The Spiritual Boot Camp (II)
Reflection: 2 Timothy 2:20-26, 1 Peter 5:8-11
Being a vessel useful to the Lord comes with a price – a high one, at that. You will be tested – and very much so (Luke 12:48). The Lord will not send out half-baked vessels. Be sure to remain in the Spiritual Boot Camp you have been enrolled in, and finish up. Expect to experience spiritual warfare, and be rejected by people, lied on, ridiculed, criticized, hated, slandered, and gossiped about. Some who attended this Camp have also had to lose some of the material things they used to enjoy, at some point. If this happens to you, church folks may begin to tell you: “The devil stole your blessings.” “You need deliverance." Don’t embrace their opinions, if you were truly called, beloved. The devil stole nothing! The Lord had to strip you of all that you placed your trust in, and your pride. It’s part of the refining process required to prepare you for the tasks ahead.
Some friends will disappear; yes. The truth is that they were never part of the Lord’s plan for you. Love them from a distance and remember them in your prayers (you are going to have to narrow down your circle of friends, anyway). The few friends the Lord hand-picked for you will however stay close, even in their occasional confused, and clueless state.
The end is glorious, friends; count it all joy (James 1:2-4, James 1:12). Some of us have been there, and may be able to give you some advice, if needed; but every calling is unique. There is no better Teacher, Guide, Counsellor, and Comforter than the Holy Spirit. Turn to Him.
Shalom!
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