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If Jesus didn’t try to do ministry without prayer, rest, and the Father’s direction—why do we think we can? Throughout his time on earth, Jesus showed us how to live, serve, and lead in deep connection with God. Instead of leaning on charisma, polished programs, or clever teaching hooks, he prioritized intimacy with his Father.

Here are five crucial ways Jesus modeled ministry for us—and how we can follow.

1. Jesus Prioritized Intimacy Over Activity

Mark 1:35 paints the picture: “Very early in the morning, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.”

Even though he was God, he chose to live in communion with the Father. Prayer wasn’t just an example for us—it was his lifeline. As Martin Luther once said, “I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer.”

Reflection: Do I value who I am in Christ more than what I do for him?

2. Jesus Trusted the Father’s Timing and Will

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed, “Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). He showed us that even when obedience was costly, God’s plan was better.

Corrie ten Boom reminded us: “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”

Reflection: Am I asking God to bless my plans, or am I submitting to his?

3. Jesus Spoke Only What the Father Gave Him

John 8:28 records Jesus saying, “I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me.” He wasn’t chasing trends or entertaining crowds—he was rooted in the Father’s words.

Charles Spurgeon captured it well: “Visit many good books, but live in the Bible.” Our ministry must flow from God’s Word, not our personalities or clever strategies.

Reflection: Is my ministry an overflow of my personal walk with Jesus—or is my walk dependent on my ministry?

4. Jesus Found His Identity in the Father’s Affirmation

Before he ever preached a sermon or performed a miracle, the Father declared at Jesus’ baptism: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). His identity was secure before his ministry began.

Like professional athlete Justin Fields recently testified, daily time in Scripture reshaped how he viewed himself—freeing him from living for others’ approval.

Reflection: Am I seeking a “well done” from people, or from my heavenly Father?

5. Jesus Glorified the Father Above All

At the end of his ministry Jesus prayed, “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do” (John 17:4). His motivation was never self-promotion but pointing everything back to God.

As the Westminster Catechism puts it: “Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.”

Reflection: Whose glory am I really living for—God’s or mine?

The Model for Ministry

Too often we study only Jesus’ words while neglecting his methods. Books like Four Chair Discipling by Dan Spader help us see how Jesus discipled others—not just what he taught.

The truth is, Jesus succeeded where Adam failed. He showed us how to live dependent on the Father through prayer, trust, submission, identity, and glory. If we claim to follow Jesus, we aren’t just called to repeat his message—we’re called to live as he lived.