What motivates you to do ministry?
Read the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians slowly and look for his motivation for ministry, in spite of opposition!
1You know, brothers, that our visit to you was not a failure. 2We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition. 3For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. 4On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts. 5You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness.6We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else. I Thess 2:1-4 NIV
A true sign that Paul was motivated by God is that he continued to minister in spite of opposition.
As you minister to people, this passage reminds us to:
Stay Faithful in Spite of Opposition.
Remember that our calling comes from God, not men.
Be careful to preach the truth of God’s word, not error
Minister with sincerity not flattery or trickery.
Be motivated by love, not greed or personal gain.
Ultimately, God will test our hearts; He knows our true motives.
Let’s Pray:
Lord, as I labor in ministry, please test my heart to be sure that
I am serving people with pure motives. Help me to never be motivated
by personal gain or greed or deceit or flattery or error or trickery.
Instead help me to be motivated by obedience to you call on my life,
the truth of your Word and love for your people. Lord, I repent today
of any impure motive as I serve your precious people!
In Jesus Name! Amen!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
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