“that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9
Out of the darkness into the Son-light is a description of our salvation. This hallmark statement is our testimony and a launch pad for those around us searching for hope, searching for the answers, searching for peace, searching for relief from torment, searching for the truth. All are found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you.” Jeremiah 1:5
Jeremiah spells out God’s call to “why ministry” in three steps;
1. Driven by God’s purpose -
What makes your heart sing? God’s call is not a onetime event. The vision God instilled in you is a lifelong process. Your ministry combines your interest, your past, your goals. The vision or ministry passion becomes clearer when we are open and obedient to God’s voice. When we commit to God, He opens the opportunities that best fit us. By fulfilling our divine purpose, we “declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.” We have a story to tell to the nations. We have a light in Jesus that should not be hidden. We have divine purpose to live a lifestyle ministry.
“The word of the LORD came to me, saying…” Jeremiah 1:4
2. Given your unique vision –
God calls some, like Jeremiah to do a specific ministry. Jeremiah was a prophet called to turn a nation back to God. He was a faithful messenger even though in the beginning he was reluctant. His inadequacies and fear challenged him. We often feel the same way as Jeremiah did. God is always patient and caring about our shortfalls. Most of us will never be in the position to lead a nation. Still, God promises to give us the courage, wisdom and words for every mission He assigns to us.
“You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them for I am with you and will rescue you,’ declares the LORD.” Jeremiah 1:7-8
3. Effective in His plan -
God had the ministry plan before we were born. We cannot understand the marvelous ways of our God. We can only trust and obey His leading. We are to focus on our divine appointments not our disappointments. Our motivation is not destructive but constructive according to God’s direction. It is easy to be discouraged in ministry. Still God’s word encourages us to; “not be afraid … I am with you and will rescue you,’ declares the LORD.” Life is filled with trials and storms, even in ministry. No matter the trauma of life, God still calls us to ministry.
“I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you … Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified … I am with you,’ declares the LORD.” Jeremiah 1:9-10, 17, 19
Kommentare