To Those Who Preach and Fail

Preaching regularly* reminds me that I am a man of unclean lips - I find myself stumbling. I am forced to be confronted with the Word that convicts me personally.  I sin when I know better. I preach and commit the same errors I have preached against. The Word confronts me of my own humanness and convicts me of my personal helplessness.  I make mistakes in my words, I go too far in an illustration, I come across too uncaring in talking about a sin, I offend with an offhanded remark. I am insensitive toward someone struggling.  

Biblically Isaiah understood this (Isaiah 6). Paul would have too (Romans 7:14-24). The Word should convict EVERY one of us (Hebrews 4:12). James said we all struggle here (James 3:2). You will fail, you are human - I know this all too well. 

It is no excuse for doing so, but an awareness of our own sinfulness surely will make us more compassionate, more cautious, and more caring.  

It must not cripple us. Never forget: “…He remembers that we are dust” (Ps. 103:14).  God's grace is your's too and He is on your side and by your side as you teach His truths.  As you preach Sunday remember, the Lord loves and wants everyone to love Him back. Watch your words as you deliver His Word. May His Good News be your Good News and become Good News to those who hear you. 

God, bless all those who communicate the gospel today to the people who come to hear. May many be brought closer to You. Amen. 

* I've missed preaching 5 Sundays in the last 15 years - I'd call that regularly.