Despite temptations one should continue to serve the Lord with all humility of mind (Acts 20: 19).  We should consider that the “light affliction” which we may suffer in the moment shall afford us a greater and eternal weight of glory, if we focus on the eternal things which are not seen than on the temporal things which we see. (2 Corinthians 4:17-18).

Also, when faced with trials, God’s servant should be of the mind that though “we are troubled on every side, yet [we are] not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; [though] persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed”.  We should bear their trials in the body as the dying of Jesus so that the life also of Jesus will manifest in our mortal body. (2 Corinthians 4:8-11).  

We must further have this mind to trust and serve God and be blameless in the ministry: whether “by honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things”. (2 Corinthians 6:3-4 and 6:8-10).

 Finally, to enhance their trustworthiness with God, Ministers of God should in all things behave appropriately as God’s servants with much patience, be it in afflictions, in needs, in distresses, in stripes, imprisonments, fasting, and labours. (2 Corinthians 6:3-5; & 11:23). Spiritual maturity in the ways of God enhances “by the word of truth, by the power of God, [and] by the armour of righteousness around them (2 Corinthians 6:7)

 Next week by grace, we will conclude the series on “The Trust of God” by examining the final trait for service trustworthiness which is patience in waiting on God.

PRAYER

 Almighty God, thank you for your word and for thy mercy to all thy children.

We acknowledge thy great goodness in giving us your son Jesus Christ as the living example of your “divine nature” and of thy ways.

We Praise You for dispensing the power of Your Holy Spirit to reveal unto us your deep secrets and mysteries.

Holy Father, we pray for divine wisdom, knowledge and understanding of your abundant grace in Jesus Christ; that we may become more like Christ as we serve in your vineyard.

Dear Lord, deliver us from worldly lusts and renew our minds in righteousness.

Please Father, strengthen our resolve and sharpen our spiritual ability in seasons of temptation; that we may not miss the lessons that may qualify our testimonies for your Glory.

 I make this prayer in JESUS NAME. Have a blessed Sabbath.

Lots of Love, P. Schwartz (SOG), 10 March 2018.