Saying ‘no’ isn’t a lack of faith.  Sometimes it’s a necessary first step in narrowing our focus and strengthening our faith.  I’ve learned that saying ‘yes’ means more when it’s balanced by the proper use of the other word ‘no.’  In fact, a well-placed ‘no’ may be the most liberating word missing from many leaders’ vocabularies.  We need to learn to say ‘no’ to ourselves, too.

There are a whole lot of pastors who need to start saying ‘no’ in small ways now before they run into the big ‘no’ of ministry burnout and failure later.

Saying ‘No’ Isn’t a Lack of Faith

For years I’ve been told by well-meaning preachers and teachers that if I have enough faith, I can do anything I want to do.  But that is not true.  Or Biblical.

When ‘No’ is Good News

We have to say ‘no’ to some things so we can say ‘yes’ to better things.  When we choose one option, it always means saying ‘no’ to other options.  Once we know what we’re called to do, it becomes easier to say ‘no’ to what we’re not called to do.

I’m Not God’s Only Option

We convince ourselves that if we don’t do it, it won’t get done.  But we’re not the only tool in God’s utility belt.  God can do anything.  But I’m not Him.  What I can’t do, God can do through someone else.  I’m not an eye, I’m a hand.

Let Go and Say “No’

Are you, church or your ministry paralyzed by indecision?  Flaming out because you been burning the ministry candle at both ends?  Feeling guilty for the promise you meant to keep before you ran out of time or resources to do them?

Start saying ‘no’.

Now.

Seriously.

Take a deep breath and tell yourself this truth: I can’t do everything. 

Let go of what you’re not called to do.  Grab hold of that unique, faith-filled idea you are called to do.

Then be awesome at it.