Is it ministry or a job?

I found this as I was surfing the other day and it went along with some things I've been praying through. It's the beginning of another new year and along with that come opportunities to re-evaluate your commitments and priorities. It's important to continually seek the Lord's direction when agreeing to fulfill another obligation or meet another need. I see so many busy women doling out their days to the highest emotional bidder without stopping to consult the Lord as to how He would have them walk out that same day. If you are a believer and your heart is to serve others, read through the list. Take a few quiet moments today to stop and ask the Lord about your commitments and how you are spending the time He has gifted to you. He may release you from something you have completed or were never intended to burden yourself with. Or, He may reveal to you another person or situation that needs your gifting and touch. Seek the Lord...

If you are doing it because no one else will, it’s a job.
If you are doing it to serve the Lord, it’s a ministry.

If you are doing it just well enough to get by, it’s a job.
If you are doing it to the best of your ability, it’s a ministry.

If you will do it only so long as it does not interfere
with other activities, it’s a job.

If you are committed to staying with it,
even when it means letting go
of other things, it’s a ministry.

If you quit because no one praised you or thanked you, it’s a job.
If you stay with it even when no one seems to notice, it’s a ministry.

If you do it because someone else said it needed to be done, it’s a job.
If you do it because you are convinced it needs to be done, it’s a ministry.

It’s hard to get excited about a job.
It is almost impossible NOT to get excited about a ministry.

People may say, “Well done,” when you do your job.
The Lord will say, “Well done!” when you complete your ministry.

An average church is filled with people doing jobs.

A great church is filled with people involved in ministry.

(Author Unknown)