From my reading in Acts 9:1-21 in the One Year New Testament.
The way that Jesus called Paul into ministry was unique. Jesus spoke a message about Paul’s calling to Ananias,
“But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.” Acts 9:15–16
Paul was chosen to preach and to suffer.
This calling was unique to Saul. Paul experienced more suffering than we can fully understand. He was beaten, shipwrecked, betrayed, stoned, and encountered many other dangers. He also suffered the extreme stress of caring about many fledgling churches. Paul’s calling was unique, but every ministry calling will be challenging.
Ministry is not easy, but it is worth it.
When God called Paul he invited him into a life of suffering. I believe that any calling that is worth pursuing will take perseverance through hard times. Suffering and joy are both natural byproducts of ministry.
If you are in ministry and have never experienced hard times you are probably not truly fulfilling your calling. The question is…
Are you willing to suffer for Jesus?
I encourage you to count the cost of your calling.
Don’t go into ministry because it is the “easy” thing to do.
Do it because it is what GOD wants you to do.
If you have been called to preach, be willing to suffer for his name. It is the greatest privilege in the world.
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