When does perseverance, a must-have quality of a mature disciple of Christ, turn into plain old mule-headed stubbornness? It’s not a theoretical question. It’s not uncommon to see people hang onto ‘ministries’ that lost focus, purpose, and/or mission years prior. Yet, they just keep on going and going like the Energizer Bunny. In those situations tradition, pride, or a mistaken sense of ‘faithfulness’ trumps the will of God. Some stay in positions for which they are no longer suited or where they are no longer effective. Why? They feel that ‘God called me here.’ Flip the coin and you’ll see many more who quit too soon, who run out when the going gets tough. I am a great admirer of those who stick with their commitments, who stay long enough to finish what they started, to see the fruit from the seeds they planted. Thinking about all this prompts a question– “When is the time to quit?”
There is a principle that all of us must recognize, especially when it comes to our ministry calling. It does not belong to us. In 2 Corinthians 4:1, Paul acknowledges the source of all true ministry: “having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart.” We do not choose our own calling, nor do we get to select our spiritual gifts. Our position or place in God’s service is not earned or deserved. God mercifully choose to include us in His work. So, we hold it loosely, even while treasuring it dearly! Whatever I do in the Lord’s work is not ‘my ministry.’ It is the ministry, God’s ministry; and I am privileged to participate.
The Word says that we are so grateful for the calling that we will never quit just because we get discouraged. The cost of service is nothing compared to privilege and since it is God Who calls us, it is only God Who releases us.
In speaking of his ministry, Paul uses a couple of words that are critically important to all faithful ministers. (Don’t read that as ‘preacher.’ All disciples are ministers.)
· In 2 Corinthians 2:17, we learn that we are ‘sent’ on our mission. We are not Christian entrepreneurs who set ourselves up in the work of God, selling salvation. We are appointed and anointed by the Spirit. If we are sent, then we don’t get to choose when we ‘go home,’ do we? If He chooses to recall us, then we must relinquish the baton, but until then, we are to stay on post.
· In 2 Corinthians 3:16 we are reminded that we are ‘competent.’ "He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." (2 Corinthians 3:6, NIV) I am not sure where I first heard this statement: “Where God guides, He provides.” I know it sounds a little simplistic, but it is a life principle for me. When I think, even for a few moments, about my own qualifications to preach the Word, counsel God’s people, or lead a church, there are two emotions that I experience in about equal proportions: fear and hilarity! I remarked to someone the other day: “Who am I to stand and speak for God?” Truthfully, I am nobody, but the Spirit makes me a competent minister of the Gospel. We do not do what we do for God alone or by own strength. If we attempt the supernatural using only natural abilities, then failure is inevitable. However, if we are sent by God and made competent by the Spirit, we cannot fall and we will not falter.
If you’re thinking about quitting, go ask your Master. If you’re just tired or discouraged, He can renew your strength. If He’s re-commissioning you to a new calling, He will make it plain. If you have decided that it’s your thing and you are taking ownership, think again.
Here’s a word from the Word. Meditate on it today and the Lord will make His plan and purpose clear.
"But because God was so gracious, so very generous, here I am. And I’m not about to let his grace go to waste. Haven’t I worked hard trying to do more than any of the others? Even then, my work didn’t amount to all that much. It was God giving me the work to do, God giving me the energy to do it." (1 Corinthians 15:10, The Message) "That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!" (2 Corinthians 4:16-17, NLT)
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