DIVINE ENCOURAGEMENT IN MINISTRY
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Acts 18:9-10
Key Verse: “Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace.” (Acts 18:9)
Supporting Texts: Isaiah 41:10; Joshua 1:9; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Psalm 27:1; Galatians 6:9
Description:
God strengthens and encourages His servants to continue in ministry even during challenging times.
INTRODUCTION:
Every minister and believer serving in the vineyard of God will face moments of fear, discouragement, and opposition. The ministry is not without trials, but in every situation, the Lord provides strength, assurance, and divine encouragement.
In Acts 18, Paul was ministering in Corinth, a city filled with immorality, idolatry, and resistance to the gospel. Yet in the midst of this hostility, God spoke to him in a vision: “Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace.” This divine word strengthened Paul to continue preaching despite opposition.
This passage reminds us that divine encouragement is a vital source of strength in ministry. When challenges arise, and it feels like our efforts are fruitless, the voice of God brings renewal, hope, and fresh fire to continue the mission.
1. GOD KNOWS WHEN HIS SERVANTS ARE DISCOURAGED
God sees the weariness and fears that come with ministry and provides encouragement in due season.
a) God is aware of our emotional and spiritual struggles (Psalm 103:13-14). The Lord understands our frailty and provides comfort when we feel weak and overwhelmed.
b) God never ignores the cries of His servants (Psalm 34:17-19). Every sigh, tear, and prayer offered in pain is noticed by heaven and answered with divine assurance.
c) Discouragement is not a sign of failure (1 Kings 19:4-8). Even great prophets like Elijah once felt discouraged, yet God restored and strengthened them.
d) Divine awareness brings divine assistance (Isaiah 49:15-16). God never abandons His faithful labourers; His eyes are upon them continually.
Biblical Example: Elijah, under the juniper tree, felt alone and defeated, but God ministered to him with food, rest, and a still small voice of encouragement (1 Kings 19:4-12).
2. GOD SPEAKS WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT IN DIFFICULT SEASONS
God often sends a timely word that lifts the heart of His weary servants and revives their confidence.
a) The Word of God brings renewed courage (Isaiah 41:10). Divine encouragement strengthens the heart and removes fear, empowering the servant to continue.
b) God’s word is personal and specific (Acts 18:9). God spoke directly to Paul, “Be not afraid, but speak” addressing his exact situation.
c) God’s word carries divine assurance (Joshua 1:9). Like Joshua, Paul was reminded that God’s presence guarantees success despite opposition.
d) Encouragement from God rekindles passion for ministry (Jeremiah 20:9). When God speaks, the fire to serve Him burns anew within the heart of His servant.
Biblical Example: Joshua received divine encouragement at the beginning of his leadership journey “Be strong and of good courage” (Joshua 1:6-9) which sustained him through battles and challenges.
3. GOD’S PRESENCE IS THE SOURCE OF MINISTERIAL STRENGTH
The presence of God assures victory, peace, and success in every aspect of ministry.
a) Divine presence dispels fear (Psalm 23:4). When God is with you, no valley or darkness can defeat you. His presence guarantees comfort.
b) God’s presence ensures protection (Isaiah 43:2). Even when passing through fire or flood, the servant of God will not be destroyed.
c) The presence of God empowers the message (Acts 4:31). When the Holy Spirit fills His servants, their words carry authority and power.
d) Those who carry God’s presence enjoy divine backing (Exodus 33:14-15). Moses refused to move without God’s presence because it distinguishes true servants from ordinary men.
Biblical Example: When Paul stood before the Lord in Corinth, God said, “For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee” (Acts 18:10). This assurance kept him ministering boldly for eighteen months.
4. GOD ENCOURAGES THROUGH FRUITFUL RESULTS AND DIVINE COMPANIONSHIP
Encouragement also comes through visible impact and supportive relationships in ministry.
a) God raises helpers in times of need (Philippians 4:14-15). Partners like Aquila, Priscilla, and Timothy stood with Paul and strengthened his hands.
b) The joy of seeing souls saved is a divine motivation (3 John 1:4). Every conversion and testimony renews the zeal to continue the work of the Kingdom.
c) God rewards faithfulness with increase (Galatians 6:9). Perseverance in service eventually brings fruitfulness and divine reward.
d) Companionship in ministry brings encouragement (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). God often uses fellow believers to lift and strengthen His servants in times of trial.
Biblical Example: When Paul was in prison, God sent Onesiphorus to refresh him and not be ashamed of his chains (2 Timothy 1:16-17).
CONCLUSION:
God is the unfailing source of encouragement for His servants. When fear or discouragement sets in, His voice comes with assurance: “Be not afraid, but speak.” Every true minister must learn to listen to the divine voice that strengthens and empowers them to keep going.
In ministry, challenges are inevitable, but the presence and promises of God ensure that no servant stands alone. God’s encouragement transforms fear into faith, weakness into strength, and silence into bold proclamation. Therefore, stand firm, God is with you.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, thank You for always encouraging and strengthening me in my journey of service.
2. Father, silence every voice of fear and discouragement in my life.
3. Lord, renew my strength and passion for Your work.
4. Holy Spirit, speak Your word of comfort and direction in my difficult seasons.
5. Lord, surround me with divine helpers who will strengthen my hands in ministry.
6. Father, fill me continually with Your presence and boldness to declare Your truth.
7. Lord, let every opposition against my assignment be scattered by Your power.
8. Grant me visible results that will encourage me to press on in service.
9. Holy Spirit, use me to bring encouragement to other servants of God.
10. Lord, let Your promises over my life continually speak strength and hope to me.
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You shall not be weary; the Lord shall strengthen you for every task ahead!
2. You shall hear the voice of God clearly in your moments of weakness!
3. The hand of God shall rest upon you for renewed boldness in ministry!
4. Every fear and discouragement is broken over your life in Jesus’ name!
5. You shall experience divine companionship that will never leave you stranded!
6. The Lord shall raise faithful helpers to lift your hands in ministry!
7. Every hidden battle against your assignment shall bow before the presence of God!
8. You shall see tangible results that will bring you joy and renewed strength!
9. Your voice shall not be silenced; you shall declare the word of the Lord with power!
10. Henceforth, divine encouragement shall carry you from glory to greater glory!