Devotionals by Donna - The Privilege of Ministering
Writer Author Donna J. Shepherd
Christian Column
:
Devotionals
- Fiction No
So he told them, "Every student of the Scriptures who becomes a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like someone who brings out new and old treasures from the storeroom. - Matthew 13:52 cev
The doorbell rang, and since both my son and I expected packages, we raced to the door to see what the man from UPS had left on the front porch. "Yes!" I snatched up the package with my name on it.
I carried it into the kitchen, laid it on the countertop, and ripped it open. After I pushed the paper wrapping aside, I pulled out the textbook and study guide for my latest college class. I clutched the book to my chest, and said, "I can't wait to get started on this."
Both my son and daughter looked at me and rolled their eyes. One of them said, "Oh, Mom, you are such a geek."
"I know!" I laughed. "And that's one good thing about getting older. I don't care."
I yearn to learn. I admit it. When I attended high school, I actually liked the challenge. Of course, I never made such a confession then. It wasn't 'cool' to like school that much.
But now I realize what a privilege it is, not only to read, research, and learn, but to read, research, learn, and write! I have such great admiration for those who write my textbooks and study guides - much more so now that I know the amount of hard work that can go into writing a 400-word devotional or a 1200 word article!
Before 1456 when the first Bible was produced on a printing press, all manuscripts of the Bible were copied by hand. Now we have entire shelves in our bookcases dedicated to all the different versions of the Bible. When I'm doing research, I have the entire Internet at my disposal. I can read any version I want, and listen to it being read to me if I desire. I can find numerous Bible commentaries, and countless sites with Biblical teaching.
In Matthew 13:52, scribes are described as bringing out new and old treasures. The Amplified Bible interprets this as "the fresh as well as the familiar." How can we find the fresh insights the Lord gives us unless we are familiar with His Word?
I heard the other day that even the shyest person among us will influence at least 10,000 people over the course of his or her lifetime. My articles and devotionals have been read thousands of times, and I have to admit, my stomach flutters at the idea that that many people have read my writing. To think that God might use some of my writing to bless others overwhelms me at times.
Then I remember - it's not about numbers. Or fame. But ministry. I encourage everyone who writes for the Master to remember our purpose - to lift up the Name of Jesus, and draw others to Him.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the Word of God, and that Your mercies are new every morning. Help me to faithful to minister Your Word. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.
Worth Remembering: Pause to thank God for your ministry - whether it's teaching, singing, care giving, praying, preaching, or writing. What a privilege!
Editor's Comment:
About the Writer Author
State:
Ohio
Country:
United States
Email:
donna.shepherd@gmail.com
Website:
www.donnashepherd.com
Profile:
Click here!
|
|
Most Recent From This Writer
Inspired Still - Designs by LaVellaK
Design Challenged? No worries! Among many design services I offer, I'll gladly design hats, t-shirts and more for you or your organized Special Event. Email me at justask@worthfinding.com for details!
Photgraphy & Design by LaVella Kraft
|
Select Article or Story
|