“Finish what you started in me, God. Your love is eternal – don’t quit on me now.” Psalm 138.8
When I come to London one of my assignments was to look at finishing a number of jobs that had continued for years. According to my boss, there were several projects in the “almost complete” category that were, for a variety of reasons, sitting in a holding pattern. The problem included tying up several people with no movement towards the corporate mission, and perpetuating a view that Europeans were all talk, no action.
When I met with the staff, I found something different. The staff talked of hard work, extreme dedication, personal sacrifice, corporate hurdles, and the unwillingness of other groups to work together. The managers produced documents, plans, memos, and charts showing their initiative. I looked at the problem and saw their efforts, incredible hours, and sacrifices. Everything they said was true.
Eighteen months later, the story is totally different. People talk about the accomplishments and group delivered on time. Managers express their admiration for the quality and depth of the management staff. Other groups come looking for ideas and ways to work together. There are no projects on hold or behind schedule.
I wish I could take credit for doing all the work or driving the change. While I am a player, the credit belongs in two places. The key does not lie with the senior managers who help break the stalemates. The one difference is that the staff opened themselves up to be different, for others to come in and help them and the initiatives grow.
My God relationship mirrored my European team. For years, I worked long hours with extreme dedication pursuing God. I could see progress, but I often had no idea of where God was. Today I see, feel, and hear God all around me all the time. It is as if the Spirit is a constant companion.
Being open to let God in is the first step. Passionately wanting Him to finish His work is the second. Try it, things happen!
