In 1 Timothy 1:12, Paul says “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.”
Like the Apostle Paul, I am amazed at God’s goodness and grace that He would include me in the privilege of being called into ministry. It is an honor to know the Lord as ones own personal Savior. Furthermore, it is an awesome privilege to be used by God in His ministry.
I have been a pastoral intern at Evergreen Baptist Church San Gabriel Valley for about five years. It has been one of my greatest blessings. I have had the experience of sitting under godly men and women, to serve alongside of them, and to learn from them.
When I was a high school student, I remember Ruth Hata telling me that I would be going into the ministry one day At that time, being an immature teenager, I thought she was crazy. Ten years later, I realize that I was the crazy one. Not only that, I also realized that I should always listen to those that are older and wiser than me.
Throughout these past years the Lord has given me the privilege to serve the high school students as their pastor. It has been exciting to witness God saving souls and maturing young people to live radical lives for their faith in Christ.
In the book of Genesis, God saw Adam lonely in the ministry in taking care of the garden. God knew Adam needed a helpmate to serve with him. God in His faithfulness provides Eve for Adam, to be his helpmate. In less then 40 days I am going to get married to Patrina Chin, my beautiful helpmate. Patrina is planning to co-labor with me in the youth ministry. We are both looking forward to serving the Lord together here at Evergreen San Gabriel Valley.
Ministry is a privilege because of the present blessing. In Mark 4:24, Jesus said, “Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measure to you; and to you who hear, more will be given.” Here we see a promise that what we give out, we will get back. I have seen that to be so true. When I pray for others, I get blessed. When I share from the scriptures, I get convicted and sanctified by the truth of God’s Word. When I share my faith, my own faith grows deeper and stronger. The one who wants to be used by the Lord in the lives of others will experience the dynamic power of the Spirit. That is why I love being in the ministry.
He has also given the same opportunity to you. Although you might earn a living as a schoolteacher, a carpenter, or a doctor, you are in the ministry just as I am. The difference between the pastors and the laity is a man-made distinction without biblical basis. Jesus said, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain.” John 15:16
If you are not serving at the church and you sense the Lord is calling you, seek the Lord and allow Him to direct you so that you can experience the privilege of being used by God.
Paul Moy