I am the only son of my parents, with two sisters. My parents raised us well—the best they could—in a sacrificial manner. I received Christ in 2003 and began learning to live for the Lord. I hadn’t known disrespect all my life until I entered the ministry. I was often praised by people everywhere because I was known to be smart, diligent, and respectful. I self-taught my way into becoming an Information Technology professional after high school. I personally labored to acquire five world-class professional certifications. For those familiar with IT, I am certified in CCNA, CCNP, CCDA, CCDP, ITILv3, and Linux Redhat. At 21, I got my first teaching job and became the first to teach Cisco Certifications in the entire Northwest region of Cameroon, earning a relatively significant pay. At 22, I got my second job as a Network Support Administrator. At 23, I got my third job as an expatriate. At 25, I started my IT service provider company, focusing on training and consultancy. All these years, I was highly respected among my family members, friends, and admirers. However, around 2012, I began losing a significant part of the respect I once had—first, for choosing to yield more fully to the Lord’s call. Naturally, many would think I had lost my mind. And surely, I had—for God. I lost everything material, from money to clothes and gadgets. I could only afford a “Nokia Touch,” which I used to send motivational text messages daily to my contacts. Some appreciated it, while others thought I had gone crazy. During this time, I served as a youth leader at our church. As I moved into full-time commitment to serve the Lord, things worsened. My parents, siblings, and some friends saw it as the end. From a human perspective, I went from grace to ground. At one point, I slept on the floor of my office for seven months—without a mattress, just a pillow. My parents were unaware, and I had decided not to tell them. Honestly, I never murmured or complained. Sometimes, I felt I could have done better, but I was more satisfied having nothing yet being in God’s will. During this season, I prayed more, studied more, and continued teaching the Word of God. It was a season of “shame”—you who had everything now had nothing in the name of answering God’s call. I couldn’t go to certain places because I knew I’d meet people who’d ask questions I didn’t know how to answer. I lost my little pride. Yet, I was joyful and comforted by the testimonies of those who heard me teach the Word. The grip of worldly ambitions and human praise gradually loosened on me. Long story short, the Lord who called me has been faithful. Today, by His grace at work, we have a thriving church family, seven books in print on leadership, ministry, and spiritual growth, over 300 songs, and thousands of lives saved, blessed, and prospering in Christ. God is who He says He is and will show Himself faithful to those who put their trust in Him. The ministry today still carries many opportunities for disrespect. The difference is that it is now for Christ’s sake. I believe I would have had more opportunities to be highly respected among men had I maintained my professional career only. However, that was not possible in ministry. The blessings come with persecution and abuse in a manner I wouldn’t have easily accepted had I not been in the ministry or in the faith. Leadership subjects you to scrutiny—even by those who don’t know their left from right. Ministry humbles you and makes you accept what Jesus Himself was subjected to. It places you in situations of ridicule by the very people you are sent to serve and help—all because you choose to live for He who is greater than all. Now this verse makes perfect sense: Luke 14:26:“If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.” To God be the glory. Be encouraged to live for Christ Jesus daily. — Pastor Daniel Nyah ~ TheChristianLife