An Undivided Heart: An Undivided Ministry
By Rev. Monica C. Jones, Ph.D., Contributing Writer
In Psalm 86, David pleads earnestly to God for his mercy and assistance. He lets the Lord know that he is poor and needy. Later, he asks the Lord to teach him to walk in truth with an undivided heart.
In thinking about what an undivided heart means in the contemporary church and our ministry today, I believe that we should consider how our hearts are divided in terms of direction and commitment. As we work in the church, we may get distracted by the financial or fiscal structure of the ministry or become sidetracked by our desires for growth. This can be detrimental, particularly when we are leading a ministry. To do our best, we must let God work through us, staying focused on the goal that God has set for us. This means our attention or heart must not be divided.
Appreciate the small things. It is easy to wonder if a ministry is worthwhile when it is small. Having three or four members in a Sunday school or church school class might feel discouraging. Yet, the ministry of God is not dictated by the number of people who attend; but rather, it is measured by the quality of the word that is delivered. Follow through, be consistent, and deliver the Word of God as you are inspired by the Holy Spirit and let God do the rest.
Attend to the people. As we lead a ministry, because we are wrapped up in distractions, problems, and other issues, we may not see the needs before us that our congregants have. When people want to talk or need a shoulder to cry on, it may be that you are the only one to whom they can turn. Be available to minister to them and let them know that they are not just a figure or number. They’re not just someone to contribute to the church but a daughter or son of the King who is loved by the church.
Allow God to lead. Never begin or design a ministry without first having concerted prayer. Aker’s hymn, “Lead Me, Guide Me,” says it all. When we let God lead the way, we cannot nor will we stray! Before every meeting, pray. After the lesson is over, pray. When things go well, pray. When they go wrong, pray. Give God the reins and allow God to govern all that you do. Put your ministry in his hands.
A godly leader with an undivided heart, who appreciates every opportunity, attends to the people’s needs, and allows God to lead the way, will reap the benefits. The people will, likewise. God will surely bless the work of your hands.
The Rev. Monica C. Jones, Ph.D. is the director of Christian education at Big Bethel AME Church in Atlanta, Georgia.
