Day 2: Everybody a Minister
Daily reminding ourselves that we have been ‘set apart’ is something that can have a huge impact in how we see ourselves. But there’s still a bit of a mindset in our culture that pastors, bishops, priests, or others are the only ones who have been set apart. It is they who have been called to minister to others.
But the Scriptures paint a different picture. In the years after Jesus’ death and resurrection, one of his disciples, Peter, wrote a letter to many Christians who were experiencing persecution under the Roman Emperor. In his letter, Peter wrote, “…for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.”
Peter didn’t write this to remove himself from the responsibility he had as the leader of all of the churches in his day. Instead, he wrote it as an encouragement to the people. He wrote it to remind them that they had been set apart. He wrote it to let them know they could see themselves as Priests. He wrote it so they could understand a powerful truth: they had the strength, wisdom, and courage to minister to others in the same way Peter could. As you read today, consider this: In what ways is God inviting you to minister to others?
READING:
Do you ever find yourself looking for ways to minister to others?
Of all of the current priorities in your life (family, work, sports, etc.), how high is your priority to love, serve, and minister to others?
In what ways may God be inviting you to minister to others? (Are there any commitments in your life you can lessen so that you have more opportunities to serve and minister to others?)
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
Read: Genesis 50 – Exodus 1
Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today? HEAR Bible Study Method
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I confess that there are times when I do not look for ways to minister to others. There are times when I’m not intentional about encouraging others and loving them in the same ways You love me. But I rejoice in knowing that despite some of these past mistakes, You’re still constantly inviting me to minister to others. Reveal to me some commitments I can give up so I may better fulfill Your will. And today, provide me an opportunity to minister to somebody in an unexpected way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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