Hearing that from me may come as a shock. For over a decade I have written and recorded these blogs on how to be more effective in media and leadership. Often, it means moving from the ranks of an amateur to that of a professional—learning techniques, applying principles, and building confidence in what you do…and why.

So, why am I now saying, “Don’t be so professional.”

Over twenty years ago Pastor John Piper wrote a book titled Brothers, We Are Not Professionals. Piper was pleading with pastors to make sure they didn’t abandon their God-given calling for the sake of professionalism.

“The mentality of the professional is not the mentality … of the slave of Christ. Professionalism has nothing to do with the essence and heart of the Christian ministry.”

I realized many years ago that we can become so professional in our ministry work that we don’t rely on God. I’ve sometimes said, “If we aren’t careful, God could take His hand off our ministry, and we might not notice it for several years.”

Well, what’s the point? What does it take to have a successful ministry? It is a matter of our focus and of our heart. What drives us in our work? Where do we turn for guidance? Do we read more professional books than God’s Word? Do we listen to leadership experts more than we listen to the Holy Spirit’s voice? Do we spend more time in seminars than in personal prayer with the Lord?

What is the focus of our lives and, therefore, our ministry?

The Apostle Paul set the Philippians straight on this topic. In Philippians 3 he writes:

We put no confidence in human effort, though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more!

Paul was saying, “I could run my credentials by you and show you how ‘professional’ I am, even more so than others.” Then he tells them:

I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done.

Paul didn’t throw away all he had learned and all he had gained in wisdom and knowledge. He put it in perspective. And he nailed it down with these words:

…I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Paul’s perspective and focus was on God’s call on his life, not his personal achievements. It’s not about building a successful ministry; it’s about being obedient to the Lord and His assignment for you.

God doesn’t need your professionalism. He needs you to hear His voice and follow. Then, when your ministry achieves anything (by worldly standards), it will be for His glory.

So, what will you do today…this week…that may be less professional but more in the center of God’s will?

God’s best,