Pitfalls In Mission Assignment

Things do not just fall apart without any form of notice, but we decide not to pay attention to it. For anything to work, someone must make it work; whether directly or indirectly, there is that one person who will not relent until it works. Most times, we blame other people when something does not go the way it was originally designed and forget that we all had roles to play in the success or failure of the event. Life will never be fair; you decide on how you will handle the challenges that life brings. In every action, there is always a corresponding consequence, be it good or bad.

When we talk about pitfall, we are referring to that hidden or unsuspected danger or difficulty. That unexpected event that happens suddenly is referred to as pitfall. There are some events that do not correspond to each other, and when these two are merged, that disappointing result, or the regret that follows, can be called pitfall. Pitfalls can also be seen when your experience is opposite of your expectation. No one prays for something bad to happen, but when what life offers is different from what we expected, we call that pitfall. This can happen to anybody and at any time.

There are some common pitfalls we get into while trying to solve a problem. This one happens even with our good intentions, so we see why it is unexpected, unplanned and unseen. During our quiet time, while trying to deliberate on solutions, we may cause more problem. The most common pitfall is getting into conclusion quickly without first critically analysing the problem. We think we know the problem so we jump into solving it immediately. This unexpected event can be tackled and be avoided once the right method and strategy is implemented. To avoid this, first, we need to define what the problem is. If it is a repeated problem, you need to get to the root of it. Ask the why questions, also ask and answer focusing questions, evaluate the impact of the last effort. When you take time to study the cause of a problem, it will help you not to jump into conclusion.

Mission can be defined in several ways but for the purpose of this content, we will see mission as an important goal that is accompanied by strong conviction. This, we are made to understand that everyone has what drives them. Anyone can decide to set out a mission in line with their different area of interest.

When we say pitfalls in mission assignment, we are actually talking about the dangers, unexpected event that happens in the process of carrying out our different assignments. As mentioned earlier, pitfalls can happen to anyone at any time. Unplanned events don’t only happen to unbelievers but believers as well. Even in the life of Jesus when he was here on earth, He was betrayed (Matthew 26:14-16) and denied by His disciples (Luke 22:54-64). Who would have thought a thing like that would happen to the Master? We also see in 2 Kings 6:5, “but as one of them was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! For it was borrowed”. This verse is another example of an unexpected occurrence. Carrying out your duty and in the process, the unexpected happens. You can clearly feel the disappointment and discouragement in the tone he used to call for help.

Some people can be very nice but wicked at heart. Friendly, having a bright smile and shiny teeth, but they are missiles ready for explosion. This kind of people we don’t see them for who they are at first but in the long run, the unexpected sets in and leaves us with feelings of regret and disappointment. This is another kind of pitfall.

Things like this still happen today. We see them in our different churches daily. Where the mission of a church is stated clearly but we choose to go our own way. Even in our organizations, we still have some challenges that was noticed from the onset. When people decide to do whatever and however, regardless of the laid down principles for the organization. When the rules aren’t obeyed, when employers treat employees with disdain. When a leader becomes autocratic in nature. When there is no team work among the employees and no employer-employee relationship, the right person will be given the wrong assignment and this leads to loses on the management.

In as much as pitfalls are unexpected, we can still avoid them. 

Decide to stay focussed: a focused person will keep their eyes on the big picture regardless of whatever distraction he encounters on the way. He will cut off expenses that are not beneficial.

Know your calling: once you know who you are, what fits you, what differentiates you from others. Discover yourself and your uniqueness.

Ask questions: never be satisfied at the level you are, always hunger for more. Don’t expect having all the answers. There are some things you may not find answers to immediately; don’t push too hard, pause and reflect.