Discontent There are many things that can fuel us as we do life and ministry. Experiences such as God's salvation, God's grace and God's calling not only transform our lives but also motivate us to life purposeful lives. At other times, we also have seasons of struggle where frustration, discouragement and weariness can seem to take over, depleting our energy and enthusiasm. Let's face it, life and ministry can be tough. Even Jesus told his disciples that he was sending them out as "sheep among wolves." That doesn't sound like a picnic or a leisurely walk in the park!

How should we handle our frustration? In his book, Holy Discontent, Bill Hybels says, "Once that frustration and anger is understood as being your hold discontent – your spiritual connection to the God who is working to fix everything – it's as if an enormous wave of positive energy gets released inside you … This energy causes you to act on the dissatisfaction that's been brewing deep within your soul and compels you to say yes to joining forces with God so that the darkness and depravity around you gets pushed back."

God loves it when we love what he loves and hate what he hates. Holy discontent emerges when a person sees a problem in the world and God sees the same problem; and together they resolve to do something about it.

How can you fuel your life with a holy discontent? Start by asking these three important questions:

1. What can't you stand?

2. What are you passionate about?

3. What draws you towards ministry in the first place?

Once you discover that holy discontent, feed it and let it fuel your life. Partner with others who feel the same – together spread the fire. The world, and you, will be better of for it.

3 thoughts on “Your Holy Discontent

  1. Hi Mark.
    I agree, this is an inspiring book – another great one by Bill Hybels. Helps us direct the negativity of frustration into a positive for action and change. WWJD!

  2. Hi Richard. Yes, that article reflects someone who has seen abuse and is passionate about bringing it to account. Some definite holy discontent there! Of course, the danger is to smear all pastors with the same brush or project wrong motives on everyone who leaders ministries or churches.

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