Kyle Farran, Overflowing: Ministry and Missions that Flow from the Heart (affiliate link). Franklin, TN: Carpenter’s Son Publishing, 2021.
Kyle Farran is a missionary leader based in Portugal. He previously served in South Africa and Tanzania. He wrote this book primarily for ministry leaders, but the principles he discusses apply to all Christians. I had the privilege of being a guest on his podcast, and I am going to have him on mine too. I found him to be an insightful thought leader on leadership, and this book is practical and helpful for Christian leaders.
His main point is that Christians should minister out of the overflow of what God is doing in and through our life. We are to be like a dry riverbed. We are not the life-giving water, but we can channel it to where it needs to go. We just have to remember that we are the riverbed, not the water! Farran writes that “God’s purpose is to use us like an overflowing stream” (41).
Farran addresses the issue of trust. He points out that “God makes many promises to those who trust him; but he makes no promises to those who trust in themselves” (90). He goes on to make the well-known statement, “Peace is not knowing what tomorrow holds, it is knowing who holds tomorrow” (95).
I like the concept that “Sometimes the biggest opportunities are not in change, but in persevering where we are” (97). We often believe that if we get a different job at a different organization, we will experience more success. But sometimes the success we hope to achieve only comes if we stay where we are and persevere in the work God has called us to do. He later builds on this concept: “It’s never a good idea to change ministries if I’m running from something” (181).
He makes an astute comment that “The storms of life test our theology” (103). Anyone can have pristine theology when it is not tested by real life! I like his statement that “Trials and weaknesses keep me from embezzling God’s glory” (110).
Farran argues, “God wants all of me and all of you. But this is not a hostile takeover; it’s a rescue mission” (134). I think the concept of “photobombing God” is interesting (160). He claims that whenever we try to take the glory for something, it is like we are photobombing what God has done.
I was also intrigued by Farran’s observation that “It’s impossible to pursue joy itself; we must pursue joy in something” (195). He encourages the reader to find joy in God, the ultimate source of perfect joy. Farran also points out, “You can fake your actions, not your reactions” (214). He argues that we can put on a false front to impress others, but when something catches us off guard, our natural reaction reveals our true character and what is in our heart.
Finally, Farran advises that it’s best to “simplify to multiply” (240). If you want to multiply disciples, it is best to keep the process as simple as possible. The more complex the process, the more difficult it will be to duplicate.
I enjoyed this book. It contains plenty of wisdom. It is particularly helpful for ministers and missionaries, but it is applicable to all Christians. I recommend it.
Rating: 3
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