This is For You who Preach God's Word

This is for all of those who take the preaching of the Word of God seriously. For those who believe it is in fact God’s Word we are to proclaim and explain. For each who prays, and prepares, and frets, and worries over the words they present each week. Who think about who is listening and strives to embrace them with their words and immerse them in His Word. This is for all of those who think about the souls, and the hurts, and the emotional state, and the effect those words will on them.  "or those who love the people they preach to—who weep for them, rejoice with them, and live life with them. For those who can’t sleep on Saturday night as they labor in quiet study while the world sleeps, who wrestle with the text, not for applause, but because they want to “get it right.” For those who are in the battle called life - who struggle with their own “humanness,” battle discouragement, temptation, and ego, yet still stand to speak the Word. This is for those who strive to present that Word boldly, fearlessly, humbly, submissively, joyfully, and faithfully. For those who concern themselves over every truth taught, every thought expressed, who want only the best. For those who carry the weight of the message home with them, who spend their Sunday nights “beating themselves up” over what they missed or don’t feel they did well. For all of those who feel the burden long after the final ‘amen.' For those whose pulse quickens when they find a nugget of truth that enlivens and enlightens them and the corresponding anticipation of sharing that with others. For those who find unspeakable joy when God’s Word connects—when eyes light up! 

So to you—God’s Man —thank you. Thank you for not quitting when there are so many completely logical reason for you to. Thank you for standing when your heart is heavy and you are carrying unspoken burdens. Thank you for loving people deeply even when the love isn’t returned, when others have given up and when people think you’re a “rube” for not. 

You are not alone. You are part of a long line of faithful proclaimers who believe that God’s Word still changes lives.

Preach on.
And may God bless you with strength, with joy. Don’t quit!