RECOGNIZE YOUR NOTHINGNESS

The other night I was asked if I ever find myself not wanting to get up before the congregation and preach the Word. I didn’t take long to respond, “No not even once.” I’ve had some excuses not to do it. Like the time my youngest son, at age twelve, contracted juvenile diabetes and I stayed with him around the clock for a week. Even then, though I had not spent time in study, I spoke of God’s faithfulness to the church on Sunday.

I consider it a great privilege to be allowed to preach the gospel. I don’t look upon my calling as drudgery but look upon it with extreme happiness. Of all the people God could have picked, He picked me! Knowing this, I am greatly humbled. I echo Paul’s words with the same humbleness; “Though I am the least deserving of all God’s people, He graciously gave me the privilege of tell the Gentiles about the endless treasures available to them in Christ.” (Ephesians 3:8)
It didn’t take long to learn and own my weaknesses. This is the key if you want to live for Jesus. Understanding the deep truths of God’s Word does not give you a big head—it gives you a broken and repentant heart. When you come to recognize your nothingness it is at that point you are able to attempt some great thing for Jesus. The work you do for Him in your weakness will spotlight the cross and proclaim the name of Christ, who bled and died on that cross—this not solely the mission of just the pastor but every Christ-follower. Let the treasure of Christ and Him crucified be your theme in all your personal encounters with others. Since Jesus has come into your heart let your little light shine His name where ever you go. You will never grow weary in this well-doing of speaking up for Jesus. Come on do it! You know you want to—Jesus does too!

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