I have been a Christian for over 30 years and a pastor for nearly a decade. Most of the time when I get up to speak the word of the living God it is almost always well received. Yet every now and then there are those individuals that are having a hard time receiving what the Lord has given me to share. Some I can tell just by the looks on their faces and others will come right up to me after the service and speak their mind.
One thing that I have learned over the years is to never be ashamed of representing Jesus, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God at work saving everyone who believes…” Romans 1:16. That is why it is so important to not “draw back” because we are Gods “mouthpiece” and “How will they hear without a preacher?…” When we teach or preach what the Lord has given us, he is able to do his part: to save and sometimes correct. I have compassion on these folks because I know as a Christian what this feels like to have the Lord correct me, which can cause a real uneasiness. This has happened a number of times during my walk with the Lord, (and still does) and it’s not because he is mad at me (you) it’s because he “loves” us, “No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening-It’s painful! But after ward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way (who receive their correction)” Hebrews 12:11 Take the message on “forgiving others” for instance, once we hear what the word of God says about this issue, and we receive it with an open mind, we are able to make the necessary adjustments and experience his peace again.
So as a preacher, I am to continue to speak boldly what the Lord has given me and not be afraid of what others may think. Because I know that even though there may be a temporary uneasiness for some, I can take comfort in the fact that God is speaking to the hearts of those listening. And if his words are received lives can be saved, changed and brought to a closer walk with the Lord.
Always in Love: Always remember that as ministers of Jesus Christ we are to deliver our messages with “love” I remember when I first started teaching and preaching I would deliver my messages with “attitude” as if I had something to prove. I have good news for you: All the Lord requires of us is to deliver his message in a loving attitude and the word and Spirit of God will do their part. Even now before I get up to speak I ask the Lord to help me to share his word in “love” When I do this I have found that the people are more receptive which opens their heart to “hear” from the Lord, and that is what matters most.
“Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of the church.” Ephesians 4:15
