One of my favorite Old Testament examples of leadership is Nehemiah. Called by God to fulfill an enormous task, Nehemiah exemplified what it means to rely on God while mobilizing others for a collective mission. Churches are not built on the back of one person, and it is foolish to think that I can build Miracle Temple alone. If I have never said it before, I am saying it now: I depend on the faithful believers at Miracle Temple to assist me in executing our shared vision and mission.
Of course, I trust God above all else. I believe that He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake (Psalm 23:3) and orders my steps according to His divine purpose (Proverbs 16:9). But I also believe that God has placed every member of Miracle Temple here for such a time as this (Esther 4:14). Please read my words carefully: You were not placed at Miracle Temple to be another pew warmer.
Nehemiah’s success was due in part to the fact that “the people had a mind to work” (Nehemiah 4:6). Even Jesus taught us to pray to the Lord of the Harvest that He would send laborers into His vineyard (Matthew 9:38). It’s easy to find people willing to celebrate the harvest, but who will commit to the hard work of planting and watering? At the end of the day, God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:7), but the work requires faithful hands and willing hearts.
I am praying that every member of Miracle Temple will prayerfully observe the needs of the church, take initiative, and put to use the gifts God has given you. Our discipleship process is about becoming a committed disciple—committed to the vision and mission of this house. This means showing up with solutions, serving with faith, and acknowledging the power of God to make a difference in the lives of His people. Refuse to be like the spies who spoke defeat (Numbers 13:31-33); instead, be a laborer who plants with hope, waters with faith, and trusts God for the harvest. Together, we can achieve the extraordinary for His glory.
I am praying that every member of Miracle Temple will prayerfully observe the needs of the church, take initiative, and put to use the gifts God has given you.
The Importance of Serving in Ministry
Serving in ministry is not just a duty; it is a divine privilege and a reflection of Christ’s example. Jesus Himself said, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). When we serve, we mirror His love and humility, becoming His hands and feet in the world.
Ministry service allows us to grow spiritually and develop our God-given gifts. As Paul wrote to the Ephesians, “He gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-12). By serving, we contribute to the health and growth of the church, building a community that reflects God’s kingdom.
Furthermore, serving in ministry fosters unity and purpose among believers. When each person fulfills their role, the church operates as a unified body, with Christ as the head (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). This collaboration glorifies God and demonstrates His power through our collective efforts.
Let us be reminded that ministry is not about personal recognition but about glorifying God and advancing His mission. As Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Together, through service, we can achieve the extraordinary for the glory of God.
