Recently, while in Ghana, a part of the lessons we delivered included an opportunity for the nearly three hundred preachers gathered to ask questions. While teaching preachers in Ethiopia this week, I have had the blessing of visiting with several of the men who are part of the program.
What has become abundantly clear is that preachers all around the world share the same concerns, desires, and questions. We all want to know that our preaching and our work are making a difference in the lives of those who hear us. We all have the same concerns about our families. We all want to be able to provide for our wives, children, and grandchildren. We all want to get along with the people we work with. We all have a strong desire to be sure that our preaching and ministry are pleasing to God.
If we are not careful, these questions can seep into our thoughts, and we may start wondering if we are all alone. This feeling of uncertainty can create doubt. We wonder if our work matters. At times, we need to be reminded that we are all brothers who need one another.
John, the friend of our Lord wrote, “I, John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance whichare in Jesus…” (1 John 1:9) Wherever we find ourselves in the world, and whatever we enduring, may we never forget that we are brothers, and fellow partakers in the kingdom.
My dear brothers, if you are going through a tough season, don’t forget, you are not alone. Not only do we have the promise that our Lord will never leave us or forsake us, but we also rest in the knowledge that there are brothers around the world who understand.
