) and that David entered into a compact with them concerning his leadership.

As I thought about what took place then, I remembered that God had already chosen and anointed David to be king. God had been using him in prior assignments to prepare him. God had promised him that he would be king. The people – in time of leadership change – simply recognized God’s plan for David to be king. They recognized that their call was preceded by God’s own. They recited how God had said to David, “You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler.”

The lesson in this story is particularly helpful to me as a pastor waiting God’s plan to unfold. (It is also instructive for others who are in Christian service – both lay and clergy…) Now, I know that there are some who say, “God doesn’t care where you pastor. He wants to be able to use you wherever you are.” I understand what they are saying, but what comfort to know the call of God to serve a particular body of people does not depend on man’s wisdom but on God’s will.

Let me share my prayer from this morning. I hope it will be encouraging to you:

“God you have a particular place for me to shepherd your people. You have chosen me and anointed me. You have been using me and preparing me. You have promised that that your call is irrevocable. Now, reveal to me the fulfillment of your choice and purpose of your anointing. Reveal to me and to the people who will call me for what particular assignment you have been preparing me. As you have used me in the past, so now use me in a new place. Reveal your plan also to the people who will call me. May they come together and may we make a compact which reflects your will and purpose for pastor and people.”

One other thing I noticed in this passage. God had said to David, “You will shepherd my people,” before he said, “You will become their ruler.” Before he could lead them as king, he was first to shepherd them:

• Protect
• Feed
• Care for
• Lead to pasture and living water

Only when he became their shepherd would he be able to be their leader:

• Expand and establish the kingdom
• Command the military
• Build his capital city
• Administer the kingdom

The implications for a pastor are obvious.

Hope you are having a great Christmas. God is with us!