By: Rev. Jerry Chiles
Every person faces risks and chooses how to respond. Some people run toward risk, while others run from risk. As a child and youth, I did not fear risk and found myself in some crazy situations. My conservative religious upbringing caused me to moderate risk taking. However, in my ministry I took some risks, because I knew they were the right things to do. Did I sometimes suffer from my decisions? Yes. Would I risk them all over again? Probably.
Who are the natural risk takers?
Personality modeling algorithms reveal that a foremost behavioral sign of a risk taker is a willingness to explore new and unconventional ideas. These individuals often seek out novelty and are open to trying new experiences, whether it be in their personal lives or purchasing decisions. Another characteristic is fearlessness.
What risks were taken by the following?
- Abram called to a new land?
- Jacob marrying his first wife?
- The children of Israel leaving Egypt?
- Jeremiah telling the king the truth?
- Mary and Joseph in the beginning of their new life?
- Paul with the Council of Jerusalem?
- Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King?
- A church supporting women in ministry?
- A church affirming LGBTQ?
Brené Brown says, “Vulnerability is a risk that we must take in order to have the courage to pursue big goals. She also says that there is “no courage without uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure. Vulnerability is a measure of courage, not a sign of weakness.”
Is being in ministry a risky business?
The answer is yes.
It is risky because God calls us to speak the truth even when it is hard. The prophets suffered because of their truth. Jesus died because of his truth.
We can suffer health problems, we can be maligned and attacked, and our families can be threatened.
Each person has to discern the will of God in deciding what risks to take. In a time when Christianity is being distorted and used, we are called to live the Jesus Way and to share what the Jesus Way means.
Since most of us are risk aversive, why have we chosen a profession filled with risk taking? Why do we follow a God who calls us to take risks?
What are some of the risks ministers are asked to take?
- Standing up for what is right in controversary.
- Being vulnerable
- Loving a congregation
- Leading a congregation to make life changing decisions
- Saying no
- Dealing with fellow ministers
- Add your own risk _____________________________
When we risk, we can never be absolutely certain we are making the right decision. However, God asks us to step into the unknown. As he said to Joshua, (1:9) “Be strong and courageous; do not be terrified, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Embolden us to accept the risks that come with following you- even as we resist the powers and systems that set crosses on our shoulders. Sanctified Art
Two songs that have helped me as I consider taking risks in ministry are: Will You Come and Follow Me? By John L. Bell and Be Not Afraid by John Michael Talbot
These thoughts are from Rev. Jerry Chiles, one of our associate partners in ministry. He has served over the years in various churches across the Southeast as an associate minister. Contact him for more information about how he can help you.