IN THE TRENCHES

“For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. You are witnesses, and God also, how holy and righteous and blameless was our conduct toward you believers.”  (1 Thessalonians 2:9-10 ESV)

Meaningful ministry happens in the trenches.  The pastor is willing to roll up his sleeves and plunge into the midst of the messes his people find themselves in--to lift them and lead them out.  It is as much perspiration as inspiration.  Those who are after a life of ease, filled with perks and privileges, understand nothing of the call of God, and need to get right or get out.  Ministry as God intends it involves labor and toil.  A lazy preacher is a contradiction to his calling.

Paul describes what we call today, "bi-vocational ministry."  Though he had the right to expect the congregation to support him, he refused and chose instead to provide his own financial support.  The bi-vocational minister is not a "part-time" preacher, but has two full-time jobs.  I have done this and can testify to the exhausting responsibility.  Still, God never calls us to a task without providing the grace to accomplish it.

Whether we work in a secular field or depend on the church to meet our needs, sloth has no place in a pastor's life.  None could accuse Paul of that vice--nor of any other.  His behavior was "holy"--that is, he recognized himself as set apart for God and His purposes, and behaved accordingly.  His conduct was "righteous"--in doing the right thing in his dealings with his fellowmen.  His character was "blameless"--with no glaring moral deficiency that could be found.  It is a lofty standard, but one we must incessantly strive to attain.