Gal 4:13-14, 13 You know it was because of a bodily ailment that I preached the gospel to you at first, 14 and though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus.
Paul was self conscious as we all are, only that he did not want anything about him to hinder the gospel. His bodily ailment perhaps disfigured him leaving him to think that his condition might possibly lessen his effectiveness in reaching others. He became more encouraged when the Galatians did not despise nor reject him on the account of it. They received him as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.
This shows that even our pastors, leaders, those that minster to us face challenges physically and spiritually but with our prayers and encouragements, they can blossom, flourish and continue serving effectively and faithfully. While Paul’s condition did not hinder him from preaching, the Galatians receiving him was a huge encouragement. Just as we need the shepherds’ ministry, they in similar fashion need ours too.
2 replies on “Being An Encouragement To Ministers”
Amen, brother Evans. We should remember to encourage those who labor in ministry among us, that they be not discouraged in the work of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Amen, I think that is something missing today since majority just come to receive and not give. May the Lord help us.