Why Obsession is a Quality of the Boldly Resilient
Obsession may seem like a sinister thing in Hollywood movies, but it's fuel when it's directed toward godly outcomes. Those who obsess over their mission are likely to stick with their work well beyond the time the non-obsessed have given up. Obsession is a passion of the resilient.
The apostle Paul was obsessed with the Gospel and becoming all things to all men so that he might save some. Some labelled him “…out of his mind.” Crazy. Out of control (2 Corinthians 5:13). When you are passionate about what you do, people understand. Passion is polite. When you are obsessed, people think you’re mad. Out of balance.
What do you think? Is obsession a necessary quality in the short term to make culture-wide adaptive changes?
Accomplishments by the Obsessed
What great thing was ever accomplished without obsession? Obsession is required for the extraordinary to happen: building an ark, traversing the wilderness, fighting giants, crossing the oceans, ending slavery, going to the ends of the earth.
Just as some people fear setting high standards for themselves, many fear becoming obsessed. They prefer casual interests and passing flames. It’s easier to live with passions that have no stake in who you are.
It is this obsession for taking on something for God that makes leaders feel the imperative to perform at the highest levels.
Obsession can be hurtful and harmful. But it doesn’t have to be.
Boldly Courageous
It is courageous to move against convention, or to begin before all conditions are good and preparations are perfected. But the bold know that to achieve great things for God, one must first begin. That’s a good part of obsession. The bold also deeply understand that a degree of risk is inevitable and necessary.
It’s worth the reminder: The called can handle this sort of internal pressure. They don’t mind diving into the deep end of their passions. Obsession is not something to fear.
John the Baptist was obsessed with preparing the way of the Lord.
Hudson Taylor was obsessed with reaching China for Christ and founded the China Inland Mission.
David Brainerd was obsessed with reaching Native Americans.
Mother Teresa was obsessed with helping the poor in India.
Bob Pierce was obsessed with caring for Korean orphans and founded World Vision and Samaritan’s Purse.
Turnaround Churches
Turning around churches to fulfill the Great Commission may well require obsession.
What happens when you’re one of the few people doing what you’re doing? Do you keep going because you have such a strong belief in what you’re doing? Do you keep going because you know you have the ability and the opportunity to impact a lot of people in a very positive way?
How long do you keep at something before you decide it isn’t worth it? How often and how much do you listen to the opinions of others? Do you reach out for help from your peers and family?
What do you think? Please leave a comment below.
Bob Jones is the founder of REVwords.com, an author, blogger, and coach with 39 years of pastoral experience. Bob is also an Advance Coach with the ABNWT Resource Centre. You can connect with Bob here.