Dwayne Clemmons, Adjunct Instructor – Virginia Department of Fire Programs; Founder – DMC Ministries; Author of Exploits, Jesus Rides in an Ambulance, and Utterances from the Throne Room; Volunteer in Fire and EMS for forty years in Virginia

SMALL BEGINNINGS

Doing something out of the norm at your workplace

Folks at the station gave him a hard time: “Hey, guys, here he comes—better watch that language.” The taunts were constant, but he just smiled and joked with the guys. He walked his walk without criticizing and judging, only sharing when the opportunity arose. Then it happened. One of their own perished in a fire. Guess who they all turned to.

Willingly he prayed with the rest of the crew, reached out to the family, and shared God’s promises. He made himself available.

To be effective ministers we must be available to deliver the Good News wherever God places us—be it on scene, at home, or in our workplace. Is this easy? Not always! But remember, God has not given us a spirit of fear. Romans 8:15 says, “For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’”

Rather than being fearful or even hesitant to minister to those around us, we can rely on our personal Father, our “Abba, Father,” who dwells within us. He enables us to go somewhere we might otherwise turn away from.

Ministering in a secular environment can be intimidating. But remember, God’s hand is in whatever his children do. Scripture assures us that without a doubt God is for us. First John 4:4 says, “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one [Christ] who is in you is greater than the one [Satan] who is in the world.” James 1:22 says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” In other words, be a doer of the Word. Don’t just listen, and don’t be deceived.

Begin by being available. Then pray continually over your role in your workplace. You may have this “little” thought one day to do something somewhat out of the norm. Maybe there are one or two folks who would welcome you sharing a Scripture or prayer with them. Don’t despise small beginnings. God will be blessed, his kingdom will grow with your timely words, and you will find joy.

Prayer:

When it comes to sharing your Word, love, and peace, I will be a doer of the Word of God. Thank you for blessing me as I seek to bless others. I pray, Lord, that daily you will reveal how you will use me in my workplace.