by Dr. Detra Bishop

And in the hearing of all the people he said to his disciples, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love greetings in the marketplaces and the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, who devour widows' houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation" (Luke 20:45-47, ESV).

Why do you do what you do? If you serve to be seen of men, then your service to God is in vain. Leaders in today's churches must be alert at all times. We cannot afford to be perceived as beggars or "prophets for hire" because of the way we conduct our ministries. The Word of God is clear about what we are called to do, which is to take care of those who are in need.

What need does your ministry provide for? The answer to that question is personal and corporate. Personally, what are you called to do? Corporately, what is the mission of your organization? What you are called to and the mission of your organization must be compatible; otherwise, you will find yourself "kicking against the prick." I encourage you to view your situations through the lens of the Holy Spirit. Ask God what your purpose is and discover where you can best serve that purpose.

This is the season to see. See what God has done for us by sending his Son, Jesus. See what God has for you serve God by ministering to the needy. See where God want you to serve by staying open to the movement of the Holy Spirit as you pray for guidance. Finally, be careful not to be seen as a scribe who wants all the glamor and glory--one who positions himself or herself in places of honor, but fails to be sincere in worship and service.

Be prosperous always!