The Deep End

Constant

P.erceived
A.dvancing
T.urning
C.onstant
H.

The C. in P.A.T.C.H. is for Constant or Consistent.

And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread. And she said unto her husband, Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually.

II Kings 4:8-9, emphasis added

A servant leader who is inconsistent is a poor servant, and is unqualified for being a “leader.” The Shunnamite woman was impressed with this in Elisha: He passed by “continually.”

There is a sense in which Christian leaders ought to meet the true Biblical definition of being “charismatic.” “Charisma” is the Greek word for the grace-gifts given to born-again believers by the Holy Spirit. This has nothing to do with the current meaning of “Charismatic” Christianity which has more to do with emotions, wild behavior, and counterfeit signs and wonders. We must remember, not just the idea of being “charismatic,” but the importance of being “automatic.” Do not be a “mood-swing” Christian – up one day and down the next; hot one minute and cold the next. Be consistent for Christ.

Peter learned this lesson when Jesus wanted to wash his feet. Peter went from being unworthy of Jesus washing his feet one minute, to wanting Jesus to wash his whole body the next. However, Peter overcame this as he grew in grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. You will be consistent if you do the same.

Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

Colossians 4:2, emphasis added

Next time: the “H” in P.A.T.C.H.