Jesus Christ came to serve and not to be served (Mark 10:45). He washed Peter’s feet as an example of a God in human form demonstrated humility. But we are finite people compared to an infinite God (Revelation 1:8).
Before deciding to join a ministry, we must be patient (Romans 8:25) and ask for the Holy Spirit’s leading (John 16:13). Being in the ministry doesn’t only cost time but also money. When there is disorder of priorities, the ministry will consume us completely and we are dishonoring God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
It is not only the pastor’s role to serve but for everyone to be involved in the different callings in the church (Romans 12:6-8). For we are one body with many parts and all belong to each other (Romans 12:4-5).
Starting something isn’t the hardest, the maintaining phase is. So how do we maintain our ministry growth despite the juggling phase of work-family balance?
Look vertically. You cannot give what you don’t have is a common statement we hear. Ministry compromises your chance to worship during the Sunday service (Romans 12:13).
God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.
-1 Peter 4:10
Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.
-Galatians 6:10
The fullness of His presence in our lives manifests how we treat people. Yes we can be easily deceived of how people chose to present their selves but we are not promoting hypocrisy in the church.
Excellence for His glory. Everyone has given natural talents and abilities. Choosing to disregard His gifts will result of abduction (Matthew 25:29-30). The parable of talents shows how people handle stewardship. Excellency isn’t only work ethic it is a standard in serving Him. Though God cursed Adam in Genesis 3:17-19 to work and toil it is a blessing that indicates our determination.
Ministry begins at home. “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household. (Acts 16:31)” is often an excuse why leaders cannot give enough time for their family. Ministry became an idol replacing the horizontal relationships God gave to our lives.
If you aren’t fulfilling your role as a husband with your pregnant wife’s need, then it’s about time to reevaluate your life! We don’t have to hasten our lives to prove we are progressive in our Christian walk for only God knows our hearts (Jeremiah17:10).
For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:18). The put simply, the Cross is also a representation of two relationships, the vertical and horizontal.
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.
– Romans 12:9-10
