One of the biggest problems in the body of Christ right now is ministers going beyond their own God given boundaries and spheres of influence. It’s a Romans 12:3 and a 2 Cor. 12:12-15 problem:
For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. (Romans)
12 For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. 13 We, however, will not boast beyond measure, but within the limits of the sphere which God appointed us—a sphere which especially includes you. 14 For we are not overextending ourselves (as though our authority did not extend to you), for it was to you that we came with the gospel of Christ; 15 not boasting of things beyond measure, that is, in other men’s labors, but having hope, that as your faith is increased, we shall be greatly enlarged by you in our sphere, 16 to preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s sphere of accomplishment. (2 Corinthians)
TRUE vs FALSE MINISTERS
We are living in a day where false ministers seem to be outweighing true ministers of character, revelation, and power. The landscape of Christianity is muddied and mixed with Demetriuses more than Pauls. Selfish ambition is the scourge of modern day Christianity. Everyone wants their piece of the ministerial pie even at the expense of another. Fame and popularity is the end goal of many. Many follow the money and have lost the anointing, but sadly, most don’t even realize that the Spirit of the Lord has left them. Yet the Lord is raising up new fresh voices of faith who are crying in the wilderness for change.
You see, God uses everyone as much as He can, but often He has to discard those who disqualify themselves through lack of character. Would to God we would pay more attention to that! Exalting talent and charisma above humility and character is the weakness of the American Church. Much of the Church is run like an enterprise and a corporation, but great change has begun.
I see glory and judgment being manifested simultaneously. God is still extending mercy so we can be separate before greater judgement comes. The wheat must be separated from the chaff so that the harvest can be preserved and before the true unadulterated glory can be manifest. A day is coming that shall change everything from what is now common and familiar to us right now. The willing and obedient are being trained and equipped for the coming hardship.
REVIVAL HAS BECOME THE BIG BUZZ WORD
Revival has become a buzz word but hard times are coming. Revival is God’s mercy extended to the Church and the world, but there’s a world war that is not too far off. Satan is scheming an all-out conflict as the end of the ages draws near. Many nations are now receiving their last call. America is among them. To whom much is given much is required. Work while it is yet day; night is coming when no man can work.
Ministers need to find their place of grace and stop being competitive and territorial. You can never do what other members in the body are called and graced to do. In fact, without them, you will never fulfill God’s plan and purpose for you. The high priestly prayer of Jesus is being answered right now as the body of Christ and churches unite across the globe. Those who want the credit and desire the preeminence will not be among them. Those who say “I have no need of you” will
fall short. Humility is the remedy for exaltation. Love is the bond that links us together. Honor is the highway to the body working and moving as one.
PERSONAL DEALINGS
When my wife and I started attending a new church during Covid we did not come displaying our ministry resume of 35 years of experience and exploits. I went through new members classes and participated in foundational elements of the church vision that I really didn’t have to. I did it at the suggestion of leadership and in obedience to the Lord’s direction to humble myself. Trust must be established for unity to prevail.
Esteeming and preferring one another before ourselves is the essence of true unity. Self-centeredness short circuits that process. There wasn’t one selfish cell in Jesus’s body. He did all things for the glory of the Father and laying his total life down for all of humanity.
He made Himself of no reputation. Think about that! Until this mind prevails in each of us, we will continue to wallow in mediocrity and self-aggrandizement.
The following has been my winning verse in recent times as the Lord opens an effectual door to us in the nations.
“So then, in everything treat others the same way you want them to treat you, for this is [the essence of] the Law and the [writings of the] Prophets.” (Matt. 7:12)
He keeps echoing these words in my spirit.
“Put others first. Remember the poor. Do not neglect the youth and children. Father younger ministers. Pay attention to the small and insignificant. That’s where My heart is. Make yourself of no reputation.”
When my heart is filled with love this process becomes effortless. When I think of me too much, it becomes a grind.
GOD DOESN’T NEED US
God doesn’t need you or me. He chooses and delights in using us, but we are not expendable. He can use anyone He wants to to. Many of God’s greatest servants have moved on to heaven. No flesh can glory in His sight. We are nothing. God is everything. Don’t ever forget it! And don’t get the two mixed up.
Humble yourself. You don’t have it all. You don’t know it all. You’re not as hot as you think.