How can we prepare ourselves to be "workers" in God's harvest field? The Call to the Harvest “Then He said to His disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest.’” (Matthew 9:37-38) Jesus’ words reveal a ripe field and a worker shortage. Our preparation matters because people’s eternal destinies are tied to this harvest. Step 1: Seek the Heart of the Lord of the Harvest • Prayer is the first assignment, not the last resort. – “Ask the Lord of the harvest.” (Matthew 9:38) • Continual, specific intercession aligns our desires with His. • As we pray, He often turns us into the very workers we request (Isaiah 6:8). Step 2: Cultivate a God-Centered Character • Repent of known sin (Psalm 139:23-24). • Walk in daily obedience (John 14:21). • Exhibit harvest-friendly fruit—love, joy, peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22-23). • Credibility grows when our lives match our message (Philippians 2:15-16). Step 3: Sharpen Our Understanding of the Gospel • Know it: “Christ died for our sins…was buried…and was raised” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Handle Scripture accurately (2 Timothy 2:15). • Be ready to explain hope “with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). • Memorize key verses for clear, concise witnessing (Romans 3:23; 6:23; 10:9-10). Step 4: Clothe Ourselves with Spiritual Power • Depend on the Holy Spirit: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you” (Acts 1:8). • Put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) for protection and boldness. • Maintain spiritual disciplines—Bible intake, worship, fellowship—to stay fueled (Acts 2:42-47). Step 5: Practice Availability and Obedience • Adopt Isaiah’s posture: “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8). • Interruptibility—being willing to change plans for divine appointments (Acts 8:26-40). • Steward every sphere (home, work, neighborhood) as part of the field (Colossians 3:17). Step 6: Engage in the Field Together • Jesus sent disciples out “two by two” (Luke 10:1). Partnering: – Encourages perseverance. – Provides mutual accountability. • Plug into a local church’s outreach; synergy multiplies impact (Hebrews 10:24-25). Putting It All Together Preparing as workers means praying earnestly, living authentically, knowing the message, relying on the Spirit, staying available, and laboring in community. When we align with these biblical priorities, the Lord of the harvest positions us for fruitful service and sends us into fields already white for gathering (John 4:35-38). |
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