Pastor Mike Miosi is the Executive Director of Spread of Grace Ministries, which seeks to establish strong local churches in underdeveloped countries. Today, they bring together people to equip and train national workers in the most rural and neglected areas of the world to study, believe, and preach the Bible. Find out more about SGM here
"No matter where you are, going back and digging into the depths of the gospel of the glory of Christ is always a good thing. Even though you might think that you have it straight in your head theologically, going back to the gospel will fuel. It'll be like pouring petrol into fuel into the tank."- Mike Miosi ( Spread of Grace Ministries)
Fueling Pastoral Resilience: Key Insights from Mike Miosi
In this episode of "Fueled Pastoral Resilience," Mike Miosi shared profound insights on resilience in ministry, drawing from his extensive experience and deep faith. Here are some key highlights from this conversation:
The Foundation: Gospel of the Glory of Christ
Fueling Resilience: Mike emphasized that true resilience in ministry is fueled by the gospel of the glory of Christ. Even when theological understanding seems solid, revisiting the gospel provides renewed strength and motivation.
Philippians 1:21: The verse "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain" is central to Mike's calling and perspective on ministry, particularly in the face of suffering.
2 Corinthians 5:14-15: Christ's death for all means that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for Him who died and rose again. This life-for-life exchange motivates service to Christ.
Ministry and Suffering
Call to Suffer: Mike highlighted that suffering is often a part of the call to ministry, echoing Paul's experience. Recognizing this helps in persevering through trials.
Personal Trials: Mike shared deeply personal stories of significant suffering, including the loss of loved ones, his son's cancer, and other overwhelming challenges. These experiences shaped his perspective and deepened his reliance on Christ.
Fellowship of Sufferings: Suffering allows one to experience the fellowship of Christ's sufferings and understand the power of His resurrection. It is a process that refines and strengthens faith.
Suffering as Grace: Paul speaks of it being granted not only to believe in Christ but also to suffer for his sake. This perspective shifts suffering from a burden to a grace.
Practical Aspects of Resilience
Prayer Warriors: The importance of having a team of prayer warriors was stressed. Mike shared instances where he felt protected and sustained through the prayers of others.
Community and Support: Having a supportive spouse and children, as well as a community of believers, is crucial for enduring the challenges of ministry.
Gospel Thick Skin: Developing a "gospel thick skin," as Paul advises Timothy, helps in navigating accusations and difficulties in ministry.
Remembering Jesus Christ: In times of struggle, remembering Jesus Christ and what He has done is the ultimate source of strength and resilience.
Divine Contentment: Learning the secret of divine contentment, as discussed in Thomas Watson's work, helps in finding peace and satisfaction in all circumstances.
Miosi's Ministry: Spread of Grace Ministries
Training Rural Pastors: Mike's passion lies in training rural, international pastors to study, believe, and preach the Bible. This ministry addresses a significant need for theological education in remote areas.
Matthew 9: The verse about the harvest being plentiful but the laborers being few is a driving force behind Mike's work. He emphasizes the need for more laborers and prays for God to send them.
Discipleship Plan: Spread of Grace Ministries is developing a deeper discipleship plan to provide ongoing mentoring for pastors.
Key Takeaway
Mike Miosi's story is a powerful reminder that resilience in ministry is not about personal strength but about relying on the glory of Christ and understanding that suffering is often a part of the journey. By staying rooted in the gospel, finding support in prayer and community, and remembering Jesus Christ, pastors can endure and thrive in their calling.1
Notes generated from transcript by Gemini
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