Friday, July 24, 2009

Perfect Pastor?

In my imagination, I sometimes think I could create the perfect minister. I'd take the eloquence of ______, the knowledge of ______, the zeal of ______, and the pastoral meekness, tenderness, and piety of ______. Then, putting them all together into one man, I'd say to myself, "This is the perfect pastor."

Now there is One, who, if he chose to, could actually do this; but he never did it. He has seen fit to do otherwise, and to divide these gifts to every man severally as he will. (Richard Cecil, Memoirs of the Rev. John Newton, p. 107.)

[by John Piper, from Desiring God Blog]

Pastor, God Loves You Immensely

Luke 12:6-7; "Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows" (NKJV).

Pastor, you need to hear what you so often share with others. You tell people on many occasions that God is truly interested in their life and the circumstances that they are facing. Be reminded today that there are times in which we need to reflect on those spiritual truths that we have deposited in the lives of others. Is it possible that the enemy seeks for us to forget those truths when we are facing our own personal adversity? It is at those moments that we need to remember the promise of Christ found in Luke; God watches the sparrows but people are more valuable than the sparrows.

Be reminded today that Biblical truth. God has not forgotten you. God has not forsaken you. You are significant to God and the service that you offer to Him is important. God is near to you during your adversity and He is aware of the fears that you are facing. But rest assured that God is for you and that He is not against you. Trust in Him with all of your heart and lean on the promises of God and He will see you through the struggles that you are facing.

Take time today to remember the promises that God has declared to you and over you.

Blessings on your walk with God.

[by Michael Willingham]