Since becoming a Christian and catching the vision that Paul provides in 2 Timothy 2:2, I have focused most of my prayer and efforts in the work place. As an employee of a large company the “fishing pond” was always well stocked and God provided many opportunities for ministry. My vision of the ministry was always outside of my local church, and not inside. In fact, I would occasionally volunteer to serve, or sign up for bible study to see if God would open up doors, but it never seemed to go anywhere. It was usually difficult to find men who had a vision for taking the gospel to the market place and to partner up with like-minded believers to challenge and encourage each other in Christ. Ultimately, I viewed my local church as a place to worship, hear biblical teaching and help expose my family to God’s word beyond our own study time. I concluded that the only place for ministry was in the market place. Well, recently God has changed that and I have been the beneficiary!
It all started when our church announced a new mentor program and the need for volunteers. Initially I had no interest because I assumed the goal would be to follow a program versus minister to a man according to his need. However, after prayer and conversation with a few friends, I decided to throw my name in the hat to be matched with a guy. As expected, the church had a defined program with specific chapters of the Bible to read and a book to discuss. The program was designed to last 12 weeks and then at the end of the defined time, you and your guy can decide what you want to do next. Truthfully I was very skeptical about following a program and I was more concerned about following something that may not be centered on serving a man where he is in his life at the moment. However, the experience has been nothing short of amazing. I was connected with a young man who has a hunger for the scriptures and for serving the Lord. He is catching the vision of 2 Timothy 2:2, and he is on his way to being used mightily by God. As a result of the opportunity I have reached out to the mentor coordinator and will have an opportunity to invest in another man through the discipleship model. My local church has served as a new fishing pond that has historically been “dry” for me personally.
I have once again learned that God can open any door, at any time, and if I will only step through, He will provide opportunity. The work place continues to be a fertile field for the ministry, and now I can add the local church as a supplier of men waiting to be served.
Where are you fishing for men? Are there eligible “ponds” that you have been overlooking? Ask God for the opportunity and who knows, He may open up new doors.
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