"Would You Hire this Man?"
(Quoted by Richard N. Bolles)
A certain church found itself suddenly without a pastor, and a search
committee was formed. In due course it received a letter from a man applying for
the vacant position. The committee chairman read:
"I am considered to be a good preacher, and I have been a leader in
most of the places I have served. I have also done some writing on the side. I
am over 50-years-old, and while my health is not the best, I still manage to get
enough work done to please my parish.
"As for references, I am somewhat handicapped. I have never preached
anywhere for more than three years, and most of the churches I have preached in
have been rather small, even thought they were located in larger cities. I had
to leave some places because my ministry caused riots and disturbances.
"Even where I stayed, I did not get along too well with other religious
leaders, which may influence the kind of references these places will supply. I
have also been threatened and physically attacked. I have even gone to jail
several times for my preaching.
"I am not particularly good at keeping records. I have to admit, I
don't even remember all those whom I have baptized. However, if you can use me,
I should be pleased to be considered. I feel sure that I can bring vitality to
your church."
When the chairman finished reading the letter, the committee members were
aghast. How could anyone think that a church like theirs would consider a man
who was nothing but a trouble-making, absentminded, ex-jail-bird?
What is his name?
"Well," said the chairman, "the letter is signed,
'Paul.'"
"But the LORD said to Samuel, 'Do
not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have
rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward
appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.'"
1 Samuel 16:7 (NASB)
You can accomplish more in one hour
with God
than in one lifetime without Him.
"Walk in wisdom . . . redeeming
the time."
(Colossians 4:5)
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