The ‘Other’ Side of Ministry

So often people see pastors, ministers and preachers on Sunday mornings and become captivated by the attention we often attract. Unfortunately, it is because of this attention and associated ‘power’ that draws many men and women into coveting the title/position of pastor or minister. Unfortunately, it’s easy to get caught up on the church entourages, spotlights, attention and power, but many don’t fully understand the ‘other’ side and ‘true calling’ of ministry.

In the background of genuine, spirit-led pastors and ministers are prayer, counseling, education and administration. On the other side of the glitz and glamour of Sunday morning sermons or special event messages, is a life of ongoing accountability, speaking life into the seemingly hopeless and crisis management. This is why you often hear the phrase “many are called, but few are chosen.” This phrase was brought back to the forefront of my mind on this past Monday upon learning within a period of 3 hours about the death of one of our ministry members, receiving word about a friend’s brother attempting suicide and hearing that another friend/co-laborer and his wife lost their unborn baby. Ministry is seen as glamorous by those who only know the public side through Sunday morning services. However, there are the plentiful not-so-glamorous responsibilities that accompany the life of true minister.

Don’t get caught-up on the appearance of how things look externally because the true test of ministry is longevity and consistency. Those who covet the position will ultimately have the authenticity of their ‘calling’ tested over a period of time. Not everyone has the gift or anointing to speak before thousands on a regular basis and even the best speakers are connected to the plan God has for their ministry. You can select several small church preachers on a given Sunday morning and wonder why their church is so small in number because of their speaking gift. You can also select several large church preachers on a given Sunday morning and wonder why their church membership is so large because they are not-so-gifted speakers. TD Jakes summed it up the best when he said, “If God has planned for you to be a pastor or leader over thousands, then He will accomplish this despite the perception of others. If God has planned for you to be a pastor or leader over fifty people, then His will shall be accomplished no matter what others around you might say.” This simply means that you will only go as far as God’s plan will take you. It’s not based on your speaking ability, your knowledge of the Bible (although it helps), but is based on the anointing God has over your life.

Being a minister is a 24-hour per day job requiring selflessness, patience and love. Behind every powerful sermon you hear on Sunday morning or during the week is a life filled with comforting those who have lost a loved one, attending funerals, helping meet the needs of the homeless or those struggling financially, hearing from God on how to lead His people and encouraging those who may be going through a storm. Consider wisely and listen attentively if you think God is directing your path towards ministry. You can only fake ministry for so long because the 'other' side of ministry and Christ will expose you for who you really are!

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