At a recent gathering of pastors and professionals, we were asked to introduce ourselves. When it was my turn, I confidently introduced myself as a full-time pastor. It reminded me of a lesson from my spiritual father: “Carry out your ministry with excellence and obedience, so you’re not ashamed when others discuss their career successes.”
Friend, carry out your life and ministry with excellence and commitment (2 Timothy 2:15). Fear, shame, and doubt are three major challenges facing Christians, especially ministers of the gospel. Fear of not fulfilling your calling, shame that it’s not worth pursuing, and doubt in God’s power working through you (2 Timothy 1:6-7).
Your destiny is on the other side of fear. Don’t let fear keep you from God’s best (Matthew 14:28-31). Fear has kept many people stuck. Fear of tomorrow leads people to cling to the past and settle for the present. God allows challenges to help you grow. Let God’s love cast out fear (1 John 4:18).
Answering God’s call, especially into full-time ministry, is honourable – don’t let shame stop you (Acts 26:19). Pursue your calling with integrity and commitment, and you’ll have no reason for shame among your peers. Seeing ministry as serious with eternal impact removes shame (Romans 1:16).
In that room that day, other people’s introductions didn’t make me doubt my calling (Galatians 2:8-9). I knew I was where I should be. If other people’s paths make you doubt your vision, check your connection with God. Divine visions come from divine encounters. Encounters strengthen conviction (Acts 9:1-6).
Abide in your calling (1 Corinthians 7:20). Life isn’t competition. Ministry isn’t comparison – it’s complementation. The professional shouldn’t feel out of place, and the pastor shouldn’t feel less. The goal is to honour Jesus and fulfil destiny (Galatians 1:24). Every call can take you to God’s best if you give it your all.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria