iShineInMinistry

Ephesians 4:1 (NKJV)

I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called,

Have you ever met someone in ministry that just adores serving, even in the hard times? Someone that fully rests in the faithfulness of the Lord even in times of discouragement? I have a friend like that and every time she faces a new challenge (she oversees a ministry that deals with extreme cases) she is ready to pray, search God's word and ask for prayer to see things clearly. These people truly have a servant heart and are willing to do every part of the ministry, even the "not-so-fun" parts.

Then we meet other people. Their hearts are filled with annoyance over every single thing and they can find fault in all aspects of ministry. They complain about the potluck food, or the music being too loud, or that it's too hot, then it's too cold. Nothing about their words makes you feel like they enjoy their calling. Sometimes it is very difficult to see how they even got there, but we know the Lord has a plan.

Whether you are the first person I described or the second one, we need to surrender to our calling at all times. God has placed us here for a reason and we are to be an example of Him and be filled with Him. Our wrath has no place in ministry. We can't hurt the flock that the Lord has entrusted to us like that. We are held accountable by God for this!

Instead of being flustered, annoyed or angry all of the time, choose joy. Choose to see how God is using this season and this calling. Choose to obey and say yes to what He has planned for you in ministry. If you know you are way too far gone for this...take a season of to get your heart softened and in a good place again. We should be blessed for the privilege to serve our Lord in this specific way and want to shine for Him. Say yes to the calling always and trust that He will give you the strength, courage, wisdom and joy to carry out this calling!

Philippians 2:14-15 (NKJV)

Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,