A Note to Ministers and Those Desiring to Be Used in Ministry (Part 2)

Authenticity, Identity, and Foundations in Ministry

Authenticity comes when we are real. Our private lives should be the same as our public lives. Then, there will be no need to act super spiritual in front of others. Fake things may look good and original, but only for a limited time. Fake products will not last long because the raw materials used to produce them are cheap.

I have come across many fake automobile parts. Sometimes, even the part numbers, logos, and everything else seem identical, but there will be loopholes that help us identify whether they are genuine. Even if they succeed in making the product look perfect, its quality will eventually prove its authenticity. After a certain period, fake products will fail, but original products are built for long-term use. In the same way, even if we hide behind a mask, our true selves will eventually be exposed. God wants us to be real.

Foundations are important for longevity.

Don't compare yourself or your ministry with others. God has created everyone uniquely. Even our fingerprints and eyes are different. So, don't try to become someone else. Other ministers' ministries, mantles, and levels of influence may differ from ours.

God has not called us to follow trends but to fulfil His purpose for our lives and ministries.

God's name is glorified when we live and minister according to His original design for us. The Apostle Peter was called to minister to the Jews, while Paul was called to minister to the Gentiles. We will be effective in the Kingdom when we understand our identity, our purpose, and our unique calling.

Our identity in Christ and our character are great foundations for life and ministry. When we know our true identity in Christ, we can be authentic in who we are.

As His ministers, we must remember that God is deeply mindful of us. When we are in leadership positions, there will be people who speak against us out of hatred, jealousy, misunderstanding, or other reasons. Some may do so repeatedly. God takes these matters seriously, and at times, He may reveal hidden conversations to us so that we can remain alert and exercise discernment. Sometimes, we may also come to know about these conversations through others. However, the greatest test is not what others say about us, but how we respond to it. It tests our hearts.

We must not allow ourselves to become offended or bitter or to hold grudges against those who speak against us. Instead, we must bring these matters before God in prayer, make corrections where necessary, guard our hearts, and allow Him to deal with the situation in His own way and time.

We cannot afford to let the words of others affect us and shape our lives more than the Word of God.

When we respond with the right heart, God can use even opposition to shape our character and bring us into greater maturity. As leaders, we must learn to handle opposition with grace, wisdom, and spiritual maturity.

A guarded heart, a prayerful spirit, and a forgiving attitude will help us grow into the leaders God has called us to be.