THE PREACHER’S ATTITUDE TOWARD POSSESSIONS, PROBLEMS, AND PRAYERS

This morning, I wrote a devotional on James 5.  It is directed to everyone, but I saw a poignant application for pastors.

First, consider  THE PREACHER’S ATTITUDE ABOUT STUFF (v.1-6). This deals with the matter of our possessions. Riches may dazzle the eye with the glitter of gold and glamor of garments, but faith enables us to see beyond these to eternity and realize that is the only place of real riches. Taking advantage of others for personal profit is but fattening ourselves for the day of slaughter. Greed will destroy a ministry!  While the pastor must supply the need of family, lest he be worse than an infidel (cf. 1 Tim.5:8), he must not be driven by the greed of luxury. Whatever we possess—little or much—we cannot let it possess us!

Further, note THE PREACHER’S ASSESSMENT OF SUFFERING (v.7-12).  This deals with the matter of our problems.  The preacher must be patient and persevere. We do not grumble about others who may not be experiencing the pain we know. Rather, we surrender to the will of God. I think of Peter, when told how he would suffer for Christ, pointed to John and said, “Lord, what about this man?”  Jesus rebuked him, “what is that to you?  You follow me!” (cf. John 21:21-22). Instead of looking at other preachers who appear successful, look into the Word and see examples of others who suffered—like the prophets and Job, who nevertheless remained steadfast. Remember God is compassionate and merciful. Never doubt it!  The final chapter of the story will be glory!  As the old saying goes, “All’s well that ends well!”

Finally, observe THE PREACHER’S APPRECIATION OF SUPPLICATION (v.13-20).  This deals with the matter of our prayers.  Rather than complain, carry your burdens to the Lord.  Prayer enables us to strongly stand publicly when we weakly kneel privately. Being cast down, lift up your prayer to God. Raise your voice in song to God and this will raise you up. Call upon others—especially fellow elders—to pray for you and with you. That prayer of faith will heal. It may deliver us from suffering now, but will assuredly deliver our souls from bitterness.  Sometimes, the suffering is the scourge of God for our sin. It is His loving chastisement to correct us. The prayer of confession then restores us. Elijah was a man of powerful prayer, but still a man. Preacher, you have no excuse for not accessing God’s power. Prayer equips us to reach the straying sheep and bring them back into the fold. What a day of rejoicing when the prayer is answered and the prodigal comes home!