This saying is trustworthy: “If anyone aspires to be an overseer, he desires a noble work.” 1 Timothy 3:1
The word “aspire” indicates a strong desire or ambition. In this verse it is an aspiration toward a spiritual calling. It means to stretch out for something, reach after, or desire something.”
Are we called to ministry or do we aspire to ministry? I think the answer is yes. The language and examples of calling are seen throughout Scripture. I believe a call to ministry will be accompanied by an aspiration to ministry.
I refer to the aspiration to ministry as “the want to.” Let me explain by relating this to my own personal call and aspiration. I remember when I felt called to ministry through a series of circumstances and experiences, that it was accompanied by a strong aspiration. I thought about the church and the ministry constantly. It consumed me in some ways and was, indeed, what I wanted to do with my life at that point. There have been many ups and downs through the years of ministry, but my calling and aspirations have never faltered. They are stronger than ever.
So, how might we describe the aspiration to ministry?
The aspiration to ministry ministry
The aspiration to ministry is accompanied by obedience. When God calls you, you need a surrendered heart and a willingness to do what He says to do.
The aspiration to ministry (pastoral ministry) is evidenced by prayer and teaching. As indicated in Acts 6:4 the role of the pastor is to be driven by prayer and ministry of the Word. If we are not praying and ministering the Word we are not being faithful.
The aspiration to ministry is exercised by serving others. We are in the people business. People are not interruptions, they are why we do what we do in the day to day work of ministry.
The aspiration to ministry focuses on making disciples and doing the work of the kingdom. We need a desire to glorify God in our immediate context and among the nations.
I would argue that if the aspiration to ministry, “the want to” is not there, then a call to ministry is missing as well.
