By Brenda Cannon Henley
Having served in Christian ministry for many years on the local church level and with a large international ministry, I have met and become friends with people from many places and walks of life. Even in the world of writing for various newspapers and magazines, I still have many opportunities to witness good people in action helping others, good deeds being done, and Christianity being shown forth from pure hearts with good motives.

I love the local church and really thought I would remain working in ours for the rest of my life. God had other plans and He literally pushed me out of my comfort zone (many times) and into His field of service. One source of amazement has always been the people God chooses to do His work. When we get to Heaven, I believe we may be very surprised at who is there and who is warmly rewarded by God for service here on earth.

I read, “God often calls those from the pit and not the pedestal.” I have known for many years that God delights in equipping the called and not necessarily in calling the equipped.

If you feel today that God has something He wants you to do, get to it. Education is helpful, training is often necessary, and experience can be valuable, but I contend that motive is often the catalyst for getting the job doing for His glory.

I have seen older, widow ladies with little means, dig in, roll up their sleeves, and help to change the lives of entire families for future generations. I have seen busy mechanics covered in grease drive to a bus barn after a normal work day to make certain buses and vans were safe and ready to transport people to worship and on fun adventures.

Camp directors, nurses, faithful Bible group leaders, doctors, teachers, and individuals seldom recognized on earth will be recognized by God with a “Well done, My good and faithful servant.” Those that care enough to give a cup of cold water in His name, provide food, transportation, and encouraged others are God’s workers. Seeing a neighbor in need and stepping up to help is the work of the ministry, too.

Having written publicly for many years, I am still amazed and honored when God uses a column or Scripture to help others. That is also a form of ministry. People often call and write to say they needed to read what God led me to write. Many times they simply say thank you and I know once again that I am where I am supposed to be and doing what I am supposed to do. I have reached people by this means that would have never attended any church.

Whatever God places in your heart to do today, realize that if He calls you, He will give you the grace to do the task. (Might be as challenging as moving old boats for a recent widow, Tim, you did it well and I thank you for being obedient).

(This article published 6/8/2015)

Brenda Cannon Henley can be reached at (409) 781-8788, at
[email protected], or by using the contact form below.

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