My cousin, Joe, thought I was ready. Grandpa thought I was ready, but I didn’t think I was ready to take the reins of that prancing Shetland pony I was sitting on. I watched Joe, who was four years older and much bigger, ride him around the barn lot. Okay, it looks easy. I felt confident having Grandpa lead the pony around with me on it, with HIM holding the reins. Had they taught me enough?

As soon as I took the reins, and Joe and Grandpa stepped back, the horse knew. This skittish pony took about two steps, reared up, and I slid right off the back! I giggle now, but back then it was not so funny. Of course, what do you always say? “When you fall off the horse, you get right back on.” Yep, that’s what they say. It took me a few minutes to do that. But I did. And I was glad I did. 

Sometimes we get “bucked off” in ministry to others, but we must get right back to it, learn from it, and keep moving forward with our complete focus on Jesus. He might take you to a different place or ministry but you are still in ministry no matter what your present “job” might be. Sometimes you gotta ride out of the barn lot to be challenged enough to grow.

Paul is passing the reins to Timothy in the closing of his letter to him. He warns him with great love in his heart for his “son” in ministry. Paul thinks he is ready. I wonder if Timothy thought he was ready? It doesn’t matter, for God calls then He equips with all You need for the ride.

“You’re going to find that there will be times when people will have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food–catchy opinions that tickle their fancy. They’ll turn their backs on truth and chase mirages. But YOU–keep your eye on what you’re doing’ accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God’s servant.” 
2 Timothy 4, Msg

“You take over. I’m about to die, my life an offering on God’s altar: This is the only race worth running. I’ve run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that’s left now is the shouting–God’s applause! Depend on it, he’s an honest judge. He’ll do right not only by me, but by everyone eager for his coming.” 
2 Timothy 4, Msg

“God be with you. Grace be with you.” 2 Timothy 4, Msg

Dear Heavenly Father,
You invite us to Your work. You teach us through the work, which seems to be a “side affect” of helping others know You. Thank you for all the opportunities that you give us. It is such a grand privilege to know You more while serving You. Through good times and bad and even getting “bucked off” at times, You are still the One we adore, praise and worship. Thank you for lessons You keep teaching us. Help us to teach others and to know when to hand over the reins. In Jesus Name, Amen