40 Day Daniel Fast Day 9

1 Corinthians 15:58  Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

What's the percentage of commitment? Can you say you are committed if you give 50%? What about 92%? Too often, we find ourselves looking to provide Jesus with the last of what we have to spare! I heard one preacher say we make Jesus "Lord of the leftovers." Whatever time we have leftover, that's what we will give; after I have made sure I have all of my work hours planned, my time with my family, my hobbies, my me time, and so on, then I will see if I can make it to the church to serve. Notice the words Paul uses in this verse; he says Brethren, I want you to be "steadfast," "immovable," and "abounding"! I want you to be firm and settled, persistent and stubborn, and excel!

Can you see this? Paul said in the work you are doing; I need you to give it your all, I want you to be consistent, I want you to be persistent, and I want it always to show an increase. Why? Because of our time (those of us who name the name of Christ), our time here on earth is limited; we have much work that has to be done for the kingdom. You see, if you are looking at your ministry work as a time to shine, you are in it for the wrong reasons. If you are asking what's in it for me, you are in it for the wrong reason. If you are looking to be paid, you are in it for the wrong reasons. Paul is saying God deserves nothing but the best, so if you are not steadfast in work, you will leave the work. If you are not grounded in what you are called to do and be, you will pick up and go home. If you are not showing growth, taking the ministry you are a part of and owning the position, you might as well put it back! Why? Because others who have yet to know the Lord need to be invited in, believers must be taught to grow in the Lord. Saints, we have work to do, the hour is getting late, and Jesus is returning; what will He find you doing?

What is Paul doing? The same thing I am doing, trying to get you more enthusiastic about the Lord's work! What is he calling you to do? Where is he calling you to serve? Below is a list of ministries to consider. For the next few days, if you are not serving, would you consider joining in one of these areas?

Challenge: Pray about serving
A. Discipleship Ministry
Prayer, Christian Education, Small Groups, Care Groups, Family Life: (Children’s/Teen/Young Adults/Men-Women’s/Marriage/Season Saints)
B. Worship Ministry
Production/Media, Creative team, Music, Praise team
C. Outreach Ministry
Missions/Evangelism, Food pantry, Prison ministry, Community Outreach
Ministry
D. Membership Services
Assimilation, New Members, Compassion, Hospitality: (Volunteer services, Greeters, Ushers, Security)

Read
2 Chronicles 15:7
Hebrews 6:10
1 Thessalonians 1:3