Ministry is messy! I have messed up more than I have succeeded.
I’ve had Freudian slips behind the pulpit.
I’ve given terrible advice at times.
I’ve fallen flat on my face.
I’ve lost my cool.
I’ve even wanted to give it all up!
Perhaps if judged just solely on that track record, I should’ve given up and walked away from ministry.
You might be asking why I haven’t? Well let me tell you!
When I say the wrong things, the Holy Spirit takes a moment to teach me the right things.
When I give terrible advice, the Holy Spirit shows me that he is the perfect counselor.
When I fall flat on my face, the Holy Spirit is gracious enough to pick me up.
When I lose my cool, the Holy Spirit convicts me and I am able to take corrective measures.
When I wanted to give up, the Holy Spirit told me to look back and notice that although I am not where I want to be, I am not where I used to be.
Even though ministry is messy, I do not want to change a thing. I have learned that God is not interested in me being perfect, he is interested in me being willing. As long as I am willing to submit to his will for my life, he will continue to guide my steps.
Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delights in his way.
Jonathan is the author and founder of ConsiderUp.com. He is a husband, a father, and a pastor. He loves Jesus, his family, writing, and playing golf.
Jonathan is proud to serve alongside his wife Sileni as associate pastors at Bethesda Church in Clermont, Florida. For over 13 years he has been heavily involved in ministry and church leadership preaching a message of grace and restoration.
