Image by MSO Clipart

Ministry and service is a part of the Christian life. Because of this, we must have the right motives as we serve in the Church. In this post, we want to look at three motives to avoid.

Though numerous motives exist in ministry, we will examine the wrong motives of price, people, and personal gain. These wrong motives are seen readily in many believers. We will explore a few scriptural examples of men operating in wrong motives, and the consequences. ***

1) Price. Men have been seduced for centuries by money. Many ministers today are using scriptures to justify their greed, lust, and love of money. The scriptures say that the love of money is the root of all evil.

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. (I Timothy 6:10)

Never use your gift or ministry for financial gain. If you are called to preach, it has to be done without price. We receive gifts freely from God and God expects us to minister to one another freely. He offered salvation to us without price.

2) People.The praise of men can be intoxicating to the ego. It is easy to be seduced by the admiration and adulation of men. However, performing to receive the praises of men is detrimental to any ministry. Recognizing this motive in ministry can be difficult at times. It is common for people to speak of how we have blessed them, especially if our ministry to them came at a crucial moment.

And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered themselves together at Michmash. Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the Lord: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering. (I Samuel 13:11-12)

Individuals who have ministries that are on display (singing, preaching, prophesying, playing instruments, etc.) are vulnerable in particular. The praises and thanks of people can be addictive. Saul, Israel’s first king, ruined his ministry as king because of people.

3) Personal Gain. This final wrong motive is hard to detect. Personal gain is usually interpreted as money. However, personal gain is subjective to the individual. Some people use ministry as therapy for their own physical and emotional needs. There are individuals who have low self-esteem, never had many friends, never received love, and the like. Ministry to them becomes a form of establishing self-worth and identity for them. The Pharisees are examples of this type of motive in ministry.

And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. (Matthew 23:7)

The Pharisees are examples of this type of motive in ministry. They loved to make themselves seem spiritual and important so that men would look up to them and respect them. They used religious service to establish their identities and self-worth. You have to be honest and recognize if you are vulnerable in this area. It can prove to be deadly to your ministry. Self-examination is the key to maintaining pure motives in ministry. If you learn to judge your own motives through the Word of God and by the Spirit, the flesh will not overtake you in this area.

Well, there you have it. Continue in the Faith, for Christ is faithful. If you would like more information concerning ministry, I have addressed it in my book, “Motives in Ministry: Defining the Proper Motives for Ministry and Service” which can be found at Amazon.com.

1.Passion – We have determined that sin may not always determine a negative response. However, if we ask only to satisfy our carnal and selfish passions (lusts or desires), God will reject our requests. (James 4:2-3)

It is true that God will grant us the desires of our heart. Yet, some requests that we make are only to satisfy the flesh. Therefore, God may say “No” to certain requests because they are to make our lives convenient, rather than being a necessity.

2. Proper Time – Another reason for God saying “No” is timing. You may have the right request, but the wrong timing. In this instance, God’s No is only for the moment. Yet, it becomes difficult to accept this when the situations are dire.

When bills are due, appointments are set, and illnesses worsen, we feel that God should do something immediately. Since God sits outside of time, He knows all things and the outcome. He knows how to deliver and answer in a timely manner(Galatians 4:4). However, the  time of the answer or deliverance is determined of the Father. God will give certain requests when it is “time.”  Until then, we have to accept God’s “No”.

3. Purpose – God is a God of purpose. If God says “No”to us because of it, we must discover what purpose is and why is it important.

Purpose: Something set up as an object or end to be attained. Something that is proposed. An Intent or will. In terms of the Lord, purpose is the predestined plan and will of God.

As we consider some truths concerning purpose, we will understand why God says “No” to us at times. We have to remember that Purpose comes with Permanence. When our requests will take us off the path of our purpose in God, He will deny our request. We must understand that God’s purpose for our lives is more than the fulfilling of an assignment. Therefore, if our request will affect His predestined plan for our lives and ministries, He will say “No.”

Also, Purpose Demands Patience. Because of purpose, God is patient with us. Even when we are disobedient to Him, He knows what we will become in Him (2 Timothy 1:9). Purpose causes God to be patient with us. Moreover, purpose demands patience from us. We have to be patient with the Lord as His plan for our lives unfolds. (Hebrews 6:12)

In addition, Purpose comes with Promise. If we submit to God’s purpose, which includes His “No,” we have the promise of success in Him (Romans 8:28). It is impossible for God to lie (Hebrews 6:18). If we pursue God’s purpose for our lives, it comes with the promise of His presence, power, and peace. However, in order for us to fulfill purpose, God will say “No” to us. Jesus had to endure God’s “No,” when He wanted to be delivered from the crucifixion. Jesus endured it because of the promise of His Father (Hebrews 12:2). Jesus knew His acceptance of God’s “No” resulted in the fulfillment of purpose. This was His joy because men would be saved. We should remember His example.

There you have it! Three reasons why God may say “No” to certain requests. We can stand in faith in prayer trusting that God does hear us. However, if His response is “No,” it is only to bless us and prosper us.

Until next time, remain faithful to Him who has called you, who will bring all things to pass. I have addressed this topic in detail in my book, “When God Says “No” – Understanding the Fatherhood of God, which can be found at Amazon.com.

Every Christian male should ask himself this question: What makes me a man? More importantly, what makes me a godly man? If a man does not know who he is, he will not be all he can be in Christ Jesus. The Christian male has to understand that he can only define himself based upon biblical standards. This is because culture and Christianity have varying viewpoints about what makes  one a “man.” The Christian male, then, has to learn to define his manhood in terms of his relationship with Christ (righteousness and character), rather than by the culture (which focuses mostly on external traits -strength, money, stature, family, etc). Before going further the Christian male should understand:

*A man’s definition is not based upon external characteristics, but internal traits.*

*The Definition of a man is found in the image of God.*

*Culture cannot define a man.*

With this understanding, we want to offer seven primary qualities or traits of the Christian man.

1. He reflects Christ’s image. As Adam was made in God’s image, the Christian man has to be made in Christ’s image. He will reflect the characteristics of Christ. (Romans 8:29)

2. He is a man full of wisdom and integrity. The Christian man will not be a fool. He will not lack spiritual wisdom and insight. He will be full of faith. (Acts 6:3a)

3. His is an example of the believers in this world. The Christian man will set an example that others can follow. He will represent the Christian faith well to the world. (I Timothy 4:12b)

4. He leads his home in the worship of God. One of the qualifications for a bishop was to have his home in order. This same quality will be in the true Christian man. (I Timothy 3:4)

5. He follows the example that Christ set. Paul exhorted the Corinthians to follow his example as he followed Christ. This will be the same desire of the Christian man. He will only want others to emulate him as he follows Christ. (I Corinthians 11:1)

6. He is man of prayer. In the Old Testament, men offered the most powerful prayers. Contrary to popular belief, women are not more effective in prayer than men. Prayer is not woman’s work. Men have a responsibility to weep and mourn and intercede for others also. (Ephesians 6:18)

7. He is a student of the Word of God. The Christian man will have a desire to know God’s word. He will not shun corporate and personal study of the Word. He will also understand the foundational beliefs of the Christian faith. (II Timothy 2:15)

Well, there you have it! Until next time, stand in the faith. Faithful is Christ who will be with us in the life and in the one that is to come. I have addressed this topic in detail in my book “What is Man? – Defining the Christian Male” which can found at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.com.

How am I to praise God at all times? Am I to walk around singing and dancing all day? Am I to carry an instrument at all times to praise Him? Do I always have to be talking about something He’s done to show His praises? How is the Christian to live in continual praises?

I. Praise God in our Conversations (Psalm 34:1) – God’s praise can continually be in our mouths by the conversations that we have. Though every word does not have to be a declaration of praise, but our words should not distract others from God’s goodness and works. The Christians’ words are to be seasoned with God’s grace and wisdom, which is the same as offering praise unto the Lord (Ephesians 4:29)

II. Praise God in our Appearance (I Timothy 2:9-10) – Paul gave Timothy instructions for how the women were to dress. Their outer appearance was to match their testimony in Jesus Christ. Though Paul specifically addressed the women, we know that Christian men are to be modest in their outer appearance. This helps to adorn the gospel of Christ. When we possess a fitting outer image and good works, the gospel message is enhanced. We stated earlier that there are non-verbal ways to praise the Lord. Our outer appearance is also a non-verbal way that we offer praise unto God for His salvation and goodness towards us.

III. Praise God in Fellowship (Psalm 34:3) – David made an appeal that praise be done corporately. We demonstrate praise and honor to God when we have fruitful fellowship with other Christians (in and outside of the religious setting). Today, some claim to know God and have no fellowship with others. However, if our praise is to be perfected and acceptable, we have to have fellowship and communion with others. Our interaction is not limited to other Christians. We are to have fruitful interactions with unbelievers, which gives praise unto God. Remember Peter’s words.

It is through our godly conversation and appearance that we show forth the work of salvation in our lives to unbelievers. This is how we show forth His praises. It is through our personal witness of the work of Christ in our lives (I Peter 2:9). We are to say the right things, present ourselves the right way, and have fellowship with others in response to God’s works in our lives. Our lives should be lived in praise to Him for all He has done.

Well, there you have it. Until next time, remain faithful to Him who has called you, who will bring all things to pass. I have addressed this topic in detail in my book, “The Call to Worship” – Understanding the True Essence of Worship, which can be found at Amazon.com.

The most common way that God speaks to the Christian is the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. God will speak to our minds and hearts through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will speak to us what God is saying. Jesus said that this is a sign of His coming.

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (John 16:13)

Other common ways for God to speak to us is through dreams and visions. These are usually grouped together because each of these communicate God’s words through images. There are believers that consistently have dreams and visions.

And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see VISIONS, and your old men shall DREAM dreams. (Joel 2:28 Emphasis mine)

Under the New Covenant, it is common for God to speak to believers in dreams and visions. Scripture shows us that God used dreams and visions to communicate with His people. Visions can be internal (in our spirits) and open (in clear view).

One of the best ways to hear from God is during  prayer. Believers are instructed to be consistent in prayer. However, there are believers who receive things by the Spirit during prayer. Prayer is common because  attention and focus is placed solely on the Lord. In the scriptures, Daniel serves as an excellent example of God speaking in prayer. He and the three Hebrew boys (men) prayed that Daniel would receive Nebuchadnezzar’s dream.

Then Daniel went in, and desired of the king that he would give him time, and that he would shew the king the interpretation. Then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions: That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret; that Daniel and his fellows should not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. (Daniel 2:16-18)

Angels are sent by God to aid the believer. Both Testaments agree to the fact that God used angels to speak to His people. God used Gabriel in the New Testament to reveal to Mary of her purpose. While he communicated with her, he revealed prophetic information concerning her cousin.

And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. (Luke 1:36)

Some believe this occurrence is rare, but God is the one who chooses how to deliver His word to His people for ministry.

The safest way that God speaks to us is through the Scriptures. Inspiration that contain scriptures prove to be rich and powerful. The word of God is a more sure word of prophecy. It will not change or alter.

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the daystar arise in your hearts.(2 Peter 1:19)

God will bring to mind passages of scripture to provide edification and insight for Christians. There are times when scriptures will come to mind for Christians to share with others also.

Well there you have it. Until next time, remain faith to Christ who is above all. If you would like more information concerning how God speaks, I have addressed it in detail in my book, “Prophetic Ministry, Misery, and Mishaps – Rediscovering the Purpose of the Prophetic Gift” at Amazon.com.

1. Partakers of the Divine Nature. God places men in ministry and service to help others become partakers of the divine nature. He uses men and women to aid others in the quest to be like Christ. As we receive ministry from others, we become conformed to the image of Christ.

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 2 Peter 1:4 (KJV)

2. Participate in Salvation. God uses men in service so that mankind would participate in his own salvation. God used men from the beginning to bring men into the knowledge of God. This truth culminate in Christ coming as a man to redeem mankind.

Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. Romans 5:18 (KJV)

3. Perfecting of the Saints. Paul revealed to the Ephesian church that Christ gave gifts to men (specifically those called to the ministry of the Word) to perfect or mature other Christians. God places men and women into ministry to mature, equip, protect and ground others in the truth of salvation in Christ Jesus.

For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. Eph 4:12 (KJV)

4. Prepare for Christ’s Return. God places men and women into ministry and service so that all will be prepared for Christ at His return. As men and women serve, they help members of the Body of Christ be aware and to prepare for that Day. In addition, as the Church declares the name of Christ to the world, it warns them of His coming and their need for the free gift of salvation offered by God.

God places men and women in His service to accomplish His purpose. We must keep these in mind as we serve in the Church. Until next time, continue in Him who will never leave you nor forsake you. If you would like more information of the subject, I have addressed it in detail in my book, “He Gave Gifts Unto Men: God’s Plan for Ministry in the Kingdom” at Amazon.

Distraction is a chief enemy of the Christian. If we are not careful, we will allow distractions to deter us from the object of our salvation, which is Jesus Christ. How do you know if something is a distraction? A distraction is anything or anyone that becomes the motivation for your life. With that said, we discover three common distractions among Christians:

Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith? Hebrews 12:1b-2a (KJV)

1. SIN – When you have an “issue” (as we like to call sin at times), you will live to satisfy it rather than the Lord. Sin brings your focus on yourself and your fleshly desires rather than the perfect law of liberty which is in Jesus. Don’t allow personal sins and desires to distract you from Christ. If you keep your eyes on Him, He will lead you into victory over any sin that frustrates you. In addition, do not allow the sins of others to become a distraction. If we are not careful, we will become “sin-patrol” and “righteousness-enforcers” rather than presenters of His truth, which includes rebuke, which has the power to set free.

2. SELF- Many believers are so preoccupied with themselves that they are distractions to themselves. If you are always worried about appearance, who likes and dislikes you, when will I get promoted, why they treated me in an unfavorable manner, and the like, you are distracted. Remember, the pride of life is an enemy to the love of God. We say it, but do we mean it: “It is not about us, it is about Jesus!” Don’t allow the enemy to distract you from Christ through subtlety. God will bless us and provide for us, but that is not to be our only use for the Word and Prayer. You will be distracted from the true power of God which results in a transformed, selfless life.

3. SERVICE - One of the biggest and deceptive distractions is our service and ministry in Christ. God calls and anoints us for His service. However, we are not to be like Martha who was too busy trying to serve Christ rather than sit at His feet to learn and commune with Him. Many believers are distracted by prophecies of future ministries not understanding that they will come to pass if you stay focused on Him. Do not allow ministry to be about you and who you are. All ministry is to point back to Christ and not the minister. Do not work for Him and then be lost in the end because you did not go on to know Him. Serve Him faithfully, but do not confuse ministry with relationship.

We have to endeavor to make sure that everything points to Him. All things are by Him. If we overcome, it is because He overcame. If we are prosperous, it is because He prospered in what the Father sent Him to do. Thus, we have to remain focused on Him, His life, and His legacy for success.

If you keep your eyes on Him, no sin, trial, or test will be able to stop you. Remember, if He overcame the world, you will overcome all things through faith in Him. Things may be exactly how you see it, but take your eyes off the situations and KEEP YOUR EYES ON JESUS!

1) Endurance is a prerequisite to eternal salvation. Jesus stated that the one, who endures to the end, shall be saved. He did not say the one who did more or knew more.

But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Matt 24:13 (KJV)

2) Endurance brings stability during uncertain times. Endurance helps one to maintain their pursuits in this life in the midst of adversities. Jesus was able to endure the pain and shame of the cross because joy was set before Him. He knew His suffering would result in man’s salvation.

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Heb 12:2 (KJV)

3) Endurance guards against the desire to quit. Endurance has the motto that “Quitting is not an Option,” which stifles the desire to give up and quit. The desire to quit has to be tempered with the knowledge that Christ will not leave those who trust Him by themselves.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Phil 4:13 (KJV)

4) Endurance helps to revive faith. Endurance gives the user a since of faith. Endurance causes an individual to remember the Word of God and His personal promises.

For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.  1 John 5:4 (KJV)

5) Endurance brings the believer closer to perfection in Christ. Endurance is needed to survive the sufferings that come along with our relationship with Christ. Endurance causes an individual to look past hurts, disappointments, and ungodly desires.

Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. 1 Peter 4:1-2 (KJV)

6) Endurance is a guarantee of success in spiritual warfare. Endurance causes believers to outlast every attack of the enemy.

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Eph 6:11 (KJV)

Yes. Life does bring problems, both great and small. Sometimes, hardships and trials can last for years and it seems as if there will be no end. However, remember the Art of Endurance. It will be worth it in the end. Remember, our walk with Christ has promise in this life and in the life that is to come.

Well, there you have it! Until next time, continue in the faith. For more information on this subject, I have addressed this and other subjects in my book, “The Fine Arts of Christian Living: Biblical Insights to a Successful Christian Life” which can be found at Amazon.com.

1) The Holy Spirit Changes our Self-Perception – His presence in us causes changes to how we view ourselves. As a Christian embraces his new life in Christ, his actions will be a reflection of the faith.

2) The Holy Spirit Changes our Minds – The Holy Spirit helps the believer to make the right decisions. When the Christian is faced with sin, the Holy Spirit will remind the Christian of Christ’s words and standards. He convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. This work continues as we walk with Christ.

3) The Holy Spirit Changes our Weaknesses – If we yield to the Spirit, we will not fulfill the desires of the flesh. As we yield to Him, our weaknesses change into strengths. When we walk in the Spirit, the flesh will not cause us to stumble.

4) The Holy Spirit Changes our Outlook – The world is governed by excess and evil. Individuals are motivated by greed, desire, and selfish impulses. The Holy Spirit will change the Christian’s outlook; that is, motivation for living. His presence changes the Christian’s approach also.

5) The Holy Spirit Changes our Manner of Living – His presence in us helps us to live as Christ lived. The Christian will desire to live to bring glory to Christ that has saved him.

So there we have it. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, we can change. Stand on the dogma of change. We can be saved and transformed into the image of Christ and live a life that is pleasing to God.

Until next time, continue to strive for the crown of life that is promised to every Christian. If you would like more inspirational material, I have presented more resources in my book entitled “Is there a Word from the Lord? (Book II),” which can be found at Kingdom Builders Publishing and Amazon.

1. Restoration is Available

First, if we have lost our strength due to some weight or sin, there is restoration. God strengthened Samson, and He will do the same for the believer today. Many doubt God’s willingness to forgive and restore. God sent Christ into the world to give men the opportunity to come to Him. This continues even after one receives Christ. The believer, who will cry out to God, even after failure, can expect God’s full restoration. God will cleanse the believer and ensure their proper relationship and connection with Him.

2. Failure is not Final

Second, God can turn our failure to victory. Samson killed more in his death than life. God transformed Samson’s failure into victory over the enemies of Israel. Samson’s end resulted in a great victory for the people of the Lord. God is able to bring good things out of bad situations. When there is purpose, God will have a plan in place to perform it. A Christian’s failure is not final. God knows how to enable the believer to redeem the time. If we learn from our mistakes, it can turn into ministry to others for their success in Christ.

3. God Remove Shames

Third, God will not allow us to live with the shame of our failure. Some think that Samson’s death was not a good end for him. But He was blind and if he live, he would have to depend on others. Therefore, it is our belief that God had compassion on him, not allowing him to live the rest of his life as a blind man. Not only will God forgive us, but also ensure that we will not have to live in shame because of our doings. He is longsuffering and full of mercy. He will be compassionate to those who recognize and turn from their wrong doings.

God is ready, willing, and able to restore. Christ came to give us life. He is not willing that any should perish. Trust that you can move forward even after setbacks.

Well, there you have it. Until next time. Continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord. If you would like more information on Samson’s life and the Christian experience, I have addressed it in detail in my book, Samson, the Nazarite: God’s Strong Man at Amazon.com.