Ministry can be one of the hardest things to do for a lifetime.  People often beat you up verbally and create expectations that even Jesus would not be able to live up too.  The hours it takes to minister to everyone and to be there for all they value often leaves you with a family in a mess.  Can ministry this way really be what God intended for the disciples or even for us as we carry the message of the cross into our generation.  I think not.

The problem begins when we forget what is most important and start focusing on reaching those inside the church more than reaching those outside.  In our lack of self-confidence we do not stand up to what is going on and we just fall into line with the expectations that are being put upon us.  However, in 2 Thessalonians this morning I read a few verses that should become the prayer of those who are ministering on God’s behalf.

“…pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.  And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not everyone has faith.  but the Lord is faithful, and he will stregthen and protect you from the evil one.  We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command.  May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.”

Can you imagine what would happen if we started asking people to pray that prayer for us?  Let us give God the glory and find our confidence in Him as we reach out to His people and love the unloved.  May we turn over to God our enemies and fear not moving forward in the ways of the Lord and the message of the cross.  Let us turn to those who are believers and ask them to pray for us.

Let this be my prayer for you this morning.  Will you pray this prayer for me?