When conformity becomes the measure, everything else gets devalued. Truth, mutual respect, genuine love, and anything else important gets put on the back burner. Oh they’re still important.
“But you’re not like us.”
Why do you do the things you do? Why do you do it the way you do it? It’s too different. If you could just make some adjustments, you could be like us and be accepted. 
“But you’re not like us.”
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He’s not. But he is trying to make a point.
The ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests seem to be quite elaborate. It was seven days of grueling hard work of sacrificing various animals according to the details prescribed.
I wonder about all the detail and extensiveness of the ceremonies during those extended days of ordination. First, I realize that there were ancient traditions that were important to the people. These were vital for them to set people apart for leadership.
Second, I believe there is an imagery that shows that humans are too unworthy to be God’s representatives on the earth. This was represented by all the detailed sacrifices and formalities. It just seems too difficult to please God. And for us as people, and on our own, it is impossible.
You see, as humans we are just too flaky (weak). But because of the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, he has fulfilled all the requirements. We are now a Kingdom of priests!
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At one time, it was extremely compelling and became the driving force behind the organization. But needs change, people change, and ultimately, the focus may change.
The overall mission probably won’t change since that’s the purpose of the organization’s existence. But fulfilling the purpose takes many steps (vision). Thus the vision needs to change according to the journey.
Don’t let an old vision continue to drive you. Create new ones – still based on your mission – but gradually progressing.
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The responsibility to develop your God-given talents rests on you. If you are not sure where to begin, select three of your top hobbies/passions.
Set an ongoing pattern of training for yourself. If you are not able to enroll in a formal training course, at least get some online training. Just make sure those trainers are reputable and that you’ll get your money’s worth.
Invest a significant amount of time for practice. Although the talent was given by God, developing it rests on your shoulders. As you invest significant amount of time into these passions, one will emerge as primary. You will feel more comfortable with that one, and others who observe you will also affirm you in that one activity. Build on that one.
Get a mentor and begin getting significant insight into your craft. Let that mentor’s experience and learning be an empowering and motivational force for you. You’re getting years of training and experience in a “capsule” form as you work with a mentor or coach.
Finally, be persistent. without looking for short term results, be persistent. Stay with the task. Keep doing it. Keep doing that one task that benefits others. Expecting nothing in return, keep giving through your talent. Month after month, year after year, keep on being faithful in that task. You have the task of developing the talent that God created in you.
Start.
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No sense in explaining yourself when there is no trust.
Especially when there is no trust. We may want to clear things up and explain our actions. But if there is no trust, all our explaining will go to deaf ears and our efforts will be wasted.
Give it time.
Build trust.
Explain.
Then, just leave it to God.
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It’s a challenge to attract great leaders for your organization or church. They become a valuable asset as you move forward. You will have a broader perspective from such quality people. And their perspective is of much value.
It’s a greater challenge to raise up leaders from within. It takes more energy, patience, and lots of time investment. But the value is immense. You can be sure they carry your DNA. They won’t need to develop or “grow into” your values. That’s simply who they are.
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Culture develops from years of response to practical needs. But later, when needs change, the culture seems out of touch. It requires revision.
We can’t revise culture. But maybe we can. But it will take so much effort. The resistance may be overwhelming. Most just give up. But some persist and push forward.
There is a huge price to be paid for even attempting to revise culture. You’ll be ostracized and condemned as an outlaw and as one who intends to destroy the peace.
So, is it worth the cost? If it is, go ahead and put your neck on the line.
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It’s amazing how many of those annoying people God put in your life. Their habits, words, and behavior seem to be aimed at making your life miserable.
God has a special purpose for strategically placing them there in your life. This is an opportunity for you to give grace to others – the same grace God gave you. Actually he not only gave it to you at salvation but he continues to give it. Daily.
Grace received – to be given.
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It’s not common, but it does happen. Friendship turns long-term. It goes beyond usefulness and conveniences. Something deeper gets transferred between the two in a healthy manner.
No apparent need is fulfilled except for that deep inner sense of connection. It’s a God connection that’s hard to explain but a sure reality. Yet it needs to be cultivated and nurtured just like any other relationship.
Proverbs has words of a similar tone:

“Better a neighbor who is near than a brother who is far away.” (Proverbs 27:10c)

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