…. lack of vision ….

The famed preacher declared the effects of a lack of vision. He wrote that without a vision the people perish. Those words inspired a thousand sermons and lessons alike. The vision message entailed the future; a plan for the body; and a destination to reach. Many purport that all healthy organizations hinge on “visionary leadership.” Business models speak of early adopters and the bell-curve of rejection. All of it coming from the inception of the vision.

Today, the message seems caught in a spiral of motivational speeches and well-intended strategies. Something is missing. We find it in David’s reply to his eldest brother, Eliab.

Goliath has challenged the armies of Israel while the men huddle in fear. Goliath’s 9ft frame could not be missed. King Saul has set forth the vision: Kill the giant and become a hero. There is no question what the plan entails. No one is confused as to the mission that lies ahead. They all know what has to be done. Nevertheless, when David asked about the details, Eliab accused him of having the wrong motive, “I know thy pride…” to which David asked, “Is there not a Cause?”

The vision was set. The plan was in order. Israel’s mighty men knew what lay before them. They could rehearse the rewards that would be bestowed upon the man who defeated the giant. However, David asked the question that facilitated the vision. Come to find out, the Vision was supported by the Cause. The Cause is the reason we pursue the Vision. The Cause is that driving force of conviction that makes the Vision a reality. In David’s case, it was to preserve the name of the Lord and the people of God.

The Vision has been set by Jesus Christ Himself. He would that all be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. His Gospel is to be preached in all the world. We know this because it is written.

What we struggle with is the Cause. Moreover, we struggle because we forget that the Cause is not just What we do, but it is Who we are. It must become us and consume us until we are saturated with Kingdom work.

So I submit to you the Cause:

Be-Cause there is a Heaven and Hell and souls are on the line.
Be-Cause our city, friends, and family need to be saved.
Be-Cause our future lies in the balance of a sold-out body of believers.
Be-Cause unity is the key to a major Acts 2 revival.

Pastor Jeffrey Harpole

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