FOCUS ON THE RELATIONSHIP

We're used to be confused about the difference between a ministry and a job. Some people might say, "I think it is not that difficult to differ them. It's very simple, anyway. When you work you get a salary, but in a ministry, you'll not get it." Well, this answer is one of the common replies, some people do differ them in the matter of salary. But the fact is, some churches also "pay" those (full timer and part timer) who work for the church, even though they're not pastors. Besides that, according to Luke 10:7 a worker has a right to receive his wages. It means that salary or wage for church ministers isn't a wrong thing. But still, the question had been in my head for years. "What is the difference, then?"

One day, my mentor answered it for me. He told me that a worker (an employee) works for experience, but a minister ministers only to please God. What is the meaning of his sentence?

A worker will focus on his job, do the best for his company. A great achievement will be appreciated through bonus, and greater achievement will be appreciated through bigger bonus. His experiences are how to adjust himself with the company, and how to show great performances in the "company". Once he gets his experience, he will resign and make his own or join another "company".

But, a minister will no longer focus on experience. He can be a leader for other ministers, he can occupy important position in the ministry, he can perform his excellence before thousands of people, but his main purpose is only to please God. When he doesn't get all conditions I've been mentioned, he'll stay humble and keep ministering.

It doesn't matter whether we are the workers or ministers of a church. As long as we still focus to serve God, even if we have no fans at church, even if we do not minister millions of people, even if we don't have a gift of healing, even if we are unskilled ministers, we're still His workers and ministers. Our mind no longer focuses on experiences (leading, massive ministry, miraculous deeds), but on our relationship with God. Remember this! Focus on the relationship.

Dear, God, thank you for choosing me as your worker and minister. Show me things that will please Your heart. I live only for You. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

My sons, do not be negligent now, for the LORD has chosen you to stand before him and serve him, to minister before him and to burn incense.

2 Cor. 29:11