p e r s o n a l

No supermen

One thing I became very determined about sitting under pastors was that if I was ever to have a written or spoken ministry that the messages must be as easily applicable to the labourer or accountant as to those in full time ministry. As I came to better understand what Christianity is I found my thinking easily falling into line with this desire. I believe all Christians are called to a radical life, but most within a seemingly ordinary context. For instance, there is no conflict between secular work (unless the work itself is evil) and the Christian life. In secular work we should also be poured out to serve others, Jesus thus being seen in us as we work quietly, eat our own bread, and concerning provision are blameless before the unsaved.

Tempting

Pausing for reflection I've noticed that when I think to myself 'tempting', 'tempting offer' or similar I am indeed being tempted away from God's will, yet remarkably the matter is trivialised in my mind by saying this. It is almost unbelievable how Satan can break down our defenses in such subtle ways, in this case through the association that when we say 'tempting' it's really, spiritually speaking, only a very light matter.

Vessels of gold

I imagine I'm not alone in trying to put the cart before the horse, wanting to be more fully taken up in ministry and striving within myself to see the way. However the bible shows our way forward with simple clarity.

But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.

If a man therefore purges himself from these {evil things}, he shall be a vessel of honour, sanctified, and appropriate for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work. (II Tim 2:20-21)

If we in the spirit strive simply to become a vessel of gold then we become ready for Gods use and he will provide the work. We need only concern ourselves with obedience and God will do the rest. I know this by the word of God and by experience too. However, I still fnd it hard to be patient, partly through failing to fully recognise and value the service God has ordained for me in humble things