That is the question.

It’s the question that many servants of God deal with on a semi-regular basis. Too many people deal with the subject too often.

Here’s a little background.

Years ago, as a devotional exercise, I slowly read through Romans, 1 Corinthians, and 2 Corinthians. I took a passage or small division and gave it some focused thinking in that process. Then, I summed up what I was learning that day in bite-sized length. It was a quick relay in my own words.

During that time, I made myself review several English translations to broaden my understanding. It was a fun season that caused me to look forward to my morning devotional routine. I recommend you try it sometime.

Now back to the title thought at hand. On the morning that I arrived at 1 Corinthians 16:1-9, a unique principle stood out to me. Before moving on, consider clicking that Scripture link and giving it a quick read.

Here’s the takeaway thought that stood out to me.

I shall stay where I am. Great opportunity for useful work remains, and my opposition is building.

The mind-blowing thing here is that a stated factor in Paul’s decision to stay longer in Ephesus was his awareness that people were against him. Because of his opposition, which must have been growing, he sensed he was in the right place at the right time.

If you’re a pastor or ministry director, please read the following sentence slowly. Don’t let opposition to your ministry be the sole deciding factor in your decision to move on.

If you live godly in Christ Jesus, some opposition can be expected. That resistance could signify that you are exactly where God wants you to be.

God called you there because of the culmination of your personality, gifts, and experiences. Why would you want to cut your purpose there short?

Before moving down the road, know the Spirit of God has released you from your current assignment and that the Master is appointing you to a different place of ministry.

Even though ministry is difficult at times, you should refuse to doubt your call because of a bit of opposition.

Should I stay, or should I go?

If a bit of opposition is all you have to go on and you sense no changing directive from the Master, you should stay.

Consider these two pieces if you or a colleague could use a little more direction on this topic. The Right Way to Leave Your Church and How Not to Leave Your Pastorate are filled with practical considerations to help you go forward in God’s grace.