The "pursuit of numbers" can have devastating effects. It can make us preach a watered-down Gospel to attract a crowd. It can lead to unhealthy competition among believers. It can even breed ungodly disappointment. But we must remember Luke 15:10: "There is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents."

In 1 Samuel 16:7, we are taught that God values the things that we often ignore. The Scripture reads: "The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." This Scripture suggests that God does not calculate our value in ministry by external measurements. He measures our value by our obedience, sincerity, and pursuit of His perfect will.

In this day and age, everywhere you turn there is an article, book, or seminar on ministerial growth. What these "experts" fail to realize is that God releases growth – not a clever marketing plan or a 5-step blueprint. In 1 Corinthians 3:6, Apostle Paul stated: "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow." Yes, we must plant and water the ministry that God has given us; but growth comes if God wants to release it, and when He wants it to be released. Some of us will reach a handful, and others of us will reach millions. Our job, however, is to be faithful no matter how big or small our assignment is. Therefore, my sisters, teach, preach, and serve with excellence no matter how many people you (as an individual) touch with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Collectively (as the body of Christ) we will reach the world.

Written by: Marsha DuCille - Publisher/Editorial Director
publisher @ calledmagazine.com