Essentials for the Lord’s Work
by Pat McIntosh
If one were to make a list of problems areas in a given congregation, what might comprise that
list? We could possibly include moral problems, divorce and remarriage issues, disharmony, lack
of funds or any other of a number of ills many congregations face.
However, one of the greatest problems in any given congregation is that there is more work to be
done than we have workers to do them. We have a great deal of information provided in
Scripture as to the place of the Christian in the work of the church. We were created for such
work (Eph. 2:10). We are to be zealous for that work (Titus 2:14).
There any number of reasons for a congregation to be struggling in this area. These might
include the age of her members, separation by distance and not being aware of areas in which
service can be performed. Another reason may simply be the need of an “attitude adjustment.”
There are several aspects of one’s attitude that will facilitate their recognition and acceptance of
areas of service needing to be performed. First, a powerful faith will aid in that pursuit. A joyful
heart will aid us in this venture (Phil. 4:4). Other areas in which our attitudes need to grow to
effectively serve are reliance on prayer, a personal love for the Lord and a persistent effort.
These are areas we will never master, indicating that we must constantly be working on them and
improving in those areas. If the work of the Lord is going to be accomplished, it will be done by
those who have these attitude traits. If we do not have what it takes, may be those who recognize
that lack and work diligently to improve in those areas. The work has need of our efforts.
Sunday A.M. – Five Essentials for the Lord’s Work
Introduction – Eph. 2:10; Titus 2:14
- Power Faith – Num. 13:17ff.; 14:11-12; Matt. 17:14-21; James 2:14ff.
- Joyful Heart – Phil. 4:4; 1 Jno. 3:1-3; Eph. 1:3; 2 Tim. 4:7-8
- Prayer – Jas. 5:16ff.; Matt. 21:18-22; 7:7-11
- Love – Jno. 14:23-24; 1 Jno. 5:3; 2:4; Heb. 13:1; 1 Jno. 4:20-21; Heb. 10:24-25; Gal. 5:15; Lk.
19:10; 15:1-7; 1 Cor. 13:1-3 - Persistence – Lk. 18:1-8; Phil. 3:12-15; Ro. 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 15:58
P.M. Lesson – James 1:12-18 (cont.)