OUT OF THE BOX

This article was originally written as a list of charges I gave to men who were about to be ordained into the ministry. Each point below is but the “tip of an iceberg” of more comprehensive teaching and exhortation hidden beneath the surface. Volumes could be written. It is also noteworthy to mention that although these charges were given to leaders, they are applicable to every person who follows our Lord. The article is rather long, but deserves a careful reading and study. Some Biblical references are given for those who desire to study more fully or use the article as a teaching tool.   ---Billy Long   CHARGES TO LEADERS I charge you to walk in a deep, abiding faith in the Sovereign Almighty God. This will produce the ability to maintain composure, rest, and peace in the face of pressure, problems, adversity, and conflict. It will prevent unwise and premature reaction, carnal grasping and impulsiveness.   Faith produces the grace to wait, endure, and per...

A Minister’s Personal Prayer I don’t want to be just another guest speaker or give just another sermon. I want to “carry the goods” and actually deliver them. To see the grace and presence of God that actually makes a difference in the lives of those to whom I speak. Take note of the confidence and great expectations expressed by the Apostle Paul regarding what he knew would happen when he ministered to God’s people. “For I know that when I come to you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessings of the gospel of Christ.” (Romans 15: 29). What does that mean? It means he carried an anointing of the grace and presence of God that actually imparted something significant and substantive into the lives of those to whom he spoke. He knew that his message would be in the demonstration of the Holy Spirit and power, and not in word only. He “had the goods” and he knew the anointing and presence of the Holy Spirit would make a real difference and change lives wherever he went. The Apostle...