You get results in an unconventional way. That's why God chose you. Prophetic ministry is never easy. You are not your own and you must learn to obey God rather than man. Loyalty to the call is essential and adherence to an ethical code that runs contrary to your natural desires and selfish ambitions can be maddening. Don't be a preacher if you can help it. And if you can quit, by all means do so. This is not for the faint of heart. When you do your best, it's too little for some and too much for others. If you're like me you didn't take up ministry; it took you.
What is particularly difficult, not just for preachers but all true believers, is we must often lead from behind. It is blatantly clear to all who observe you in your ordinary life that your are "losing". The words that come up commonly about you include “religious,” “old-fashioned,” "boring" and “out of touch.” It’s not surprising because there is a huge gap between the way we as believers actually experience faith and the way it is perceived by the world. During the great Egyptian empire Joseph was strategically placed there by God to preserve his family during a time of great famine. One of the most important rules for them to follow was to keep their occupation as herdsmen a secret because the Egyptians hated shepherds (Gen.46:34). The world still hates shepherds/pastors and those who truly care for others. Why? Because representing Christ to those around you means that others get to see Him in you.
Those who were just casually going about their day to day activities are now being confronted with the personality of Jesus in you. They become aware that He really is a person who loves them because you prove it by being like Him. This is God's way of vindicating your testimony and life. So rejoice! You are pulling meaning out of mystery. You, like Joseph have been sent ahead of others to preserve them. (continued tomorrow)
Prayer
Lord, I thank you for the special call on my life to reach others by becoming more like You. Transform me into Your likeness for Your glory, Amen
Go Deeper
Genesis 37:36; Genesis 39:11-23; Psalm 37:1-9; Isaiah 42:8; 2 Timothy 2:3; Hebrews 2:11; 1 Peter 4:12
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