iShineInMinistry

Philippians 1:6

being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;

I love the joy of serving in full-time ministry at a church, being able to see, interact and intercede for the people of God all day, every day. I love talking to the youth and young women, I love reading Bible stories to toddlers or cuddling a teething baby...or sharing a scripture just when someone needs it. I also love that I don't have to be perfect to serve at the church...because I so am NOT perfect at all!

Sometimes it seems as if people want their church workers to be these prefect people that say the right thing, pray the perfect prayer and always look like nothing bad could possibly go wrong in their lives. This unrealistic expectation can cause two major issues- pressure to perform for the person working in full-time ministry as well as a person in ministry who seems like they can't relate to anyone that has real-life issues.

How can someone that never has trials meet you where you are in your situation? How can someone that is "perfect" all the time show compassion for the sin someone perpetually struggles with? A transparent ministry member that shows they depend on and rely on the same God as everyone else is the one that impacts more for Christ. That person is real, sincere and genuine; she (or he) is someone that you can tell is a work in progress, but one that also trusts in The Lord with all her (or his) heart.

As you continue in the work of the ministry and remember that God is still doing the work in you, encourage others with the fact that you aren't where you used to be, but still have a long way to go on your journey of faith just like they have a long way to go. Be that light that shines love and sincerity as you bless those God puts in your path and run this race with endurance. Be that source of encouragement as you also play the cheerleader in the lives of others seeking The Lord. It's okay that you are the imperfect hands and feet doing the will of God, we all are- otherwise we would not need a Savior. As you love the people of God, show who you really are and Christ continues the good work in your life, you will be that example of one that loves Jesus and serves with sincerity- a transparent person that wants more of God...who gets the blessing of working in full-time ministry. Let people know that you did not get there because you're perfect and you've earned that position, but that you are there because you also know how if feels as God is completing the work until the day of Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 2:9

not of works, lest anyone should boast.

You're not perfect, but you are in ministry...praise The Lord for His grace as you serve with gladness and do His will.