But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. 2 Timothy 4:5 NIV
This scripture directs the reader to self control, encouraging the believer to endure hardship in discharging his duty to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world. As Christians, we are all called to this task. The Lord calls us to give our testimony and show ourselves as examples of the transformative power of establishing a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Called to Ministry
God calls us to ministry even if he does not call us to be a minister. This is because we are part of the body of Christ. Each member of the body is part of the whole. Each member is a part of the ministry.
We read in 1 Corinthians 12:4-5, “Now there are various kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are various kinds of service, and the same Lord. WEB” No matter what your gifts, no matter what service, the same Spirit guides us to serve the Lord. The Lord calls us to use the gifts given by the Holy Spirit to glorify his name.
In his letter, Paul encouraged Timothy to give his very best in his ministry in spite of inevitable trouble. In our lives of service, we may be tempted to quit or give less than our best because of discouraging circumstances. We may become overwhelmed. Paul reminds us to keep our heads, endure hardship, and continue to press forward in faith.
God has promised that he will not put more on us than we can bear. In response to any opposition to the spreading of the truth of Jesus Christ, the believer moves forward with the spirit of Philippians 4:13 saying, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the gifts I have received from the Holy Spirit. Help me to endure hardship and give my very best in your service. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: By His Grace
