Challenges

Jesus had some real challenges in His ministry. We tend to think because He was God that everything clicked along smoothly. Everything DID click along according to plan, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it was smooth. He said we shouldn’t expect any better treatment than He got.  Reading Mark 3 this morning, I saw a picture of ministry.

Jesus had some real challenges in His ministry. We tend to think because He was God that everything clicked along smoothly. Everything DID click along according to plan, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it was smooth. He said we shouldn’t expect any better treatment than He got.  Reading Mark 3 this morning, I saw a picture of ministry.

• People will take advantage of your time and attention. Verse 20 said Jesus couldn’t even grab time to eat.
• People will question everything about your ministry. Verse 21, Jesus’ own people, His family and friends questioned His sanity.
• People will misattribute your motives. In verse 22, the religious leaders reasoned that Jesus had to be in league with Beelzebub.

If ministry wasn’t tough enough, what makes it more difficult is that these same people…

• May be part of the respected religious establishment (v.22)
• May believe they have your best interests at heart (v.21)
• May be well meaning (v.31)
• May be your closest associates, perhaps even family (v.32)

I tend to take opposition as a sure sign that I’m headed the wrong direction. That’s not always the case. I need to take the time in prayer and study to confirm with God. Once the confirmation comes, I can’t second-guess that.

The flip-side is a warning to be very careful before questioning or criticizing another’s ministry. I can’t presume to know how God is directing someone else.