“Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart.” 2 Corinthians 4:1

Look Up, Child

I was having a bad week from a spiritual point of view. I felt aimless and without purpose. I was questioning my role in the grand scheme of kingdom living. Two dearly beloveds, who had professed faith in the Lord, now seem to be doubting and questioning. One was walking in open disobedience. All those prayers, all those conversations, the ministry we had shared—and now it had come to this? I was discouraged and disillusioned.

Then I picked up my Bible and read, “Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart” (2 Corinthians 4:1). My mind came to a screeching, smoking halt. Stop right there and meditate on what God is saying.

I do have this ministry—to my husband, to family, to neighbors, to the body of Christ, to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the uttermost parts of the earth. This is God’s will for me and He has empowered me and equipped me to fulfill my calling.

Once I went my own way and did my own thing, but by His great mercies He met me in the middle of my mess and changed me forever. He is always speaking to me, teaching me, correcting me, blessing me and demonstrating His glorious goodness in my life. I have received mercy!

Therefore, I will not lose heart. I will not give up. I will see beyond these current circumstances to the hope I have in Jesus Christ. Nothing will deter me from fulfilling my ministry of reconciliation. God is not done yet. It is too soon to quit. God will keep every promise and fulfill His perfect will, not only in my life, but in the lives of the ones I love and pray for. An eternity stretches beyond my sight and God sees all that is yet to come. I will treasure the eternal and get my eyes off the right now.

I have seen this happen before and I should know better. I have seen the prodigal come home. I have celebrated those homecomings and feasted at the table laden with the fatted calf. The power is of God and not this earthen vessel. Thus, I will continue in love and prayer and faith in the God who does wonders. I will not lose heart!

But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I will trust in the mercy of God forever and ever. I will praise You forever, because You have done it. And in the presence of Your saints I will wait on Your name. For it is good. Psalm 52:8-9 Amen.