1st Timothy 4:6. “If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.” A GOOD MINISTER. He started out serving in practical ways, caring for the needs of others. There are things to be learned in that venue that at first seemed a lot of bother. Until we realize that to be faithful in our duty takes practice over a period of time – Before the things I’ve learned as an apprentice ultimately become truly mine.
During times of training, we learn how to speak, when to talk, and also to be silent. When the time comes that we are on our own, we have learned how the Spirit guides us. We have learned there are times when a few words are better, but when it is time to speak – Those to whom we are addressing our message, won’t have for the meaning to seek.
Words of good doctrine are always biblical; they are not ideas plucked out of the air. When speaking for God, there is no vagueness or pride; it’s appropriate to those who are there. The words of faith are not speculations; we have learned to practice what we preach – And when spoken by one who is a good minister of Christ, the hearts and consciences of people we reach.
It is important to speak especially of things we’ve experienced; things we know firsthand. To spend time emoting with great swelling words reveals the measure of a man. He knows all the answers, but the problems have been missed while living in his ivory tower. People give heed to one who can link with them, and maybe for a time, has been lower.
The duty of a good minister is to meet needs, often it means to give warnings, Regarding those who deceive and have man-made rules to give, their own egos they are adoring. From some bias they have or an agenda, they want to impose so they can lead. But the good minister knows from his experiences in life, when to such words not to give heed.
He has learned from God Himself; the Holy Spirit guides the hearts and minds of those who believe. The good minister can help others to understand what to reject and what to receive. Leading doesn’t mean just telling others what to do; a good minister is willing to “stand in the gap,” And defend the Lord’s people from those who deceive, and resist every satanic attack.
“I am not sure what to expect this weekend, Father, but please keep me in the current of Thy thoughts. Give me wisdom to say what should be said, and to be silent when that is necessary. Help me to help others and not appear to (or have) a personal agenda of some kind. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”
The words of scripture in one's own soul convey the value of "the faith" to those who listen to his teaching. Practicing what is right and refusing that which is wrong is fundamental in Christian ministry. Behind both of these is the standard of godliness which comes through self-discipline, study of the word of God, conscious fellowship with the Lord, and righteous conduct in life as a testimony to "the faith." This "faithful saying," the weighty truth that has been taught, is of great importance in our lives. There is work to do as a disciple of the Lord, and it means there are things we must refuse to do, and things we must train ourselves to do. Our God-given gifts and talents are to be used in our service and work among God's people. Laboring in service and with loyalty to God and our calling is worth every effort. Even when one is tired and feels he or she can go no further, God is able to empower us to accomplish His purpose. Our confidence is in Him, not ourselves. There will be reproach and opposition in service that we may experience, and there may never be any honor from men. In our personal service for God, our hope is in "the living God." We live through Him, for Him, and in Him.