I find myself, on occasion, reflecting on the nature of preaching and teaching, especially when I’m preparing to step into a pulpit or lead a discussion. Like most people, I desire to do a good job, to deliver a message that is impactful and true to the word of God. However, I often grapple with inner doubts and a sense of inadequacy. I’ve had experiences where the anointing of God was palpable; I felt a profound peace, confidence, and certainty in the word I was delivering. The message seemed to flow effortlessly, aligning perfectly with my intentions, plans, and prayers. But then there are times when it’s just the opposite. There have been nights before a teaching when I’ve been in agony. I remember one specific instance where, the evening before I was to speak, my notes seemed incoherent, even to me. My attempts to reorganize my thoughts were futile, and I was left with a sense of disarray. The next morning, despite fervent prayers, the message felt like a struggle, and I was left feeling drained, lacking the energy, mental clarity, and passion I believe we ought to bring to the task of teaching.

It is during these moments of weakness that I find myself returning to a fundamental truth: all human beings experience a sense of weakness, even, and perhaps especially, the most gifted among us. If you consider yourself average, why would you think you would be excluded from the wrestling with doubts and anxieties? This is particularly relevant for those of us engaged in teaching, whether in a formal setting like a church or a more informal one like a home group. When you are dealing with topics of great importance, like the sanctity of human life, biblical ethics, and the call to rescue, you want to hit a home run each time you present the information, but that is probably not going to happen.

A Biblical Foundation

In these moments of weakness, I find solace in the promise found in Isaiah 55:10-11:

“For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there, but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it”. This passage is a cornerstone for all who preach, teach, and write about God’s word. It is a reminder that the power is not in us but in the word itself. God’s word has its own power. It brings conviction, boldness, and promises; it converts the heart and soul, even when we are at our worst.

The Example of Charles Spurgeon

One historical figure that provides me with significant insight and comfort is Charles Spurgeon. Known as the “prince of preachers,” Spurgeon is widely recognized as one of the greatest orators in the history of the church. He assumed pastoral responsibilities at a church in London at just 19 years of age and led a great revival in London in the years 1858-1860. His biography is an amazing story of a supremely gifted and anointed young man with a very passionate faith in Christ and strong leadership abilities. Yet, even Spurgeon, a man of such exceptional talent and influence, battled depression throughout his life. Perhaps this struggle with depression was a divine gift, keeping him humble despite his success. He died young from gout and other related complications and often confessed a sense of weakness and depression. If such a gifted man struggled with these issues, it is clear that they are a common human experience and not a sign of personal failure.

The Ongoing Work

With Spurgeon as an example, we need to remember this promise whenever we proclaim God’s word. We must prioritize preparing well, doing our very best, praying fervently, preaching boldly, and teaching clearly. Our primary confidence is not in our own ability, but in the power and the love that God has for his own word. God’s word is sent to us to convert the soul, transform our minds, and help us to follow God’s calling with determination.

This understanding motivates us to support church leaders and equip them to understand God’s word and develop their teaching skills. For instance, we seek to enable every pastor to confidently and logically address the moral crisis of abortion and the biblical call to rescue. This mission extends to various parts of the world, such as Cuba, where Pastor Sandy is traveling to teach teachers about the sanctity of human life, the shedding of innocent blood, and the forgiveness of God. Similarly, a team of pastors is working in Zimbabwe, Liberia, and other parts of Africa, teaching these very same things. I’m confident that all of them wrestle with the same issues that I wrestle with.

Conclusion

Our real comfort is in the fact that we are not alone in our struggles, and that God’s word is powerful, even when delivered by weak and rambling preachers like me. Let’s trust in the word, pray for its power, and continue in the calling that God has given to us. It is the foundation of our boldness and our comfort on our weakest days.

This article is adapted from the episode transcript.