“As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” (2 Timothy 4:5, ESV)
I am often guilty of complaining about my work situation. My job isn’t easy. The hours are not great. The corporation is all about making money, not about virtue, kindness and love. I also have to work with people. They can be difficult and most are very worldly. I don’t work with very many Christians. So I get discouraged and complain.
The other day I was strongly convicted about my attitude. One of my co-workers came to me and said that he was thankful that I was working with him. He told me that he was glad to have another believer working there. My first reaction was, “I know, we need to stick together. It’s hard here with so many ungodly attitudes.”
His response hit me like a ton of bricks. “I know. Most of the people here don’t know Jesus. That’s why I’m glad you are here to help encourage them and share the good news with them.”
Wow, those words were powerful! They smacked me upside the head and some sense was knocked into me! I’m on mission. I am not stuck here. I am placed here. This is a foreign land and I have been sent to share Jesus. My store uniform is the clothing of the indigenous people. They speak their own language using terminology and phrases unique to that people group. They live in their own culture, a world centered on money and performance. I have been placed among the heathens to share the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Just like any other missionary, I will suffer. I have to give up time with my family to be on the mission field. I have to trust God for provision and support like any missionary. It is necessary for me to filled with the Spirit and His power daily. I will have to learn about the culture and interact with the people for a time before they are receptive to my way of life.
I need to hold fast to these words from Peter. “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,” (1 Peter 3:14–15, ESV)
Therefore it is necessary that I take up my cross daily and head into my mission field. The Lord will lead the way. I pray that many will be saved through the ministry of the few missionaries that I am privileged to serve with. It won’t be easy. Please pray for us as we brave the greed filled, results driven foreign culture to bring the Good News of Jesus.