Monday’s Ministry Encouragement: Written to encourage you, my friend in ministry, to be refreshed and renewed as we live for Christ and look toward the Bema.
So sad! I read again of another pastor quitting the ministry.
Pastor friend, are you tempted to do the same? Has that urge become more frequent in recent days or weeks? Do you have long hours, days or weeks of feeling depleted, down, discouraged, distraught and disappointed? Are you living in a land of unbelief?
Simply put and perhaps hard for you to swallow, but may I say, “Don’t Quit!!!” This not the answer.
1. Run to the cross! Get on your knees and open your Bible to Matthew 26-27. Audibly and slowly read each line; fix your gaze on Jesus as He makes His way to the cross. Linger there. Once you do, then meditate on Hebrews 12:1-3 and the following passages that reveal to us what Jesus did for you as your substitute—John 10:11, 15, 17-18; 15:13; Romans 5:8; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 5:2; 1 Timothy 2:6; Hebrews 9:12.
2. Then go to Genesis and read again about the life of Joseph (Genesis 37, 39-50). Talk to God about what you see, what the Holy Spirit reveals to you. Jot down your thoughts.
3. Soak your soul in Psalms 42-43. Once again, audibly read these passages, and pour out your heart before the Lord. Tell him everything you are thinking and feeling. Be real, be honest, be transparent. You are no different than David.
4. The same God Who called you is the same God Who loves you, accepts you in Christ, keeps His promises, and knows where you are in this pit. No matter how you feel, He is there in your time of despair. His Word does not fail (Hebrews 13:5).
5. Now, turn to Psalm 103, 145-146 and give Him praise!!! Go ahead! Lift your hands, your voice, your heart to God!! Cry out to Him! Even if you don’t feel like it, ask your Heavenly Father to give you the strength to praise Him!! Praise Him for Who He is!!
6. Call a ministry friend and let him share in your burden. You can’t make it out of this pit alone. 1 Thessalonians 5:14, Encourage one another. Perhaps you can read the Word together, sing together, pray together, weep together, etc.
Pastor friend, Jesus has not and will not quit on you! He will shepherd you through the valley. He’s been there, too (Hebrews 4:14-16).
(Need a listening ear, a caring heart? Reach out to me at dalewaynecunningham@gmail.com. Perhaps your wife needs encouragement, contact Denise at refreshherblog@gmail.com)
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