Pastor's Daily Devotional : 2012

Scripture

In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.”

This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

                                                                      Acts 6: 1-7

Observation

In the early days of the church, it was necessary to appoint certain individuals who would be gifted at caring for the needs of people. It is true that we all play an important role in the extending of God’s plans and ministry.

As volunteers and leaders are mobilized to be involved in ministry, then pastors and teachers are freed to pray and study the Word for the purpose of teaching God’s Word and equipping believers to serve in many ways. This is a good example of how valuable every person is in fulfilling God’s work in our world and in the life of every church family. It is so crucial for pastors and leaders to release ministry to everyone in the church so that everyone grows through the fulfilling of their unique ministry. 

Application

I am reminded here that without the willingness of many servant-leaders and volunteers, God’s work could not be accomplished through His church with great effectiveness.

I am so grateful for the many leaders and volunteers that serve alongside me for the purpose of bringing many people into a relationship with Jesus. As each individual does their work, many people are blessed in many ways. I am challenged in these days to continue to help raise up leaders who will have a ministry mindset and that will help in serving the people that God is sending to us. This is also a reminder that I, as a pastor should not try to do too much on my own. I must make it a priority to be a man of prayer and to study and prepare teachings in order to properly equip believers to fulfill their unique ministries.

Prayer

Lord Jesus I thank You for the privilege of serving your people in the role of pastor and teacher. Help me to discern how I can share ministry with others and give me wisdom as I train others to serve in important ways. Fill me with your Holy Spirit and help me as I allow others to share the load of ministry responsibility in our church family. I trust You to do a great work in people’s hearts as I follow you each day.