Before God Called Me to Preach
E.A. Johnston reflects on the personal struggles and divine calling that shaped his journey to preaching, emphasizing faithfulness amidst rejection and inner conflict.
In "Before God Called Me to Preach," E.A. Johnston shares a heartfelt testimony of personal rejection and the profound calling that led him into ministry. Through candid reflections and scriptural insights, Johnston encourages believers to trust God's plan even in moments of loneliness and doubt. This sermon offers hope and inspiration for those discerning their own divine purpose.
Full Transcript
The night you turned me down still remains so real to me. The pause for loss of words seem like eternity. The love you stole from me, I'll never know how good it was.
The loneliness I could not share was all my own though you were there. Saving yourself for yourself just seems a game, I'm sorry. Good night, dear lady, the party's over now, it's late, I must return.
Back to my hero, you can always find me there. My mixed emotions make me care. My mixed emotions make me care.
My friends would laugh at me if they knew my fantasy. You teased me all along, pretending that you wanted me. Cold water in my face awakened me to your parade.
I'm not so easily fooled. I dropped a step to talk with you. Saving yourself for yourself just seems a game, I'm sorry.
Good night, dear lady, the party's over now, it's late, I must return. Back to my hero, you can always find me there. My mixed emotions make me care.
My mixed emotions make me care.
Sermon Outline
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I. Personal Struggles and Rejection
- Experiencing emotional pain and loneliness
- Dealing with unfulfilled expectations
- Recognizing the impact of rejection on faith
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II. The Call to Preach
- Understanding God's divine calling
- Responding to God's invitation despite doubts
- Embracing the responsibility of ministry
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III. Faithfulness Amidst Challenges
- Trusting God's plan in difficult times
- Maintaining spiritual integrity
- Finding hope in God's promises
Key Quotes
“The night you turned me down still remains so real to me.” — E.A. Johnston
“Saving yourself for yourself just seems a game, I'm sorry.” — E.A. Johnston
“Back to my hero, you can always find me there. My mixed emotions make me care.” — E.A. Johnston
Application Points
- Trust God's timing and plan even when facing rejection or loneliness.
- Remain faithful and obedient to the calling God places on your life.
- Allow personal struggles to deepen your reliance on God and strengthen your ministry.