As I mentioned in my last post, this past week I have been filling in for my Pastor, who is taking a few days off for some much needed rest.
Since we have both Wednesday evening and Sunday morning services at our church, I needed to prepare two different messages, and when you add in hospital visitation it was a busy week.
Well, not that busy, but busier than what has become my new normal since retirement.; )
If you’ve never done something like this, it is both exhilarating and somewhat frightening, especially if you’ve been “out of the saddle” for awhile. It also helps a great deal to know that there are people praying for you, and I sincerely appreciate those of you who lift me up in prayer.
A lot of prayer and study time is necessary to deliver God’s word effectively, at least that’s how it is for me. I understand that many ministers preach from a sermon outline they’ve purchased online, and many simply purchase an entire sermon series which they then tweak to fit their needs.
I decided long ago however that I could not do it this way, preferring instead to spend time in the Word and in prayer in order to hear from the Lord as to what He would have me to deliver to the congregation.
This is not something I take lightly, and I approach it as if the Lord Himself were listening. Which, of course, He is.
As it turned out, it was well worth the effort, and I am happy to report that both messages were received with a lot of sincere enthusiasm, and many reported to be encouraged and strengthened.
I count it a privilege to be able to pray with people who have been broken by the cares of this life. Hearing them pour out their hearts to God, and to be able to pray and weep with them is an honor I do not take lightly.
It is humbling to be reminded that the Lord will still use a willing vessel, and I am thankful for the drive and passion for ministry He has instilled in me.
Sensing the presence of God was just icing on the cake, and that makes it all worthwhile for me.
Have a great Monday everyone!
Ron
A Front Row View of The Church 
Oh yes I so agree. I could feel the presence of God. You are such a blessing to me and Peter. I love your blogs and what God has to s a y through them. Love you Ron.
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I’m so glad you had the chance to serve again, and that the messages you delivered were well received. I take part in a women’s Bible study, and occasionally teach to ease the burden on the group’s leaders. I know exactly what you mean about the mix of exhilaration and fear (LOL)! We cannot lead or teach spiritually in our own strength, only in God’s.
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Speaking from a few horrible experiences when as a young man I thought it was ME doing the leading, I am helpless without Him!
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