His master answered, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave! You have been faithful in a few things. I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master.’ (Matthew 25:21)
Dani and I had global airline tickets that allowed us to serve whenever and wherever God directed. For one price, we could fly to any itinerary of countries. We began in the fast lanes of China and India, preaching and ministering nearly every day for months. Then we moved into the horse-drawn pace of Eastern Europe.
At first the reprieve was welcome, but I grew restless and prayed, “Lord, show us more ministry opportunities. Where would you have us go next?”
The answer was not what I expected.
“I want you to work on you.”
I spend too many calories seeking God’s direction for my life when the answer lies under my nose, literally. Rather than a ministry of deliverance and miracles, he wants me to reform my own heart. It’s not that I’m more important than those I serve, but I need to work on the plank in my eye before I can see clearly to help others.
Old fashioned stinky pride is at the root of my problem. I choose the glorious easy service of preaching to others, and resist the difficult work of amending my character.
So there I was with time on my hands, time to quit playing around with public revivals and get down to the business of examining the little nasties inside myself. Selfish Schmuck and Jealous Jerk are residents that have yet to convert. That’s where I must preach first, faithful in the small mission field of my own heart.
Prayer: Lord God, don’t give up your work in me.