My son, do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life and peace they will add to you. Let not mercy and truth forsake you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart, and so find favor and high esteem In the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones. Proverbs 3:1-8
As we minister to children every week as part of The Disciple Ship (TDS) it is easy to burn out or begin seeing it as a chore. This is true in every area of ministry, but you tend to see this most in children's ministry. With that understanding we need to make sure that we do a couple things.
1) Remain in the word of God (1-4): Our strength is not derived from another pot of coffee or three cans of Red Bull and an Egg McMuffin. Our strength should come from the Lord, otherwise we will whither and die (see Psalm 1). Here in Proverbs we are called to keep His commandments. How can we keep them if we do not know them? Not only that, but the obedience to His word should be an adornment upon our necks for all to see. When we minister to children with the truths of God displayed in us we are MUCH more effective for the Lord.
2) Trust in the Lord (5-8): We do not always know what will happen next, but we can trust that the Lord does (Romans 11:36). This said, we must trust in Him and not ourselves. Our plans may seem nice, but He sees everything and knows everything and because of that His plans are bigger than ours. That child that is causing a problem may be the tool God is using to grow us in patience or loving kindness. That person who called out sick may open the door for someone else to be blessed while teaching or connect with a child and change a life. When we trust Him and acknowledge Him HE will direct our path (and it is most likely going to be different than originally planned).
Finally, both these instructions come with promises:
- Long life & peace (2)
- Favor with God & man (4)
- Direction (6)
- Health & Strength (8)
These are not simply good thoughts, these are the words of our Heavenly Father, and they can be trusted. Meditate on them and think of them as you serve God aboard TDS. May we all remain in His word, seek His will, & trust in His promises.
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