Ministry Despite Misery

The test will produce a testimony.
A message will come from from the mess.

And yes, sadly, there will be moments of misery in the ministry.

Christianity is a self-sacrificing faith.

It's not about us, but man, if the enemy doesn't do everything possible to keep us frustrated and focused on the problems and difficulties of that don't extend beyond the driveway. So while it may not even take much of matter to distract us, it can be enough that we refocus our sight on the test, mess and misery rather than what God is working within us to create a "final product"

God is never done with us; we have never fully arrived. And that should comfort us greatly. But even that truth causes some sadness, as if we won't get a reprieve from the struggles of life.

But to those who continue to place their trust in Him, He is faithful.
In our weakness, He is strong.
And those who call upon the name of the Lord, are saved.

It's not easy to continually remind ourselves, that this life is not ours and this ground is not our home; especially as society and culture places an ever-increasing emphasis on self-identity and self-assurance. But it's necessary. For as God gave, so do those who follow Him.

On this #missionsFriday, pray that God would strengthen and encourage those bogged down by the test and the mess. Pray the Holy Spirit would quicken them and remind them that the battle is not forever. May there be a grace; an unexplainable grace in the lives of missionaries. Not that life is perfect, but that God is good and faithful. May their message and ministry not be hindered or derail because of today's momentary afflictions.

For the glory of God
And the advancement of the Gospel.

- PNC