A Man Skilled in His Work

“Do you see a man skilled in his work?
He will stand before kings;
He will not stand before obscure men.” Proverbs 22:29

I got frustrated with myself this week. Consider this post as bread, fresh from the oven. I learn things in real time, too.

I’ve been infatuated with the idea of being a pastor since I was first saved. Actually, when I decided not to be a dentist, that was partially motivated by a desire to go into the ministry.

I’ve always been interested in theology and the Bible. I think that’s because I didn’t grow up with it. So, I was showing a greater motivation to learn about the Lord in my free time because I didn’t learn about the Lord for 18 years. Compared to my peers, I looked like someone bound for the ministry.

Then I went to a church that thought that same thing as well. I could speak in front of people, I was “put together”, and I wanted to talk theology – it must be time to be a pastor! I don’t hold it against them, but it did really affect me for years after that.

All the while, the Lord was making it ABUNDANTLY clear that I should be a teacher. I just didn’t have eyes to see it. I am not bragging when I write these next sentences; they are just what happened.

First, I was one of 8 teachers at Collinsville High School selected to compete in a spaghetti eating competition WHILE I WAS STUDENT TEACHING (see below). Next, I helped start a brand-new charter school in St. Louis by being their first physics teacher. Lastly and most regrettably, my name was chanted during Spirit Week at Westminster Christian Academy while I was there, and somehow also the year after I left.

How could someone be so DUMB! With all the evidence that I should teach students science, I spent all my time working toward being a pastor. Now, at VSA, the Lord has finally opened my eyes. I’ve always been grateful for my work. Now, I’m thrilled to actually be free to focus on it.

Maybe I’ll be a pastor one day. Right now, I really don’t care. I want to be a teacher.

Grow where you’re planted, people. If God transplants you, that’s His business. Be skilled in the labor He has for you RIGHT NOW. Got it?