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True Christian service is an overflow of the attitude of worship. Ministering to the lives of Christians springs from a depth of reverence and awe of Almighty God. When Apostle Paul appointed Timothy to shepherd the Ephesian Church, Timothy was given a list of qualifications for selection of elders, deacons and a list of ministry concerns. At the heart of serving in ministry, is a person who is firm about his calling and stays true to it. Timothy was reminded that in ministering to the household of believers, he does so as “man of God” with no other intent but to bring honour and glory to the great and Almighty God.

Timothy received the Word of God and was to preach and teach it accordingly. Having known and understood, he is to guard the accuracy of the Word, acknowledging that it is sufficient for teaching, reproof and training in righteousness (2 Tim. 3:16). As such, he is to guard the standard of the Word (2 Tim. 1:14).

In dealing with the challenges of ministry, God’s appointed servant is mindful of his fallen nature. He is aware that he is vulnerable to the same temptations common to others. To keep his good testimony he has to stay:

1. Discerning – of temptations on how wealth can be a pitfall, even monetary gain in ministry, and rejects them. He has surrendered his possessions, wealth and all he holds dear to the Lord. He must not be lured by money. Contentment is a mark of godliness.
2. Godly – in relating with people reflecting the gift of God’s righteousness in his life, reaching out in mercy and grace, and showing love and gentleness.
3. Steadfast – committing to fight the good fight of faith, unwavering in his hope of eternal life in Jesus and undistracted in his service.
4. Committed – to guard the purity of the gospel and Biblical doctrines. When opposition to faith arises, challenges are hurled against the faithful interpretation of the Bible; the assurance is that the eternal, immortal God is in full control. In spite all the difficulties, it is God who will protect and preserve salvation for eternity, just as He raised Jesus from the dead.
5. Worshipping in Spirit and in truth – the Apostle Paul declares and is lost in wonder of the immense holiness and is in awe of God. All meaningful outward forms of service must begin from the closet of a deep sense of worship of God who is worthy of all honour and praise.