I recently delved into John Piper’s article titled “Satan’s Ten Strategies Against You” (and linked here: Satan’s 10 Strategies Against You), where he discusses Satan’s opposition to missionary plans, citing 1 Thessalonians 2:17–18 as an example. As someone involved in camp ministry, I’ve faced unexpected challenges that led me to briefly quit. Yet, I’ve learned that Jesus calls us even when it’s tough, and ministry may involve opposition.
Initially, I naively believed that following the Lord’s will would mean easy doors opening. However, I’ve come to realize that while God shows the doors, they may not always open easily, and resistance is part of the journey. Leading in ministry means not everyone will agree or like your decisions, emphasizing the need to make informed choices guided by the Lord.
We taught, just this past summer, about Ephesians 6 and the weapons of warfare that are made available to us. God’s providence, looking back. I’m so very thankful that Jesus is victorious in the end and loves me enough to bring me through this often-difficult sanctification process.
This next part below, was written by Hannah Williamson, and resonates with the challenges of one’s calling. It emphasizes that fulfilling your calling will more than likely involve personal struggles, spiritual warfare, and a necessary sifting process. The closing encouragement underscores the value of seeking comfort and identity in the Father during challenging times, acknowledging that the cost of your call may be bloody, and scar filled, but eternally worthwhile.
Your calling is going to crush you.
If you are called to mend the brokenhearted, you are going to wrestle with a broken heart.
If you are called to heal God’s little ones, you are going to experience your own share of trauma.
If you’re called to preach and teach the gospel, you WILL be sifted for the wisdom that anoints your message.
If you are called to empower, your self-esteem will be attacked – your successes hard fought.
Your calling will come with spiritual warfare and a sifting – BOTH are necessary for your mantle to be authentic, humble, and powerful.
Your crushing won’t be easy because your assignment is not easy – and you can’t minister POWERFULLY what you haven’t walked out.
Read that sentence again.
When you’re feeling the weight of it coming down on you, RUN to the Father who longs to be your comfort. Let him whisper your true identity over you while resting under the shadow of his wings. Position yourself against his heartbeat. Let him renew your strength and set your eyes forward.
No olives, no oil.
No grapes, no wine.
Your oil is not cheap my friend.