For Ministers only: What do I do in these perilous times?

Thoughts to Reconcile...

"...preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction."  2 Timothy 4:2

1. Preach the Word

Do you find that the culture effects your every thought and slants your Bible studies?  I find that listening to sermons from different eras help me see my bias.  We must strive for the purity of Truth.

2. Be ready in season and out of season

Regardless of how you feel, always be ready to minister.  Today "Ready" means able to minister in person, on Zoom, through chats and even Twitter.  Be Ready!

3. Reprove

This may be the first step to take before "Rebuke".  To remove or censure is at times appropriate.  When?  From your pulpit, your ministry circle or your social group.  It feels u- American; but yes, it is sometimes appropriate to remove people from your platform. 

4. Rebuke

I avoid this until I cannot.  I prefer to be the peacemaker but some people will not allow it.  I only do this if I am convinced it will bring me the desired results.  Otherwise, I shake the dust off my feet and keep walking.  

 
5. Exhort

The fun part of all this.  To empower people in ministry is very rewarding.  For me this includes mentoring and truly coming along side someone.  Not to be confused with just telling people what to do. Today, if "The Church has left the building" are they doing ministry or did they just leave?  Are they connecting with a group that is building them up and preparing them or are the autonomous?  Let's partner and Exhort!

6. Be Patient

*See article on The Power of Patience. Not fun, but absolutely crucial to any military strategy.  Do not be a novice when it comes to the strategy of Patience.  Nothing good comes from being reactive or being irrational.

 
7. Instruct

Do you have something worth saying?  Can you present it in a manner worth listening too?  You should always be sharpening your preaching, teaching and presentation skills.  Everyone is overwhelmed with social media devotions.  What makes you stop and give your time?