The Blacksmith’s Discipline: Honing Godly MenSample

The Tool of Ministry

Men were designed to act, to get things done, to produce, and to find creative ways to use the restless energy God gave us. We were created with a purpose, and that purpose is to join God in his work and act as his representative wherever we go and in whatever we do. Ministry can, however, be overwhelming, and there are three factors that make it feel that way.

Factor one: understanding my design. God made you with intent and for a purpose. But one of the great challenges in our journey is making sense of this design. It can feel just as mysterious and as overwhelming as stepping into a blacksmith’s workshop. We must realize that we are in the process of the “workmanship” of God. Your purpose and design can feel elusive, and pinpointing it can seem difficult. But it’s not actually as elusive as you think. Don’t be deterred: God wants you to discover and steward the good works, the ministry, he has called you to do.

Factor two: understanding my fit in the church. The church is of immense importance to believers. Worshipping together and engaging in ministry as a community is vital to our faith and growth. However, navigating our role within the church can be as complex as understanding the workings of the forge. Never forget that Jesus loves his church. Enough to lay down his life for it. Therefore, we must struggle through this complication, even as we are trying to find our fit in the church. It may take years for us to find it. We might have to endure staffing issues, small-group problems, grotesque sins, and even theological disagreement, but the body will ultimately function better if we can push through the complicating issues.

Factor three: the voice of self-disqualification. Men often think they are not good enough to serve in ministry—not educated enough, not knowledgeable enough, too immature, too young, too old, or too used up. Men will always feel they need a little more experience, more permission, and more support. These voices of negative self-talk create a void for men who are needed in the church. This needs to stop because it is stopping so many great men. When a man courageously resists the voice of self-disqualification, God can do more in and through him. As the man acts in obedience, God does something astonishing.

Whatever our life situation, our influence always starts with those we walk most closely with. Ministry begins by living in godly obedience in ways they can observe. We must influence them in small, daily steps over a long period of time. Remember, your ministry will not take shape overnight, but it won’t take shape at all unless you do the daily work required.

For Reflection: Reflect on the various circles of influence in your life, such as home, work, neighbors, and friends. How can you leverage your obedience to God and your influence in these circles to advance his kingdom?

Prayer Starter: Jesus, I’m here for you. Thank you for entrusting me with gifts and resources to serve others. Shape me in your forge and minister through me to those around me…

This plan is presented to you by The Blacksmith's Discipline by Vince Miller. To learn more about this book, please click here.