I love people. I love seeing them experience a breakthrough. I love seeing them live victoriously. I love laughing with them and rejoicing with them in the blessings and milestones of life.
But I also hurt for the pain they endure. And the pain they put themselves through. And the pain they cause other people to experience. I also hurt because of the pain they have caused me and those I love.
But I can’t quit. God won’t let me. And I have a fire inside of me that simply consumes and compels me. No matter the pain, I can’t stop. Even when the joy of ministry seems like it is fleeting or fleeing, even then I still have to love people, listen to people, pray for people, and tell people the good news of Jesus.
I pray that some things will get easier. I pray that I don’t get in the way of the work God wants to do. I pray that I am not the one causing another pain, but that instead I am the cause of their joy in the Lord.
I pray that I will be faithful and that God will be honored and that many people will be eternally impacted by my pitiful efforts.
There is deep joy and sometimes ongoing pain, but ultimately I don’t pastor for any temporary joy or temporary pain-relief here on earth but for the eternal glory of God and eternal blessings for all who will call on His name.
May God help us to faithfully press on through it all. Eternal joy is coming to all who will stand firm to the end!
Pastor Encouragement 