Continue to Run the Race!

"We have around us many people whose lives tell us what faith means.  So let us run the race that is before us and never give up.  We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back.  Let us look only to Jesus, the One who began our faith and who makes it perfect.  He suffered death on the cross.  But He accepted the shame as if it were nothing because of the joy that God put before him.  And now he is sitting at the right side of God's throne.  Think about Jesus' example.  He held on while wicked people were doing evil things to him.  So do not get tired and stop trying."
Hebrews 12:1-3

I would like to encourage those who have faithfully accepted the call that God had on their lives to serve in full-time Christian ministry.  Derrick and I have given our lives away for the last 17 years, following the passion that Jesus placed within us to draw others to His heart and throne.  We have had amazingly wonderful times, growing times, stretching our faith times, wilderness times, painful times and lonely times.  The demand is great because as pastors, you are on call 24/7.  The burden is heavy at times when you seek which direction God wants you to lead the people that He entrusts to you.  The road seems long as you walk beside those who waver in their faith.  You will be hurt at times by those closest to you.  You will let some down when they have had you on a pedestal. You will have days when you feel completely alone without anyone to talk to because your whole world involves those in your congregation.  You will make mistakes and have some look at you with grace and others turn their back on you.  You will be exhausted when every night is consumed with meetings, small groups, rehearsals, services, weddings, funerals and counseling.
In the midst of it all, just remember that we see throughout scripture that Jesus has experienced each of these hard times as well during His ministry on earth.  Stand firm on His promises:
"For those who wait on the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary."  Isaiah 40:31


"My brothers and sisters, when you have many kinds of troubles, you should be full of joy, because you know that these troubles will test your faith, and this will give you patience.  Let your patience show itself perfectly in what you do.  Then you will be perfect and complete and will have everything you need."  James 1:2-4


"Be strong and brave, because you will lead these people into the land the Lord promised to give their ancestors, and help them take it as their own.  The Lord Himself will go before you.  He will be with you; he will not leave you or forget you.  Don't be afraid and don't worry."  Deuteronomy 31:7-8


As I witness people choosing to give their lives to Christ and are allowing Him to transform them, it makes every trial fade away.  In the midst of the hard times, keep running the race and keep your eyes on the prize....another life getting to experience the intimate love of their very creator!