Ministry is not always easy.  It is the ability to put others before yourself.  Many people feel that if they don’t have a title, job description, or a microphone in their hand, then they don’t have a ministry.  I want you to know, that if you are saved by the grace of Jesus Christ, you have a ministry!  As I stated in the opening sentence, ministry is not always easy. You see, no matter what kind of situations we go through or battle, we are still required to be a blessing.

A few weeks ago, I began to really question ministry.  In a conversation with the Holy Spirit, I would find myself complaining, “Ok, I will do my best to be a blessing.  Love people, put others before myself, and walk around with a smile on my face.  I will do my best, but it all feels so fake because I’m not truly happy!”  I would then realize that this was more selfishness than anything, because at the root of the problem, I still worried and cared more about my life than the lives of others.  I would then discover, through a daily devotion, that true joy is a choice—one that comes to those who have devoted themselves to something greater!  I believe that something greater is the kingdom of God.  Scripture says in Matthew, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added unto you.”  I believe with all my heart that “these things,” are the needs and desires of our heart.  It is a promise from God saying, “If you will take care of my business, I will take care of your business!”

Though the learning process might be hard sometimes, the growth is worth it.  I may have thought I had learned the lesson, but I obviously didn’t get the message.  So, I was taught another lesson.  This happened just recently when our pastor and family were out of town, fulfilling ministry obligations.  Therefore I had the privilege of feeding their animals all week long.  One morning, I walked to the back door of their home, and I noticed a picture on the wall that said:

Ministry is:

Giving when you feel like keeping,
Praying for others when you need prayer,
Feeding others when your soul is hungry,
Hurting with others when your own hurt can’t be spoken,
Keeping your word when it’s not convenient,
Being faithful when your soul wants to run away!

I laughed to myself and said, “Dude, suck it up.  Don’t be such a pansy, and be a blessing!”  That may sound humorous, or even ignorant, the way I talked to myself.  But, one thing I have learned; sometimes you gotta pick yourself up, when no one else will, all for the sake of ministry!  And, never forget that you have a ministry, so Be a Blessing!