Are You a Plodder?
Bob Yandian
Colossians 1
vs. 7 “As you also learned from Epaphras our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf.”
Have you ever heard of Epaphras? He was the pastor of the church at Colosse. We are not told the size of his congregation, the number of satellite locations he has, or the attendance in his youth group. We do not know if he had a cell group program or a traditional Sunday School. This is what churches are known for in our day. We are only told one thing, he was faithful. His name was not known well in the ancient world. If Paul would not have mentioned him, we probably would never have heard of him. It didn’t seem to matter to Epaphras, he remained faithful.
One Step At A Time
A faithful person is a plodder. A plodder keeps moving each day, driven by the Word of God and the personal integrity in their heart. We are told we will reap in due season if we don’t faint. A plodder is one who will not faint. He never has and never will give up. Unlike many others, he does not gain great amounts of ground at one time. Yet, when others have given up, thrown in the towel, the plodder is still going.
When I attended Bible School I was one of 35 students who graduated. I was the only one who did not have a ministry position to fill. All 34 of the other students had sent out resumes and were accepted into pastorates and missions organizations, or their itineraries were already full to speak at churches. I continued to work at my job, study the Word, and teach my class at church. During the next ten years, my life changed drastically with God increasing my call. I ended up as a teacher and finally the dean of instructors at Rhema Bible Training Center. I was also prepared in my heart for the call to pastor. God had already spoken to me. I went back for our ten-year reunion at the Bible School I had attended and was surprised to find less than ten graduates were still in the ministry. So many excited students had left for the work of God, but most had dropped out of the race.
Finishing Is More Important Than Starting
Many begin a race. Beginning is the easy part. Finishing is difficult. Many who begin with a flash will never make it. They bask in the limelight of popularity, but when the popularity diminishes, so does their stamina. The plodder draws from the wells of inspiration he has in his own heart. He has developed a personal relationship with God and will continue whether anyone stands with him or not. He knows that God will never leave or forsake him.
Examples of Plodders
It is said that at the time Billy Graham first entered the ministry, he was one of four who were well known. He was also considered the least likely to succeed because he was not as fiery of a speaker as some, and not as handsome and charismatic as others. Yet, Billy Graham outlasted them all. He built his ministry on character, not Bible knowledge, anointing, or spiritual gifts. It is not that all of those characteristics are not important, they are just not as important as faithfulness. Another word for a faithful minister is a plodder.
By the time Paul wrote 2nd Timothy, he mentioned that all who began with him had forsaken him at his first trial (2 Timothy 4:16). By the time his death sentence was given, only Timothy and Luke were with him. In prison, waiting to be executed, he asked Timothy to bring the scrolls and parchments of the Word (2 Timothy 4:13). Plodders may be hurt by those who leave their side in the ministry, but they draw their strength to continue from the everlasting Word of God.
Even Jesus saw all of his disciples forsake him during his trial. Only John returned and stood by him at the cross.
The important thing is not who starts, but who finishes. Finishing is much more difficult. That is why many are at the starting line, but only a few cross the finish line. God is not so interested in how many begin with Him. He is more interested in how many finish. This is reserved for the plodder. Remember, the one who won the race was the tortoise, not the hare. Your due season is coming, don’t give up!
Bundle and save! Includes a copy of Theology Simplified Volumes 1 & 2.
Theology Simplified Volume 1
A Practical Guide to Foundational Biblical Truths
Basic doctrines are not difficult but easy to understand. They often come disguised as complicated or deep-sounding words, but the definitions are simple.
Pastor, author, and renowned Bible teacher Bob Yandian explains the deep truths of Scripture in ways anyone can understand. Using straightforward vocabulary and down-to-earth examples, Pastor Bob makes complex theological concepts clear and practical.
Theology Simplified demystifies eight crucial doctrines of the Christian faith:
Redemption Justification Sanctification * Reconciliation
Predestination Election Propitiation * Glorification
These eight precepts, essential for all believers to understand, come to light as you study the pages. Theology Simplified will give you a deeper understanding of the finished work of Jesus Christ, allowing you to walk in maturity and stability in your Christian life.
160 Pages - Paperback
Theology Simplified Volume 2
Uncover the Depths of God's Word with Ease
The Bible is full of misunderstood terms and concepts. Many Christians struggle to understand the deeper meaning behind the scriptures they know and learn. What is God’s plan for mankind? Are you living fully in Jesus’s redemption? Do you understand the Church’s true purpose and God’s perfect timing?
Finding these answers can be simple! You can unearth the profound treasures of your redemption, awaken to the glory of your righteousness, and claim the abundant rewards destined for you.
Drawing from decades of biblical research and practical teaching, renowned Bible scholar and teacher Bob Yandian demystifies eight complex theological concepts, inviting you to discover the profound simplicity of God’s plan for humanity.
In his trademark clear and relatable style, you’ll gain a confident understanding of:
The doctrine of theology: A roadmap for understanding God’s Word
The fall of man: The turning point of human history and God’s plan for restoration
Faith for salvation: Your key to unlocking the kingdom of heaven
Unlimited atonement: The boundless extent of Christ’s reconciling work
Advocacy of Jesus and the Holy Spirit: Your endless support in the court of heaven
The seasons and times of God: Discerning heavenly plans in our chaotic world
The triumphant Church: Your place in God’s victorious plan
The Book of Life and heavenly rewards: The eternal ledger of the redeemed
Shake off the stress of academic doctrine and embrace the confidence that comes from knowing God’s redemptive plan for your life. These eight truths will guide you to a new depth of understanding and fellowship that will forever change you.
180 Pages - Paperback
Have you ever sinned and felt like you failed God? Have you gotten off track in your walk with the Lord? Bob Yandian examines the life of David and breaks down Hebrews chapter 6 in this significant teaching. In this series you will learn how to receive forgiveness, forgive yourself, and "Get Back in the Race."
Message Titles:
David's Repentance
Getting Back on Track
2 MP3s / 2 Lessons / MVL28
Whether you’ve just accepted Jesus or want to revisit the core truths of your faith, Starting Strong will help you lay a foundation that lasts. In this easy-to-follow guide, Bob Yandian unpacks seven powerful truths every believer needs to know—and live by.
Straight from the Word of God, this book covers:
• What it really means to be born again
• How to be filled with the Holy Spirit and pray in tongues
• Why water baptism and communion matter today
• The power of laying on of hands for healing, blessing, and impartation
• How praise and worship open the door to God’s presence
• And why the Word of God is your anchor in every season.
These are more than just doctrines—they're the fundamentals of the faith. And when you know them, practice them, and build your life on them, you'll walk in stability, confidence, and purpose—no matter what life throws your way. Start your walk with God on the right foot. Start strong—and keep going strong.
(69 Pages - Paperback)
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