It becomes tempting for those of us in the ministry to strive to do things that gain us acclaim in the eyes of others. However, this is not the example that Jesus set for us. Often, our words and actions produce a path paved with a paucity of platitudes. However, we face the reality that doing God’s will does not always bring us new friends. Indeed, it often brings quite the opposite.
The "Well done" I ultimately need to hear is from Jesus Christ Himself (see Matt. 25: 21).
"Lord, help me stand for you—even if I must stand alone. May I always realize that when others, even my friends and colleagues, turn against me, You are my ever-present Help in my time of need."