Ever feel incredibly discouraged? Does life feel pointless? Does hope appear far away?
In reviewing my journal, searching for an illustration for a Bible study lesson I’m developing, I found the following notes:
“My dreams are no longer fuel for me. I’m just going through the motions. I’m going to give up pursuing [a specific ministry dream]. I’m not going to pursue one more opportunity. If the Lord has it for me He will bring it to me. I’m tired of putting myself out there and feeling rejected.”
It looks like I was having a hard day!
The following day, I read from 2 Timothy 4:1-8 and was reminded of the great suffering Paul experienced pursuing ministry. Yet, he encouraged Timothy with the following words.
“As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5 ESV
Paul’s pursuit was not to lift himself but Christ and Christ’s purposes. Am I willing to endure suffering for Him? Am I willing to do the work required to fulfill my calling? Am I willing to be rejected for Him and His purposes?
It was shortly after this experience that I had a breakthrough in my ministry. The enemy wants nothing more than to stifle our pursuit of what God has called us to do. We must not give up but choose to press on through the hardships, rejections, frustrations and seasons when our “feeling” cannot be trusted.
Image courtesy of “Future” by graur razvan ionut at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Copyright©2016, Gloria Stucky
Needed this today! Thanks Gloria