Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. (2 Timothy 1:11-14)

Every man is called to do all the good he can, but some men are set apart to labor in peculiar departments of Christian work, and they should be doubly careful to do all in their Master’s name.

If a ship were stranded and breaking up, and the crew were ready to perish, we are all of us authorized to do all we can to save the shipwrecked, but the men who belong to the lifeboat’s appointed crew have a right to come to the fore and take the oars and put out to sea.

They are authorized to lead the way in daring and danger. So, my brethren, those of you who have felt the divine call within you, the scared impulse that compels you to devote yourself to the salvation of your fellow men, you may do it boldly and without apology.

Your authority is from Christ, for the Holy Spirit has set you apart for the work. Let no man hinder or dispirit you. Press forward to the front rank in self-denying labor. ((Charles Spurgeon, At the Master’s Feet [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005], June 3.))

Charles Spurgeon

Further reading

• RICK WARREN, MICHAEL HORTON, AND DOING THE DANIEL DIET
• CHUCK SWINDOLL POINTS US TO ROMAN CATHOLIC MYSTIC HENRI NOUWEN…AGAIN
• CHRISTIAN, YOU ARE NOT ON A PICNIC