Most of God’s men serve in utter obscurity! Known by very few outside their community, God’s men live day by day trying to do the will of the Lord. This divine plan is to carry out their labors without seeking recognition by their peers. If there is any applause ordered, it is usually by those who have been personally helped by their pastor. Contentment with obscurity is contrary to human nature. Yet, this is what God orders for most. After all, God has not forgotten one of His servants and we are supposed to be focused on pleasing HIM only!
Joseph WAS Promoted From Obscurity…
After living a life in obscurity while languishing in prison, Joseph was promoted to Vice President of Egypt. The Scripture is silent about the thoughts and feelings of this perfect type of Christ. Every pastor ponders what went through this young man’s mind. However, we can see that these years prepared him for his greatest role. Every now and then, God brings forth a vessel to place on His mantle piece. Just such a thing happened to Joseph!
What A Sight…
(1 Peter 5:6) “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:” (KJV)
What a beautiful sight to behold when God brings glory to himself through casting a spotlight on His man! On the other hand, it is a despicable sight to see a preacher that elevates himself. Every man of God can embrace the old nature’s desire for recognition, and act wrong with it. There is nothing sinful about wanting to be recognized for our labors, but we should let God elevate us. We are to humble ourselves and let God exalt us!
God Knows Best…
Great lessons of life are ingrained, experiences gained, and precepts are passed on because of a life of obscurity! Never should we despise the day of small things, nor should we be unhappy with our place of service. God is the Lord of the Harvest. He knows best where to plant His seeds. Though easier said than done, we should bloom where we are planted!
Conclusion…
Whether your place of service is in a large city, or a small unheard of hamlet, be content! When we think we are spinning our wheels, we are often doing the most good. Our estimation of the ministry, which God has so graciously given to us, is not always correct in its assessment. God is really good at keeping records, and one day the books will be opened. May we strive for that day, even though we may now live in obscurity!
