This Ministry

Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.           2 Corinthians 4:1-2 (NIV)

We have “this ministry”. My ministry, your ministry, is to take the unveiled knowledge of the hope of Jesus Christ to everyone. Jesus showed me, by His example, that it was about taking that Word of Hope, usually, to one person at a time. We have accounts that Jesus also had crowds of 4,000 and 5,000 people but most of the accounts is a one-on-one meeting with God-in-the-flesh. I have been in a large revival. It is an awesome experience to see 2,000 people literally run to the altar to receive the saving grace of Jesus Christ! It is just as extraordinary to see a person experience the Light of revelation when they accept how much they are loved that God would send His Son to die – for them.

It is in purity, holiness, humility, and honesty that God will come and make His presence known in power. Why did God manifest Himself as a whisper to Elijah instead of a violent wind or thunder? Because when God comes, He does not need to make a BIG noise to get my attention. His very presence is enough to send me to my knees and with my face to the ground.

And is “ministry” just about numbers or is it about disciples? Is the success of a ministry determined by God in numbers or in obedience? Jesus said that the angels in heaven would rejoice over the saving of one sheep vs. the 99. There may be some mother or father or grandmother who has been praying and praying for their son or daughter to know Jesus. It may be that maybe you or I are the first choice of God to be the ambassador to bring Jesus to that child. Will I say, “Yes” or is that not a ‘big enough’ assignment?

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.                  2 Corinthians 4:7-9 (NIV)

And will “this ministry”, if it is really you, LORD, be on a clear and easy path? If there is struggle and adversity, does this indicate that it is not really You? I have been crushed, confused, beat up, and pressed down harder than a paninni sandwich! God is faithful. God is the One I can trust. If I will seek my Lord, spend time with Him alone and in fellowship with other Believers, then God is faithful and trustworthy to guide and direct me in His paths. If this life is troubling and seems to be beating you up in some dark alley – do not give up! Lay down in the Hand of God. Jesus promised that if I take the Hand of God that I cannot be snatched from His Hand. (John 10:28) Paul testified that when he was totally weak – God is STRONG! (2 Corinthians 12:9) When it gets rough, press in closer to the only One who has the answers and the strength to raise you up and pull you out of the pit!

Ministry is about an opportunity to be the hands and feet of God and, in His power, lift people up to Him. From the muck and the mire, the quicksand of this world that sucks people down into despair and hopelessness, GOD IS HOPE! God’s grace, forgiveness, and wisdom is never-ending! No matter what has been, God is sufficient to make all brand new. ALL is made new in God’s ministering Hands. Do not lose heart. Give it to Jesus.