John 4:27-38
When the disciples returned, they were surprised to find Jesus talking with a woman, but kept it to themselves. They offered him food, but he refused to eat, saying that his nourishment came from doing the work of God.
Does the work of God energize or drain you? As humans, we need food and rest. But is there another factor in ministry that we miss? When we follow the will of God and the Holy Spirit empowers us for his work, we are encouraged and spiritually nourished. But is there physical, mental, and emotional nourishment as well? When I disciple a group of men, and there is honest interchange, humility, application of God’s Word to life, and spiritual transformation is taking place, I am energized. Perhaps that is my ministry “sweet spot,” the intersection of spiritual gifts, calling of God and surrender to him.
Jesus went on to talk about the harvest, meaning bringing people to salvation. It’s God’s harvest and we are laborers working in his service. Sometimes we sow, and sometimes we reap. It’s not all up to us! We are part of a larger endeavor, orchestrated by God. He invites us into his work where we co-labor with millions of others.
Serving God should never be drudgery! Rather, we are privileged to enter his service, and will be drawing wages of life nourishment, eternal purpose, and joy.
“Lord, open my eyes to see the ‘white unto harvest’ fields around me. May I be alert to the opportunities to sow or reap today. Amen.”
No comments:
Post a Comment