The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart, and a good conscience and a sincere faith (1 Timothy 1:5).
Pastor, like Paul and Timothy, you operate as one charged by God. The word means instruction, but with more closeness and authority. God is not distant; he’s close. And he doesn’t suggest; he commands. When you open the Bible, it is as though God walks right up to you, puts his hand on your shoulder, looks you in the eye, and tells you what he wants you to know and what he wants you to do.
There is peace in submitting to God’s charge. It means you don’t have to wonder what you should do each day. You don’t have to go with your gut and then lay awake at night asking yourself if you did the right thing. You don’t have to lose your mind chasing the often contradictory preferences of your people.
Minister according to God’s charge and you’ll be a tree with strong roots. You’ll be a boat with a heavy anchor. You’ll be tethered to the unchanging wisdom and purpose of God. The winds can push against you and the seas can surge around you, but you’ll be secure.