One of the first bits of advice I got when I reported to my first squadron as a young second lieutenant was “Bloom where you’re planted.” At first, I didn’t know what this meant. I clearly must have a had a glazed look in my eyes, so this respectable and experienced NCO began to enlighten this new, naïve, and inexperienced “butter bar.” It’s a good lesson in leadership, and that is to take whatever task you are given, no matter how trivial or menial it may seem, and give it your very best effort. If it means keeping the squadron snack bar stocked up, make it the best snack bar in the wing. I was a new Christian in the spring of 1989 and was still getting used to the idea of how my testimony was as much in my actions as it was in my words. When I stopped caring about whether or not I got recognized, I found I worried less about accolade and cared more about results.
As Paul is writing to the church in Galatia, he is warning them about being faithful “producers.” The right motivation yields the best results. Doing things for selfish gain can happen in ministry, just as in any other line of work. Many ministries have fallen because the main motivation was not for God’s glory, but for personal (most often financial) gain. And as warned, “God cannot be mocked.” While we are not all called to be in vocational ministry, we are all called to be ministers. That ministry can come in many forms. From making phone calls and writing letters, to leading a ministry such as men’s, women’s, or sports; all have importance. And when sowing to please the spirit, the Spirit will in-turn reap eternal life. Every believer brings something when it comes to propagating the Gospel. God has empowered every follower of Christ with at least one spiritual gift. That gift is to be used for his glory. “Let us not grow weary in doing good.” Take what God has given you, and bloom where you are planted.
As Paul is writing to the church in Galatia, he is warning them about being faithful “producers.” The right motivation yields the best results. Doing things for selfish gain can happen in ministry, just as in any other line of work. Many ministries have fallen because the main motivation was not for God’s glory, but for personal (most often financial) gain. And as warned, “God cannot be mocked.” While we are not all called to be in vocational ministry, we are all called to be ministers. That ministry can come in many forms. From making phone calls and writing letters, to leading a ministry such as men’s, women’s, or sports; all have importance. And when sowing to please the spirit, the Spirit will in-turn reap eternal life. Every believer brings something when it comes to propagating the Gospel. God has empowered every follower of Christ with at least one spiritual gift. That gift is to be used for his glory. “Let us not grow weary in doing good.” Take what God has given you, and bloom where you are planted.