Effectiveness

"At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Gentiles believed." Acts 14:1

I spent a number of years pursuing a management degree in college. In that pursuit the term effective was often used. Every author had something to say about effectiveness. It was the effective thing to do. We talked in classes about how to be effective. Always coupled with efficient, effective was a constant theme. The disciples were effective for a reason. Beyond the definition in the workplace, they were in the center of God's will. Much easier to be effective when you are doing what you are supposed to be doing. Effective doesn't always mean easy. Led of God or not, often effective is not simple. Nice when it is, but sometimes being effective is complicated.

Paul and Barnabas were not only doing the right thing, they were in the right place at the right time. All these components increase the possibilities for effectiveness. Paul and Barnabas also 'spoke' effectively. Too often we may be in the right place for the right reason doing the right thing, but not saying it well. Ineffective choice of words can sabotage an otherwise effective opportunity to reach the desired result. Maybe a definition of effective would be to simply reach the desired result. The disciples wanted to spread the Good News and they said what they needed to, led by the Spirit, which made them effective. They gave a straightforward and efficient, effective sharing of the claims of Christ. We can learn from their style and motivation.

I want to be effective for the Lord. I want to be efficient for Him too, but especially effective. I want what He wants. In order to be effective about that I have to keep the focus on Him. I have to be willing to surrender my way to His Way. The most effective way is His Way. I can tend to do it my way and hope He can fix it for me. That is never effective. I have three suggestions for how we can be more effective when we speak about Him.

1.) Talk about Him more than anything else
2.) Talk like He talks, with grace and truth
3.) Keep it simple and straightforward

I encourage us all as we are where we are supposed to be, doing what we are supposed to be doing, and for the right reasons, that we talk about Him often. That is what makes an effective disciple. If there is any question or doubt about what to say at any time, it is always best to prayerfully ask Him for guidance. As you do, watch for more opportunities to share and note that you will probably be more effective when you do.

Trying to be effective for Him,
Pastor Fred

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