Seasons of Struggle

This week it falls my lot to celebrate one of those big-numbered, milestone Birthdays. Several “well-meaning” folk came to me on Sunday to gleefully “remind” me of my age! One of my dear shepherds told me that tonight was my last sermon as a young preacher! Another “welcomed” me into the Primetimers! 

Some of you reading this, understand exactly what we’re talking about. You know, when people don’t call you anymore to ask you to come be their preacher because they are looking for a younger man. They might call to see if you know any younger men. You know, they tell you they imagine that you were at one time a really effective preacher. It’s time to put you out to pasture and bring in a younger man.

Some of you are still young and people are telling you someday you are going to make a really good preacher. They may overlook you in serious discussions because they don’t think you are mature enough yet, you haven’t “paid your dues.”

Whatever the reason, maybe there are times in our ministry lives, in our weaker moments, we feel marginalized, unneeded, and worst of all, unwanted. How do we handle these seasons of our lives if we aren’t ready to throw in the towel? A couple of thoughts.

Jesus was ignored by many, including some in His own family. He was forsaken by those who were closest to Him who knew Him best. Those who should have understood His work did not. Yet, He still persevered. Not everyone is going to love us like we think they should. They want all think we are the greatest person they’ve ever met. When that happens, we are in good company.

Lean on Him. During tough seasons there may be people we can’t completely depend on. However, we can always depend on Him He will never walk out on us. He will always be with us. We can cast all our cares on Him, because He cares for us.

Dear God, Please, bless your men this week who might be in seasons of discontent. Help them to know that we have a High Priest who understands every problem we encounter. Help us to always cast our cares on You. In the Name of our Savior, we pray, Amen.