iShineInMinistry

Philippians 4:8 (KJV)

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

This scripture has been my life verse since I was 17 years old and I know that it always seems to bring me back to perspective when life feels as if it’s in disarray. The words have reminded me to keep my eyes, heart and mind where they need to be and to always look to the Lord and godly things when I feel at a loss. I know that when we serve in ministry we can feel at a loss when someone hurts us, says something untrue about us or decides that they do not agree with us and create drama or division as a result. These times are difficult to deal with in ministry; however, we need to recall the truth that the Lord is our defense in those moments and we do not have to delve into the drama and feed the unnecessary situation.

What is true? What is honest? What is just? Do you need to remind yourself about the truth when you are in the middle of a situation? Do you need to recall that even though people are not always just in the way they deal with conflict God is? Do you have to make sure you are being completely honest in this situation? Is your heart pure as you try to get through the issue? Are you thinking of the lovely way that God will even use this for good as He promises in Romans 8:28 because you are the called? Do you remember that you have a good report? Otherwise God would not have called you into full-time ministry to serve these ladies!

Recall this scripture and let God handle these hard moments. Please do not try to fight your own battles if God is clearly using this to allow you to trust Him to be your defense. Let Him do the moving on your behalf and let yourself recall this scripture and write it on the tablet of your heart, even when the things that are happening may be hurtful. God is the God who sees and He is going to be with you in the hard moments when ministry feels more like middle school drama than the body of Christ.

Psalm 59:9 (NKJV)

I will wait for You, O You his Strength;

For God is my defense.

We all know that people are not perfect; otherwise there would be no need for a Savior! Remember this as you walk through a difficult time in inter-personal relationships, remember God’s truths and let Him be your defense.