Ministry requires a work that is ultimately discipleship and as we see throughout the Bible, relationships yield the greatest return. When you invest time, show love and mentor people, you grow together and move the Kingdom forward together. Here are some examples:
· Twelves Disciples
o For amazement had seized him and all his companions because of the catch of fish which they had taken; and likewise also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not fear, from now on you will be catching people." When they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed Him. Luke 5:9-11
· Paul and Timothy
o To Timothy, my beloved son: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Timothy 1:2
o The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful people who will be able to teach others also. 2 Timothy 2:2
· Elijah and Elisha
o So he departed from there and found Elisha the son of Shaphat while he was plowing, with twelve yoke of oxen in front of him, and he with the twelfth. And Elijah came over to him and threw his cloak on him.
o And Elisha was watching it and he was crying out, "My father, my father, the chariot of Israel and its horsemen!" And he did not see Elijah again. Then he did not see Elijah again. Then he took hold of his own clothes and tore them in tow pieces. 2 Kings 2:12
· Paul, Silas and Lydia
o A woman named Lydia was listening; she was a seller of purple fabrics from the city of Thyatira, and a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to the things spoken by Paul. Now when she and her household had been baptized, she urged us, saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house and stay." And she prevailed upon us. They left the prison and entered the house of Lydia, and when they saw the brothers and sisters, they encouraged them and departed. Acts 16:14-15, 40
Who can you befriend, devote your time to and give your heart to this season? When hearts knit together, your team becomes dedicated to your vision and wants to see your vision come to past. They have the desire to commit, reserve their time and make sacrifices when needed to lead or serve alongside of you.
More importantly, like Elijah, you will have people in place to continue the race. Leaving a rich legacy behind that didn't stop with you.
Actions Steps
1. Identify 3 to 5 people you can pour into and minister to them according to where they are in life right now.
2. Take them under your wing to see what you do and how you do it.
3. Take personal interest in them by carving out one on one time to learn about them, hear their heart and share yours.
4. See them the way God sees them and speak to who they are and who you see them growing to be.
5. Pray for them, mentor them, and support them through every season. Look forward to seeing God do great things through them.