Good or Bad?

Lately, I have found myself asking this question in regards to just about every aspect of life. As I look around me, I see many "doing ministry." A person cannot help but see that for many it is a way to soothe a conscious that torments them. I know only too well what that feels like! The Bible makes it clear that the Gospel going forth, for whatever reason, is a good thing. So why do I still feel as though the term ministry is overused and often abused?

This attitude I've had for sometime now has prevented me from even thinking along the lines of formal ministry in the here and now. I wonder how many of you also see reasons why to stay shy of formal ministry. I do believe the Bible, all of the Bible. It tells us that we have an active enemy who seeks to lie, steal, and destroy. If we are so busy thinking about the bad, no good gets done. I have been so blessed in my relationship with the Lord. The time spent in my prayer closet is the most valuable time spent. I have forgotten more theology than I ever needed to be effective in a calling—yes, I said calling, contrasting a comment I made a few weeks back.

What is more, I am well versed in knowledge of and experience in recovery. I am now 46 years old. I am just beginning to realize that, even here, it is possible to live a productive life. I love working in education. So why not a career? I have prepared for ministry for two decades: why not start one?

At times, I find it difficult to see the difference between the good or the bad. It seems that many times in this life, it has been perceived as bad to make me see the good. I've been told that education was becoming an idol in my life, and I needed to check myself. I did not want to hear that. Turns out it was though. I was told I needed to do without "stuff" for a while. Did not want to hear that! Turns out I learned a lot. I was told that I needed to stop making excuses and make myself available to God. So that is what I will do.

Thought: I am in prison, what is your excuse? :)

Num. 6:24-26