October 9

Many times I have heard reports of unhappy people in the ministry. Sometimes it is said, “they are ready to leave the church”. This is all the work of an intimation spirit who has been sent to persuade me to please the people. Even when the complaints or concerns are correct and something does need to be corrected, apologized for or changed, most of the time it comes with a spirit of intimidation. As I read this passage I was so encouraged to refuse to be intimidated and be focused on the work instead of talking to the people who are certainly against my work. I must be gracious with people who mean well or who are humbly approaching me and are a part of my ministry, but there are others who are not a part and to those a stiff arm must be given. This is not just talking about people to me, but an attitude, a spiritual presence and even in my own mind. There must be a steadfastness to completing the work that God has given me.