Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.
2 Timothy 4:5 NLT
The sacred call of ministry is not taken lightly for those of us in the Oregon Ministry Network. Although the last two years have stretched and at times drained us, we are fully committed to making a difference in people’s lives.
Many years ago, the renowned writer and pastor, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones wrote in this book, Preaching and Preachers, these arresting words, "The work of preaching is the highest and greatest and more glorious calling with which anyone can ever be called." Knowing this, motivates the minister to make the effort to be efficient and effective in leading and love people.
The Apostle Paul admonished Pastor Timothy to, “Work at telling others the Good News…”
Here are 5 Ways to Strengthen Your Influence
- Reset Your Personal Devotions = Know Your God
Paul said, "I want to know Christ and be found in him…" (Philippians 3:8-9). Continue to nurture your relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. What is one action you can implement this month?
- Reset Your Relational Investments = Know Your Ministry Team
"For we are God's fellow workers…" (I Corinthians 3:9). Continue to invest in building, loving, and enriching relationships with those who serve with you. Don't attempt to go it alone in any ministry. Avoid isolationism by enlisting others to go with you. Nurture enriching and loving relationships with those in the Network. We must not only be models but mentors. What is one action you can implement this month?
- Reset Your Missional Attention = Know Your Mission-Vision
"We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor…" (Colossians 1:28-29). Where are you going and what are you trying to accomplish this year? Do people know your focus? Remember what God has called you to do. What is one action you can implement this month?
- Reset Your Structural Organization = Know Your Ministry Plan
"Now the body is not made up one part but of many…Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." (1 Corinthians 12:12, 27). Refuse to become static or stuck in your ministry. Determine how to recover from the last 24 months. Look for ways to increase in your influence and impact this year. You might be on the right track, but if you are just sitting, you'll get run over. What is one action you can implement this month?
- Reset Your Cultural Awareness = Know your Audience
"Men of Issachar, who understood the times and knew what Israel should do…" (I Chronicles 12:32). Speak in a way that those you are trying to reach understand. Stay current without compromising biblical commands or values. People will listen if they understand what you are saying. What is one action you can implement this month?
Jesus said, "…let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." This is a year to let your light shine brighter.
And say to Archippus, "Be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you."
Colossians 4:17 NLT
