Know When To Fold

David and I have recognized a pattern in our calling and purpose over the past decades of ministry. COGO, our trademark, is an acronym for Cross Over Global Outreach, but also endearingly referred to as Come ‘n Go - those sent on missions, filling gaps in God-given vision. We count ourselves faithful in identifying the Lord's invitation to "Come" alongside a new expression of Christ and those answering His vision and call. These nationals are often located in obscure places, but strategically positioned to make high impact in their countries. We've had the honor of laboring in many fields with diverse ministries to launch some glorious works of God!

In hindsight, though, a weakness has been in realizing if and when that season has run its course. As the Kenny Rogers' song says, "You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away, know when to run..." There are indications, "tells" in the Spirit defining the "Go" or God's promptings to gracefully move on. I admit, we've missed them at certain junctures. We have historically been used in an incognito fashion to help initiate, pioneer, and build. However, a bold, tenacious spirit which can forge through early difficulties needs to also know the proper time to hang up the plow! It's not quitting or failure, just that the plowing season in that particular place is coming to an end. The next phase of ministry will occur through others as we turn to a new field.

"I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, you are God's building. According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ" - 1 Corinthians 3:6-11

Thus, we have learned a few things in the process: Exit on a high note; don't wait until things go bad. In other words, "A lady always knows when to leave" speaks of the finesse and discernment to not wear out your welcome. Overstaying in the Spirit and in the natural can defeat the purpose and good of the visit/divine appointment. "Seldom set foot in your neighbor's house, lest he become weary of you and hate you" (Prov. 25:17). Here's a good rule of thumb: Depart sooner than later - when there's a mutual longing to stay rather than an inability to remain any longer. An insightful brother once compared it to a fasted lifestyle. After you come across something good, don't stuff yourself. Purposely implement self-control and discipline. "Have you found honey? Eat only as much as you need, lest you be filled with it and vomit" (Prov. 25:16). Leave each other hungry for more!

After the struggle to bring forth, there comes a well-deserved sense of ease – the desire to enjoy the fruit of your labor. Yet take care not to settle on your lees; it may actually be the time of release. John the Baptist was a perfect example of one whose purpose and function shifted just as things were ramping up, catching on, and getting exciting! Can we distinguish winds of change (as in the coming and going of Mary Poppins)? The Lord often keeps us on a need to know basis. However, if we desire wisdom, He gives it liberally in perfect timing for those with an ear to hear.

 -  Elese