The Power of a Secret Devotional Life

When we first join ministry, our motives are pure and passionate—honoring God’s kingdom out of love and commitment. However, for many of us, as time goes on, it is easy for these motives to shift. Expectations are often high, appreciation is low, and frustrations arise. Church hurt often happens because the church is full of flawed people.

Initially, we may find ourselves praying, “Lord, make me a servant,” but then feel slighted as time goes on when treated like one. When the excitement has settled, it’s important to understand that in ministry, our driving force must always be a deep love for Jesus and not a desire for recognition.

The Secret of the Secret Place

1. We Need God Because We Came From God

In the story of Genesis see important principles for our stability and sustainability. In Genesis 1:11, we see that the grass and trees are grown from the soil and need it to live. We also see that the fish come from the water and need it to survive (Gen 1:20).

This teaches us something very simple but deeply important. We come from God and need Him daily, not just on Sundays.

Being in church or holding a title doesn’t guarantee a deep connection with the Lord. True ministry must flow from being deeply rooted in Him, not just in our visible roles.

2. Don’t Let the Palace Distract You from the Presence of God

Secondly, we see another principle in the story of Esther. Queen Vashti lost her crown because she prioritized her role over her relationship with the king. Esther, however, risked her life to enter the king’s presence and ultimately saved her people (Esther 4:16).

In ministry, we can become so busy in our tasks that we neglect our relationship with God. During this time, we must remember that God didn’t call us to perform or gain titles. He desires closeness and obedience, even if we don’t feel motivated or “invited” to seek Him.

3. Christians Build Their Life on Christ with Two Types of Materials: Fireproofed or Flammable

In 1 Corinthians, Paul describes how we build on the foundation of Christ with either lasting materials (gold, silver, precious stones) or perishable ones (wood, hay, straw)(1 Corinthians 3:12-13). Fire tests these materials, revealing their true quality.

In the same way, true ministry isn’t about visible achievements or status but the quality and depth of our relationship with God.

We must continually examine our hearts to see if our ministry is rooted in a hidden, secret place with God.

4. God Didn’t Call Us to Be Busy but to Be Fruitful

Lastly, the Bible tells us in Colossians 1:10 that our walk with the Lord is more important than our work for Him.

Our “win” in ministry isn’t about visibility, success, or even effectiveness but about pleasing Jesus. A busy, machine-like life is unsustainable. Fruitfulness flows from abiding in Christ, not striving in our own strength. We’re called to be “fruitful in every good work,” which only comes from staying close to Him. Machines can produce success, but only living, connected beings produce fruit. Living with this mindset protects us from burnout and keeps us truly focused on pleasing the Lord.

I encourage you to always remember that our value in God’s kingdom doesn’t come from visibility or the positions we hold. Rather, it comes from abiding in Christ and seeking to please Him alone. May the Lord take you deeper with Him before you go higher.

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