Three Things to Consider Before Saying Yes to New Opportunities

New opportunities for ministry have come my way, however it’s been hard to make a decision about what to do because every door that is open seems good but I don’t know how I can do it all. At times like this it can be hard to make a decision about what to do but thankfully we can use the principles found in the Word of God to help us when we are unclear.

I went back to my three point list. Considering these three simple things have proved to be very helpful. If you have a decision to make about new opportunities I hope my little list will help you too.

1. Consider ALL the RESPONSIBILITIES of new opportunities before you accept an offer.

Proverbs 31:16 AMP says, “She considers a [new] field before she buys or accepts it [expanding prudently and not courting neglect of her present duties by assuming other duties]; with her savings [of time and strength] she plants fruitful vines in her vineyard.”

Many times we say yes to a new opportunity without thinking of all the new responsibilities it will bring with it. For instance, what if you’re asked to volunteer in a ministry? Before you commit in the moment ask what will be expected of you, then take the time to CONSIDER all the responsibilities before you give answer.  If you think things through before you commit, you can spare yourself from future problems. Or, maybe you want to start a business but you already have a job.  You need to consider what you will have to give up – time, finances, and personal life to create time in your daily routine to work on the new business idea.

2. Ask yourself if it will cause you to NEGLECT your present priorities and responsibilities.

If you find that you will have to neglect you present priorities to take on a new opportunity than it’s probably not a good time – whether business, personal, or ministerial.  However, when it’s part of God’s plan other things may have to be let and He will help you find ways to make adjustments that work for your life and but don’t leave the important things neglected.  Most things are not worth spending less time with your family or not having time the time to connect with God each day.  However, if God calls you to do something then you can trust Him to make way. He can and He will!

3. Ask yourself if an expansion will add FRUITFULNESS to your life purpose or busyness.

Passion is different from purpose.  Unlike Christ’s passion before His crucifixion, which actually means “painful suffering,” human passion is defined as: “emotions as distinguished from reason.” Sometimes we chase one passion after another. We see someone doing something great and we want to do it too so we jump on the bandwagon just to find out we were being led by emotions. Many times we’ve already invested time, energy, and $$$ before we realize it wasn’t part of God’s plan. Purpose on the other hand, according to the Scriptures as seen in John 3:8, “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil,” means: “single or same intent” as/with God.”

Beloved, any time you have to make a decision that will make demands of your time, energy and resources consider these three simply things in light of your understanding of your God-given purpose and His plan for you and fruitfulness will always be the outcome.