“Take heed to the ministry (i.e. marriage, church membership, pastorate) which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it,” Colossians 4:17.

It may not always be 7 years, but it is a reality of life. We get ‘itchy’. When we’re itchy, we get antsy. When we get antsy, we get dissatisfied. When we get dissatisfied, we make some very impulsive, often bad, choices. It happens in marriages, church membership, and, yes, even in pastorates.

They all have something in common. They involve a commitment. A commitment guided by God and made in His presence. A commitment Satan doggedly attacks.

They all have a ‘honeymoon’ period. Each of them starts out with an eager anticipation and high hopes. It exciting. Even during the initial adjustments, there is a desire to make it work. Commitment and faithfulness prevail.

Then it happens. First it is a ‘wondering’ thought. Yes, a wondering thought … is there someone who understands me better, more of a soul mate? … is there a church just a little more vibrant, one that moves me? … is there a Call where I would do better, one that appreciates me?

Then it changes. Wondering leads to wandering. Wandering thoughts move to wandering actions … flirting and fantasizing … criticizing and church shopping … self-centered seeking and self directed decisions. Commitment and faithfulness are wane. The itch is, at best, temporarily fixed, but the self justified actions leave wounds to marriages, church families, and ministries.

There is a remedy. Let God itch it! He knows where and how. His itching will bring permanent relief. Whether it is marriage, church, or pastorates, they are all important to Him. Each of them reflects the covenant relationship of a Bride and Bridegroom. His grace will provide … renewed vows of love and faithfulness … renewed commitment to the Body where Christ placed you … renewed vision as a Servant Leader of His Flock.

Got an itch? Tell Jesus. He knows right where to rub it.