One of my favorite spiritual quotes from some old dead guy is by C.T. Studd, “Some want to live within the sound of church or chapel bell: I want to run a rescue shop within a yard of hell.” The challenge that comes along with that way of thinking is dealing with the consequences, and there are always consequences when battling in spiritual warfare. There are many days when I need strength and it seems as if I am given nothing but difficulties to make me stronger. I have asked for wisdom and then have been given intense problems to solve. When I need courage, there are an abundant amount of stresses and discouragements that I need to overcome. And when I feel the need for Love, I have been given people with some form of trouble to help and point them to the Love of the Savior. The part of ministry that hurts the most is when I have been obedient to do what I believe the Lord has called me to do, I feel greatly persecuted as promised, but the sad part is, it is by those within the walls of the church. I really have received everything that I needed and only a very few things that I thought I wanted. I am encouraged by what is written in Isaiah 43:1…Fear not, for I have redeemed you [ransomed you by paying a price instead of leaving you captives]; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned or scorched, nor will the flame kindle upon you. 3 For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior…* I know God Loves me, and the storms of my life are in His hands, so I am confident that whatever is going to happen is going to be Good. My prayer is simple, “Lord, use me however You see fit to bring glory to You, either at the pulpit or in the pit. I surrender to Your will in thought, purpose, and action, in Jesus’ precious and powerful name, Amen.” The more I read about C.T. Studd the more of a bond I feel with him, and that is why his motto has become mine, “If Jesus Christ is God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him.” pastord.blog