Preach the Word! [Whether it is convenient or inconvenient…]. 2 Tim. 4:2 AMPC
In training Timothy for ministry, Paul says, “Preach the Word! [Whether it is convenient or inconvenient…you as a preacher of the Word are to show people in what way their lives are wrong].”
Most hotels have a sign you can put on your bedroom door that says, “Do Not Disturb.” That sign on your door means you wan to relax, sleep, or not be bothered. Hanging that sign on your hotel room door is acceptable but putting it on your life is not.
Have you ever noticed that God doesn’t always do things on our timetable or in ways that are convenient for us?
One day at the Office, after meeting with a Client, I walked in on the Team trying to console one of our coworkers. Not wanting to get involved, I excused myself, grabbed my things and headed out the door. While waiting for the elevator, I heard the Lord say, “Go pray for her”. I responded, “Now…in the office? Oh no, I have things to do. I need to get out of here. You can more than handle it, Lord, you don’t need me.” As the impression got stronger, I sighed and just agreed to go back and pray with her.
When I got back in the room, she was there alone. I simply asked her if I could pray with her. She looks up at me and said, “I was hoping you would, but you left.” Huh?! I held her hands and encouraged her, then I prayed. As we both said, Amen”, she said, “Thanks, but how did you know what to pray for and what I needed to hear? I feel so much better!” I pointed upwards and simply said, “God knows everything. I’m just a vessel He works through.” I felt such peace as I walked back to the elevator. That was a unplanned, interrupted moments of God. One thing I often say is, “We are always on assignment for God."
Paul told Timothy that when it came to serving the Lord, he was called to do it “whether the time is favorable or not” and “whether it is convenient or inconvenient.” We need to remember that whatever God asks us to do, it’s always worth any inconvenience or difficulty we face in the process. And He will always make a way for us to accomplish His will when we are obedient to Him.
The Bible says, “So then those who are living the life of the flesh [catering to the appetites and impulses of their carnal nature] cannot please or satisfy God or be acceptable to Him” (Rom. 8:8 AMPC). Notice, this “life of the flesh” doesn’t please God. This doesn’t mean that God doesn’t love us. What it does mean is that He is not satisfied, nor will He accept behavior “catering to the appetites and impulses of their (our) carnal nature.” He desires those who are willing and obedient.
So, take down your “Do Not Disturb” sign and commit to walking in obedience, for it’s the pathway of blessing.
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