Hold on until God provides a ‘second wind’ for ministry, Dailey preaches_111504

Posted: 11/12/04

Hold on until God provides a 'second
wind' for ministry, Dailey preaches

By Teresa Young

For Texas Baptist Communications

SAN ANTONIO–“I know someone today is in the valley, but I've come to tell you not to give up. Your second wind is coming,” Jerry Dailey, pastor of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in San Antonio, promised during the convention sermon at the Baptist General Convention of Texas annual session Nov. 9.

Dailey pointed to the Old Testament story in which God told the prophet Ezekiel to resurrect dry bones strewn across a valley.

And he encouraged Texas Baptists to hold firm to God during trying times of ministry and allow God to bring about a second wind in their lives.

Jerry Dailey, pastor of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in San Antonio, preaches the BGCT convention sermon.

Dailey, president of the Texas Baptist African American Fellowship, described how Olympic track and field athletes know well the benefit of a second wind in completing their races.

“Many of us here this day are not long-distance runners; we've not been on the field,” Dailey said. “At times, we feel we're about burned out, and when our feet almost slip, there is this new burst of energy that we can't explain, but we say we've caught our second wind.”

Dailey cited a “cultural and moral Armageddon” in society and the stronghold of biblical principles as a reason for Christians to turn to God for a second wind in fighting their spiritual battles.

He also encouraged Texas Baptists not to avoid the valleys–or the low times–even though they represent challenges.

God “wants to teach us that we can't stay on the mountain all the time,” he declared.

“Ministry does not take place on the mountain. Ministry takes place in the valley.

“I'm afraid too many of us are afraid to go where the bones are. But only when you find out the needs of the house, then the Lord can help you move them from where they are to where he wants them to be.”

Christians should practice thanksgiving in every situation, whether on the mountain or in the valley, and they should be expressive in thanks, Dailey urged.

“Many go to church and act like God hasn't done anything for us,” he said.

“But if God's been good to you, you ought to show some sign. If he put runnin' into your feet or clappin' into your hands, you ought to show some sign.”

The Texas Baptist family needs to look to God for his provision and trust his power, Dailey concluded.

“I've come to ask you: Can these bones live? Sometimes you have to say: 'I don't understand it, but God knows it. I don't know how he works it out, but he does.'

“There's power in the word, and God's word brings restoration, order and peace that passes understanding. God can bring the bones together.”