Our Approach to Ministry
The aroma of truth—undeniable, authentic, and quietly awakening something deeper.
Devotional Credit: Day by Day by Grace by Bob Hoekstra
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Ministry grounded in grace demands integrity. In this devotional, Bob Hoekstra warns against manipulative or deceitful ministry practices—methods that often operate in secret and appeal to fleshly desires or pride. These may gain attention or applause, but they do not align with the heart of God.
Instead, true gospel ministry rests in transparency and truth. The goal is not to win favor through cleverness but to let the light of God’s truth shine clearly. We are not salesmen for the kingdom, nor motivational speakers drumming up emotion—we are stewards of divine revelation. Hoekstra points out that ministry under the new covenant touches something far deeper than intellect or emotion: it reaches the conscience. This “image-of-God” imprint is where conviction occurs and where grace is most transformative.
As servants of the new covenant, we not only proclaim truth—we embody it. Our lives should never contradict our message but confirm it. When we do, the Spirit uses that alignment to stir hearts and awaken consciences to the reality of God.
Personalized Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
I have placed you here as My vessel—not to impress minds or stir emotions, but to awaken hearts. My truth is not hidden in schemes or shadows. It needs no manipulation, no polishing, no enticing bait. The gospel carries its own power, for it flows from Me.
Let your words echo Mine. Let them rest not on cleverness or pressure, but on the quiet weight of eternal truth. I do not ask you to craft messages that please the ear—I call you to speak what is real and eternal. Those who are Mine will hear the ring of My voice in your words.
As you yield to Me, I will make your life a mirror of what you proclaim. Do not strive to impress or perform. Rest in Me, and I will let your life commend the message you carry. I touch consciences, not through spectacle, but through simplicity and sincerity. The heart awakened by My Spirit will know what is true.
Reject every enticement to perform, and do not be moved by applause or rejection. I am your audience. I am your source. And I have already equipped you with all you need—truth, grace, and Myself.
Scripture references: 2 Corinthians 4:2, 2 Corinthians 3:5–6, Romans 2:15
Real-Life Analogy
It’s like walking into a kitchen and instantly smelling fresh coffee brewing. No advertisement, no speech, no label—just the unmistakable aroma that draws you in. The truth, when poured out sincerely, has the same effect. It awakens something deeper than explanation. You don’t need to sell it. It speaks for itself.
Prayer of Confidence
Father, thank You that I do not need to rely on tactics or persuasive strategies to proclaim Your truth. You've already provided all I need in Christ—the message, the life, and the power to commend truth to others. I trust You to manifest Your truth through me today, not through force or flair, but through Your Spirit and my resting heart. Let my life quietly reflect what my lips speak, so that consciences—not just minds—are touched for Your glory.