Encouraging the Ministries of Others

Text: Colossians 4:17 Theme: Paul wanted others in the Kingdom to finish their work as well. Key verses: “Tell Archippus: ‘See to it that you complete the work you have received in the Lord.'” What God said to me: My servant, Paul, recognized that his work wasn’t the only work in my Kingdom. He knew other believers had their assignments as well. And because Paul was Kingdom-minded he wanted their work to be completed as much as he wanted his own. Paul wasn’t focused on himself and his own ministry as though that was the only one that mattered. In these last words of this letter, he took time to challenge a fellow laborer to stay the course and complete his part of the bigger vision – my vision that none would perish, but that all would come to repentance. Dwayne, Paul was willing to die for that vision. It consumed him, and he embraced it as his mission on earth. Yet, he always kept his own ministry in proper perspective. His was simply one among many that I will use to reach this world. Always keep your own life and work in proper relation to other’s around you. Never think too highly of yourself or the ministry to which I have called you. Yes, your mission is great and important and must be completed. In fact, I will hold you personally accountable if you do not disciple your family and equip worship leaders and encourage and challenge believers and illumine the lost with my Light. However, never lose sight of the thousands of other viable and important ministries out there. Furthermore, encourage and challenge and pray for them as I give you opportunity. What I said to God: Thank you, Father, for speaking to me today. Thank You, Holy Spirit, for revealing this truth to my heart. Please burn into my conscious an awareness and love for the ministries of others. May I never think only of my own work. Mine is only one piece of the puzzle, one part of the bigger plan. Thank you for Paul who had a sober and clear view of his work and his life and his accomplishments in the Kingdom. Such a view can only come from hours invested alone with You. Such a view produces a minister You can use to the fullest to also encourage others to be used to their fullest potential. Wow, I am so glad You have called me into this thing called ministry and into this thing called abundant life! Thank You, my Lord and my God!