Follow After Steadfastness
The man of God endures to the end. The word means “to bear up under, or remain under.” The weight of ministry is demanding, but by the Spirit’s help we must persevere. Remember that the goal of our ministries is a lifetime of faithfulness, not sporadic faithfulness. Obviously, there are times in which we fall down, and by God’s grace, get up again. However, we should take the long view. Pursue longevity. Do not get carried away with big events that last for a weekend. Focus on the finish line, like Jesus who endured until it was finished.
Follow After Gentleness
In Paul’s requirements for the pastor, he noted that the overseer should display gentleness not violence (1 Tim 3:3). This concept carries the idea of strength under control. It does not mean “weakness.” So, when the older lady comes up to you 10 minutes before the sermon and asks, “Why is the homecoming not in the bulletin?” think before you respond. Do not use the pulpit as a place for brow-beating either. Remember Jesus who coupled strength and authority with humility and meekness. He is the picture of godliness.
Excerpted from Faithful Preaching (B&H Publishing Group, 2009)
