Character and Calling

I was preparing for my small group today.  The material we've using had us read a passage from "Grace Abounding" by John Bunyan.  Bunyan wrote the famous book, "Pilgrim's Progress."  He was a preacher in the 17th century who was imprisoned for preaching the Gospel.

The book talks about Bunyan's own experiences as a pastor.  At one point, he talks about the importance of confirming someone's call by their character not giftedness.  It caught my attention because I've known people who have had a powerful ministry.  They have influneced lives, built strong ministries and gathered followers.  No one knew the sin they were hiding.  When the sin is revealed, the ministry collapses like a house of cards.

Steve Furtick of Elevation Church recently interviewed Ted Haggard.  Ted had a powerful ministry in CO.  He was also the president of the National Association of Evangelicals.  Then the new broke that he was hiding sin and he lost everything.  He lost his ministry and reputation.  His family suffered and his wife was ashamed.  You can hear the story yourself and some warnings from Ted.  In addition, you can hear from his wife.  It's amazing but she stayed with Ted and has been working through the issues.  Hear from her youself by clicking here.