Devotionals

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For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. 10 You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; 11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, 12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12 NKJV

If anyone is considering quitting their job to go into “ministry” full time, stop. The first verse above tells us that Paul worked. He had a job, so he was able to provide for himself. Yet, he still preached the gospel.

I had a co-worker and friend of mine tell me she was considering leaving her job, where we both worked, and finding a Christian job or perhaps work at the church. She felt like she needed to move in the direction of ministry. I thought this was kind of funny. From my perspective, I’ve always thought ministry happens wherever you are. In fact, where I work, I am ministering by being who I am in Christ.

Don’t misunderstand, there’s nothing wrong with working for the church or a Christian employer. Just be certain that God is really calling you to make a change. Pray, ask for wisdom. Don’t overlook the opportunities right before you. Remember, everyone needs to know Christ and be saved. Chances are there are plenty of folks around you that could use the saving grace of Christ to give them hope for eternity.

After much prayer and self examination, in the end, my friend decided, she was in a way trying to run away from the ugliness of the secular world. Now, she is ministering right where she is. It’s beautiful to watch her discover how to use her gifts in her current role to minister to those around her.

Be who God called you to be. Keep alert and pray for everyone around you. Even if you never say a single word about Christ, you still can make a difference through prayer and the decisions you make at work. Be faithful to God, right where He has you. One day, you’ll heard Him say what Matthew 25:21 says: “The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together! ’”

Look around, who needs an encouraging word? Who needs some uplifting prayers? Is anyone really exempt from those questions? The answer: Everyone needs it. Start today, pray for someone you work with and you’ll be starting your own ministry, right where you are!

Copyright Elizabeth Marks
Free to share with link included: http://www.ThinkOnItDevotions.com

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