Charlie Chaplin, a famous comic actor, used to write all of his lines on paper before going on stage, although he had performed in front of crowds many times. Even after he was somewhat accustomed to his work in broadcasting, whenever he went on stage, he felt nauseous as if he was seasick. British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, who left many wise sayings, also vented his mental sufferings by saying that it would be better to be the commander of a cavalry than to speak in front of people.
Such influential people, who dominated the world in their time, had their own hardships. What do you think was their secret to overcoming difficulties and achieving success? The secret of their success was to make the most of their opportunities rather than to avoid them just because it was difficult to do so. They realized that the best way to overcome their difficulties was to accumulate experiences.
Faltering lips, a fearful mind, a busy life . . .
We all have our own difficulties in carrying out the mission of preaching the gospel. However, the best way for us to overcome the difficulties is to boldly jump into an opportunity when it is given to us, instead of hesitating with the thought that it will be difficult. Thankfully, there is a helping hand for us, which leads us to success by enabling us to make the best of our opportunities for the gospel. It is the Holy Spirit of the latter rain that God pours out on us in this age.
We must firmly grasp the opportunities for the gospel, which God has put before us, so that we can all receive blessings reserved for us in the kingdom of heaven.