A minister's life is full of hardships (2 Corinthians 6:3-13). These hardships occur because they are not living for themselves but Spirit-led to serve God by tending to His flock.

Jesus suffered much as He tended to the people in His life on earth. The apostles and believers suffered for the sake of Christ amidst persecution.

As believers, we are called to minister in different ways. Some are called into full-time ministry to exemplify what they have freely received. Even believers must reflect love and teachings through their lifestyle. The minister's calling doesn't make him special - it makes us all special.

The minister is grateful for God's unique call to serve Him without distractions. The flock is grateful to receive special attention from God who cares to reveal deeper mysteries.

Ministers or believers, everyone needs to serve God. It's not a competition. It's a perfect union as members of the body of Christ. Jesus is special for both ministers and believers. Some have offices, and others have special grace. The love of God in Christ is the foundation of it all.

Yet, we need to be mindful of how we treat the ministers.

1. Love them as your own. Also, don't be afraid of them so you can help them when they go astray. Love corrects (Galatians 2:14).

2. Grow in the teachings and doctrines. Be their joy as they see you grow in the truth (3 John 1:4).

3. Follow their Christian example (1 Corinthians 11:1). Pray and seek God for the times they fall.

4. Be Spirit-led as co-heirs in Christ (Romans 8:16,17). Our unity is only through Spirit and Truth.

5. Expect friction of different faith levels and spiritual states (Matthew 10:32-39). When we don't expect it, the devil will take the opportunity to create division, etc. Love keeps our expectations godly.

Walk worthy of the vocation you are called. Let love guide your walk as your love for the glory of God.

Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.