Bible Reading: Acts 6
Acts 6:4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.
The apostles had to prioritize their responsibilities. There was much ministry to be done, but they could not do it all. They needed some faithful, Spirit-filled men to help them take care of ministering to the widows. It is interesting to me that they told the people to choose spiritual men. They would not just ‘fill slots’ with anyone they could find. They encouraged the people to look out men who were:
Acts 6:3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
All ministry is spiritual. All ministry is important. The apostles knew that they would wind up neglecting their ministry of the word and prayer if they handled the other ministry. They were wise and knew they could not do it all.
What about you? What ministry are you involved in? What has God led you to? How do you serve in your local church? Do you look around and see what needs to be done, or do you just show up and take part not really knowing how all that happens takes place? Do you expect the ministry to be done by the pastors or do you know that all of the members of Christ’s body are to minister to one another?
These are some important questions to ask. We live in a time of consumerism and many in the church are just consumers of the goods and services the church is providing. Steven was a man who was willing and able to serve. He was filled with the Holy Spirit and he took ministry seriously. Will you do the same?
In Christ,
Rody
