Just because you’re a pastor/minister doesn’t mean you are perfect! Ha! Far from it! So why does God use his ministers to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ if we’re not perfect? Simple answer: Treasure in human vessels, ” We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves.” 2Corinthians 4:7.
What does that mean? God puts HIS gifts in his people and as people we have all kinds of weaknesses and short comings, all of us, whether we’re called to the pulpit or not.
As a minister are we called to live what we preach? Absolutely! Are we perfect at it or have we arrived? NO!! I just like you have a choice to make: Do I love and forgive others? If I choose not to, God will allow it. Is it good for me to get around to doing what he says? Yes!
I need God’s mercy just like anyone else. In fact I thank God every day for his mercy and do my best to show mercy to others. Why? I learned a long time ago, Jesus himself taught me and he was very serious about it: He said “if you don’t forgive neither will your father in heaven forgive your sins.” Mark 11.
So when I’m confronted by people who hurt me or judge me, my first reaction is just like yours: I get angry and hurt and have to work it out. But once I “yield” to his correction (reminding that I need forgiveness too) it produces peace in my life. I like peace. I dont’ like living in anger and frustration at others.
I’m sure you can tell by now that I have had to practice this recently, in fact I’ve had to practice just this morning! I am very thankful that God reminded me that when others lash out and judge you, they are going through their own issues. When we try to FIX others and correct them that is a sure sign that WE need to FIX ourselves, ” Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?” Mathew 7:3. Basically Jesus is saying if you pay attention to your own business, you wont be tempted to get involved in other peoples business. In fact the bible says to mind YOUR own business!
So the next time you feel the urge to correct someone that does not involve you, think again and work on your own life.
Pastor Nina Tidwell of Ponce Church on Facebook