Battling in the trenches for others, that's ministry.
I think far too often do people think ministry is all rainbows and salvations, and that is a huge part of it. But in reality, there is a lot of fighting tooth and nail involved in any ministerial position. A huge portion of this battling is on one's own behalf, but let me tell you, another incredibly large portion is fought on the behalf of others. Often I find myself waging war from the trenches of scripture and prayer on the behalf of someone who is either not fighting for themselves, or who is but has called in reinforcements.
This is nothing new. It isn't some sort of revelation. I have known it for quite a while. My friend and mentor Bobby has been exceptional as a role model in this area; I have seen him in battle for so so so many people over our years of friendship, and from him have learned the importance of praying on behalf of struggling brothers, sisters, friends, enemies, and lost people. I have seen this for years. But Recently I went to battle for a friend. I spent intense time in prayer asking for my friend's eyes to be open to the snares of the enemy. I pleaded that God would be using His Spirit to speak to this friend during their quiet time, and just grab them by the shoulders and shake them out of their stupor.
I hunkered down in the trench, and fought as the spiritual war waged on untamed around me.
This recent event reminded me that we do not struggle against the world…well we do, but that is hardly a fight worth fighting. Our real fight should be against the principalities of darkness in this world. We should be carrying one another's burdens and gently restoring each other to righteousness.
I know I am not telling you anything new. It isn't new for me either; I have just recently been reminded of it. The reason I have felt led to talk to you guys about it is because I know I need your help in this fight. I need you guys to be in the trenches on my behalf. This mission trip and these funds are no joke (well, they are for God…Nothing to Him…But I am SO obviously not Him). I need you all to be in serious, intense prayer for me as I prepare.
Do battle with me, church.
