I am often puzzled by Christians in general and ministers in specific who think the walk and call of a believer should be easy, maybe moderately stressful on occasion. What Bible are you reading?
Here is what I think and I am pretty sure the Bible teaches. The ministry is tough! If you are not ready to handle it, you need to grow up quick or find another profession. God’s call is not to “skip your latte and follow me” or “miss your date night and follow me”. It is take up your CROSS and follow me.
Some of the greatest lessons I learned about my call were during my seventeen years in bi-vocational ministry. It was a struggle. I would work a forty hour plus week and then head to the church to follow my passion. My wife by my side, my children in tow, we would labor alongside all the wonderful volunteers who were doing the exact same thing. I was their leader, but often they were my teacher. They taught me that leadership begins with sacrificial servanthood, not status, or position.
I am afraid that there are many leaders in the church today who have not counted the cost of their calling. We need to all remember that we are called to a cross not a country club. It’s a new week! Let’s get to WORK serving the Master.
