The Office of Minister

For many of us who have grown up in church or who are actively involved, going into 'full-time ministry' has always been a VERY pleasant thought. Working with like-minded people, most of whom you are probably good friends with, doing lunches, meetings, missions, etc... together, is appealing. However, after taking inventory the reasoning behind this appeal can be somewhat sobering.

We like to hang out with people who are like minded in faith and vision because it's easier. We like the thought of a non-stress work environment. After all, I'm not responsible, necessarily, for those I work with if everyone is already a believer - right?

In some ways, trading in the corporate office for an office down at the church would be much like taking a soldier off the battlefield and putting him or her into the recruiting office. You get to talk about conflict all day long, but you don't have to endure any. (No offense to recruiters - most have done their time!)

I'm not saying there isn't a place or purpose for this, but no wonder it's not God's will for everyone to work in the church office! We need soldiers doing ministry on the battlefield. We need office leaders who will pray for their company's success and for the salvation of their peers. We need people who live it and walk it - outside the church walls.

If your dream is to work for the church - don't abandon that. But meanwhile, keep hammering where you are, because you are the minister on duty. You are gate that heaven has opened for others - today - right now! Don't discount it! You hold a very important office!