How to have healthy ministry

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Paul of Tarsus by Bernardo Daddi c. 1333Image via Wikipedia
Consider the following flaws that Satan can and will use to keep us in bondage and even despair. Things like (my definitions):
Judgmental — a negative assessment, opinion or estimation of another person (perhaps a ministerial colleague).
Cynicism — a tendency to be suspicious of the motives and virtues of others.
Fear — an emotional reaction to the unknown; a reluctance to trust.
Control — a need for power over others and to dominate circumstances.
Jealousy — envious of another's success, position, possessions.
I am certain that in my life I have allowed each of the aforementioned flaws to create difficulty for me, both in ministry and also in relationships with others. All of this in spite of the admonition of the Apostle Paul to "live above all of this.""Therefore, as God's chosen people ... clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" (Col. 3:12, 13).

When Paul was writing to the Corinthians regarding the Lord's Supper, he mentioned the importance of self-examination (1 Cor. 11:28) before they participated. Good advice for all; especially those of us in the ministry. Examine yourself. Are there those things that need to be addressed before you stand in the pulpit or go about your sacerdotal duties? Just asking.

The more obstacles to ministry we are able to eradicate, the more power we will have to live the life God has in mind for us to live. So, please, my colleague, take a moment and engage in some soul searching and self-examination. Just between you and the God who called you.
Be blessed and be a blessing

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