Just a word of encouragement to those of you who teach or preach the word of God on a regular basis. When you feel deflated after delivering your sermon (or classroom lecture), don't be surprised. It's a normal part of teaching and preaching. Don't assumed you've failed. Most preachers feel at least a bit disappointed with their presentation. I know I do. Martyn Lloyd-Jones once confessed, "I can say quite honestly that I would not cross the road to listen to myself preach."
But your feelings about your messages aren't necessary an accurate measure of their effectiveness. You're probably doing a better job than you're thinking. God is still working despite your limitations and many shortcomings. Here's a passage from Augustine's Confessions I was reading during my morning devotions today:
I might paraphrase these words as follows:
"Woe to those who are silent about Thee, because even the most loquacious among us become quiet and can't speak a word."
Elsewhere (Tractatus in Evangelium Iohannis 1.35) Augustine writes, "All things can be said about God, and yet nothing about God can be said worthily."
Preacher friend: Don't ever despair when you feel like a failure. Do your best and then leave the rest up to God.
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| "Who is adequate for these things?" |