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Army of One

By Allen Brewer

Pastor Allen Brewer

Every time I saw a commercial for the US Army, I'd wonder what the ad was really saying. Then, like a ton of bricks, it hit me. Army of One means that you've resolved in yourself that you will accomplish what you've set out to do. You'll also challenge all obstacles until you've achieved your intended goal (whew, that was a mouthful).

What the US Army has been trying to do is convince people to take the world by storm—full speed. That's very similar to what God's been saying to young people too!

Jesus just before His departure to heaven, charged us to become an Army of One. Oh? You don't believe it? Jesus said, "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19,20).

Jesus told each disciple to go out and begin a personal ministry that will create other disciples; that will encourage others to give their hearts to the Maker; and that will teach people about God's saving power.

That, my friend, sounds much like becoming an Army of One. So how do you go about becoming this Army of One and beginning a ministry that glorifies God?

1. Know your strengths. Romans 12:3-8 tells us that God has given each of us special talents, gifts, and abilities. But before jumping headlong into starting a ministry, you need to understand what your strengths are. Take some time to think about what you're good at. Can you turn that talent into a ministry?

2. Ask for wisdom. James 1:5 reminds us that before you will become successful at anything, you need to ask God for wisdom.

3. Do some research. One of the main reasons ministries go sour after only a short while is that no one has done enough planning or research to discover where their ministry is most needed. In John 4 it's recorded that Jesus needed to go through Samaria. He understood that Samaria was a place that could benefit from His ministry. Get it?

4. Gain earthly counsel. Consult with local church elders or trusted mentors about your ideas. Pay close attention to their advice. Solomon said, "Many advisers make victory sure" (Proverbs 11:14).

5. Just do it! Sometimes we like to make sure every thing's perfect before we start something. Like Nike, I say, "Just do it!" After you've received wise counsel and completed the other three steps, it's time to start your ministry.

God told Moses to tell the Israelites as they were standing in the valley of decision, "Go forward" (Exodus 14:15, KJV), which are the same words for you!

More help

So far we've only scratched the surface. In my weekly online seminars I help scores of people begin ministries and start working full-speed for Jesus. I'd be happy to give you more detailed help too. You can e-mail me at pastor@phoenixsmc.org.

Today it's very possible to start becoming an Army of One.
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Pastor Allen Brewer is pastor of the Phoenix South Mountain church in Arizona. Pastor Brewer has worked with youth as a youth pastor, Pathfinder leader, and a speaker for youth day, week of prayer, camp meeting, and vespers. He's also written numerous books and articles. Passionate about ministry, he's director of Total Breakthrough Ministries, a nonprofit Internet ministry purposed to draw people to God. This article first appeared in the June 16, 2007 Insight. Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved © 2008 Church Support Services. Click here for content usage information.