ROOTED RENEGADE

Pinch hitters are brought in at the bottom of the ninth with all bases loaded.  So that they are fresh and not worn out from the game.  The goal:  a grand slam.

Often God uses people as pinch hitters within churches and organizations.  And usually when a spirit of disruption is running a muck.

These spirits disguise themselves as well meaning and intentioned assets that are working tirelessly at their roles to ensure everything runs smoothly.  They accept no responsibility for their actions or lack thereof and blame others on their team for delay and problems.  

They will continually divert attention away from what they are doing to point out what’s wrong in other areas of the organization.  It’s so those in leadership have to focus on other issues instead of what they are doing.  It’s a trap.  All the while this disruptor is causing such delay that by the time it’s figured out it’s too late. 

A lot of times it is in the area of finances.  Whether it’s donor relationships, keeping track of finances, paying bills or filing taxes.  When a disruptor comes into this sector and is left unchecked it can bring devastation to an organization or church.

So, how do you spot a disruptor?

1. Pay attention to the things they say when they are assigned a task but miss a deadline.  Do they blame shift?  Do the shuck responsibility?  
2. Read through every correspondence carefully and ask Holy Spirit to show you what you may be missing.  Disruptors can also be low key narcissistic and it will come through their communication.
3. Prayer.  Ask Holy Spirit to identify every disruptor in your church or organization.

How do you handle them once you know who they are? 

1. You pray and ask Holy Spirit for guidance.  He is the best one to guide you in navigating what to do. 
2. When Holy Spirit gives you instructions act on them.  Don’t delay.  Delay can cause complications that can be avoided.
3. Always remember who is ultimately in charge.  Jesus.  Not this demonic spirit operating through one of your employees. 
4. And don’t argue with them or try to defend your point or stance.  You won’t win it because the goal is to keep you distracted.  Only respond to what is necessary and call out what needs to be called out with Holy Spirit’s guidance. 

If you earnestly seek wise counsel and ask for wisdom in dealing with this spirit and ask to hear Holy Spirit speak more clearly, then you are on the right track.  Don’t move too soon or say things out of timing.  God’s timing is perfect and He will expose this spirit when it’s time. 

And trust.  Trust God with your church or organization.  He knows what’s best. He placed you in the position you are to have the greatest impact for His glory.  Allow Him to drive while you sit in the passenger seat.  It can be hard for leaders to take this position but it is absolutely necessary for the health of the church or organization and the leader. 

Also, when He shows you who to bring in to ‘pinch hit’, equip that person with all they need to hit the grand slam.  Remove all ungodly expectations and help cultivate their gifts so they can thrive in the role they are placed in.  They already carry a heavy burden.  Don’t make it harder for them but walk alongside them throughout the process. 

The last thing I will leave you with is this…if you are the pinch hitter, know that God has placed you where you are as a strategic chess piece. You are not the pawn with little defenses. You are a major key player on the chessboard and God will move you to the right spaces when it’s time. Don’t rush ahead of his timing. Also, stay before the Lord. Don’t rely on your own understanding but trust Him. He won’t lead you in the wrong direction.

Faythe