Observer, Planter, Builder

According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. (1 Corinthians 3:10 NASB)

   My observation tells me there are three kinds of people in the world.

 First, there is what I call the observer.  The observer is content sitting on the sideline and watching others do the work.  A good example is found in Nehemiah 4:1, "Now it came about that when Sandballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became furious and very angry and mocked the Jews,"  You will always have those who won't participate in the work process, but are ready to criticise those who do.

The second kind of person is the planter.  The planter is the one who is willing to put forth an honest effort.  He is a starter person.  He may not know how to go about the job, but he is willing to allow God to use his abilities and sills to advance the kingdom.  The planters remind me of the first responders to an accident.

The third kind of person is the builder.  The builder is the person who acdepts the job and runs with it.  He has the ability and desire to expand on the efforts of the planter.  He makes things happen.  He's what we call a shaker and a mover.  He gets things done.  There is a great need for planters and builders in the worldwise harvest fieldls.

   Are you an observer, planter, or builder?  The challenge for the church is to get the observer to become a planter, and a planter to advance to the building stage.  Are you willing to be used of God?