"I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 3:14

Sitting down to write this devotional I received an email from a director who was struggling with criticism of the ministry. The complaint came through an anonymous phone call not only to her but also to a local newspaper.

As would happen with all of us, it caused some questioning on her part. Had she truly made a mistake? Was she on the wrong track?

Through that phone call, this director joined a special club. Other members include Moses, David, Nehemiah, Peter, Paul, and of course, Jesus.

When Nehemiah built the wall, critics were everywhere, telling him he could not get the job done. Yet he pressed on through the discouragement. Jesus — Who gave all He had for our freedom — faced detractors throughout His ministry.

We are reminded then of Paul's constant reminder to press on through the struggles. In today's world we are told so often to "let go and let God" — which in itself is true—we don't want to forget that we are also exhorted to push on to give all that we have as we leave the results to God. No, we're not responsible for results; yet we are responsible to give all that we have — every day.

I know something about the director who sent me the email. I've seen her in person. I watched a crowd at her banquet — as she stepped on the stage to share insights about the ministry — suddenly erupt in a standing ovation to honor her humble service. Even later, a previous director told me of the great heart of this director. There is no doubt in my mind she is on the right track.

It was no surprise then, that I received this email. Those on the cutting edge of ministry are most likely to get hit by anonymous critics. It is the enemy's last attempt to tear someone down; to use discouragement and false — and in this case, even irrelevant — attacks to discourage and slow down a Christian warrior who is taking ground.

Are you subject to discouragement? If so, you too are in the club. Paul's response? Pressing on, going forward so that the Kingdom might advance. The path to greatness in the Kingdom is marked with spiritual battles, challenges and yes, criticism. When we experience any of these, we can be sure we are on the right track.

I passed on that message to the director who emailed me. That message goes out to all of us as well. Let's keep the faith and press on. The Kingdom is worth the effort.

Reprinted by permission from Servants of Excellence, a LifeTrends publication. If you'd like to know more about the resources provided by LifeTrends that can be used to encourage your volunteers, educate your Board and reach your supporters, or if you're looking for a great speaker for your next banquet, contact Kirk Walden at kirk.walden@comcast.net.