The greatest preparation for ministry is not ministerial. There is a time for that, but it’s not the foundation. Someone said: “The life of the ministry is the life of the minister!” The root of ministerial training is developing your heart, character, life in Christ and life experience by walking with God.
You can’t make God use you in any particular way. You can, however, be equipped when He calls. II Chronicles 16:9 tells us God is seeking to show Himself strong on behalf of someone whose heart is fully committed to Him. God is looking for people through whom He can show Himself strong. We don’t need to persuade Him to use us; we simply need to be the person God can use!
Two favorable factors for ministry are: age and experience with God i.e. an elder and not a novice! There is a current trend of staffing churches with young people. Young people have energy and passion, but they don’t have life experience and perspective. We need what they bring to our churches, but young people should not seek or accept promotion of men until their heart is ready.
When I was first saved I began winning people to Jesus and getting them into church. Two denominations offered me a pastorate and scholarship. A large ministry wanted me to go on a national speaking tour. I knew I was capable of leading people to Jesus and ministering to new converts. I also knew I was not knowledgeable or mature enough to lead a congregation.
Learn to live in your new identity; what your hands find to do, do it with all your might; bloom where you’re planted instead of being frustrated about where you want to be. Make knowing and experiencing God your top priority, and serving others your second. Then, as you walk with God, one day you’ll hear Him calling you to a special assignment.
CLICK HERE to join me this week and learn how to make this journey into being a person God can use mightily!
