Roy Mansfield here – Pastor of Spiritual Development at Northstar Church in Panama City, Florida, Senior Pastors Coaching Network Alumni and regular guest on Nelson’s blog.

Today I’d like to share a truth that may (and should) challenge you in your role as a church leader…

A leader who will not stare reality dead in the face has no real faith.

Here’s how it worked for Abraham (the father of faith):

“Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God.” – Heb. 11:19-20

I find it personally challenging that Abraham “faced the fact” that Sarah’s womb was dead and his body was “as good as dead.”  I wonder how Abraham feels having his physique described in scripture for all eternity (because the Word of God is eternal) with the phrase “as good as dead?”

Without faith it is impossible to please God. But without facing the facts it is impossible to have faith.

Here’s what I mean:

• You face the fact that your church has not grown as you had hoped.
• You face the fact that someone close to you has let you down.
• You face the fact that you that there is conflict among your staff

And then you face the promise of God.  Find a promise in God’s word that specifically addresses the fact that is troubling you.

What am I going to put in the space between the fact I faced and the promise I found?

I get to choose.

If I dwell on “the fact,” the space is filled with unbelief and worry and God is dishonored. If I dwell on the promise, then the space is filled with strength and confidence in God, and God is pleased with my faith.

If you’re a leader you won’t survive long in denial.  

So I encourage you to…

• Face the facts.
• Find a promise.
• Focus on the promise.
• Grow in faith.
• Please God.

- Roy Mansfield
www.growingtogether.cc