When we think of the term ministry, we often limit our affiliation or experience to the church. God wants us to expand our definition of ministry to the world around us. Did you know that your calling and purpose is your ministry as well? There is so much more than just being labeled a ministry. You are a ministry. Your life speaks volumes about the goodness of God. All of the encouragement, support, kindness and outreach you have contributed to is your ministry. You have influence. The way you speak life or encourage someone when they need it most—that is your ministry. The way your smile lights up a room—that is your ministry. The way you step up and use your purpose in finding justice and fairness for those who need it most—that is your ministry. What does your life and actions minister to others?
We cannot limit ministry to just church. We are called to have influence to those around us and others that we will come across. Every little assignment from your heart matters. Walk in knowing that you are making a difference somewhere, somehow. Your outreach is your ministry. When you begin to look at your ministry through this aspect, you will start to understand the signficance that you hold in the footprints of your life. Never underestimate the power that was given to you through Christ to make a difference. Being led by the Holy Spirit will always put you in a position of compassion. That child or young adult that became your mentee, will now know self-worth because you spoke life into them. That person that you were led to randomly pray for, will now know what God looks like in their life. The person you gave that encouragement to, experienced kindness in the midst of their darkest hour. It is more than just a ministry. Never undermine the power of God in unconventional circumstances.
Keep serving; it may feel small and uneventful, but God has you in this place for a reason. Stay persistent with your ministry. Some days will feel more frivolous and challenging than others, but stay in it. God has purpose in your position right now. You may be questioning the value of this particular space in your life. You may find yourself feeling unsure of what is happening around you. God may need you to show up for someone in that job. God may need you to be the example of grace in that friend’s life. You may be the only sight of love that your roommate will find. God always has purpose in every season. Sometimes the purpose may not be about you; the purpose may be found within your ministry to someone else around you. Never diminish the impact of that compliment you gave, or the laughter that you brought to someone. In some seasons, you may be called to be used a vessel—nothing more or nothing less. God needs you in so many ways to reach others. There is purpose for someone through you. Stay faithful within the small assignments and ministries of your life. Your impact will be great.
“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” -Isaiah 6:8
“For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” -Hebrews 6:10
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:” -1 Peter 4:10
Purposeful Pieces©