For those who know they are called, the cardinal requirement is diligence in study of the word and praying for discernment regarding instructions to deliver to your hearers lest you cast your pearls before dogs to trample upon. 

Take the cue from Matthew 7:6-11 (TPT) a scripture that is mostly quoted out of context.

“Who would hang earrings on a dog’s ear or throw pearls in front of wild pigs? They’ll only trample them under their feet and then turn around and tear you to pieces! (therefore, concerning what you offer by way of teaching) “Ask, and the gift is yours. Seek, and you’ll discover. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. For every persistent one will get what he asks for. Every persistent seeker will discover what he longs for. And everyone who knocks persistently will one day find an open door. (This is the requirement for those who are called) “Do you know of any parent who would give his hungry child, who asked for food, a plate of rocks instead? Or when asked for a piece of fish, what parent would offer his child a snake instead? If you, imperfect as you are, know how to lovingly take care of your children and give them what’s best, how much more ready is your heavenly Father to give wonderful gifts to those who ask him?”Matthew 7:6-11 (TPT)

Proverbs 9:7-9 (TPT) further admonishes:

If you try to correct an arrogant cynic, expect an angry insult in return. And if you try to confront an evil man, don’t be surprised if all you get is a slap in the face! So don’t even bother to correct a mocker, for he’ll only hate you for it. But go ahead and correct the wise; they’ll love you even more. Teach a wise man what is right and he’ll grow even wiser. Instruct the lovers of God and they’ll learn even more.

Therefore, do not waste time offering something valuable or something that is helpful to those who will not appreciate or understand it. Do not correct people who are like dogs or swine, people who are unwilling to accept correction, who will respond with hostility. Pearls formed from brokenness and suffering—symbolise the perfection of the kingdom of Heaven. Why would what you have obtained through brokenness be despised because it does not fit their belief? So, heed Paul’s counsel to Timothy in our text:

Timothy, my dear son, live your life empowered by God’s free-flowing grace, which is your true strength, found in the anointing of Jesus and your union with him! And all that you’ve learned from me, confirmed by the integrity of my life, deposit into faithful leaders who are competent to teach the congregations the same revelation. 2 Timothy 2:1-2 (TPT)

Those who want to know will ask and receive as promised in Jeremiah 33:3 and Isaiah 58:11a. Heed this charge and you will be satisfied that you are cycling in the narrow boundary. Shalom.

Pastor Afolabi Oladele