Today’s reading: Acts 20:1-21:36
My selection: Acts 20:24
But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
My reflections: This is the classic statement by Paul of his view of life. He has done what Jesus commanded, to not save his life in this world. He thinks of his life as a resource only for the purpose of fulfilling the ministry given to him by the Lord. He is clear about what that ministry is: to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
Notice what the Lord said:
24 Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. 26 For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life? 27 For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done. Matthew 16:24-27
My challenge: How can any believer not be completely challenged by this statement? How do you view your life? Do you jealously guard it against any unpleasant demands or do you offer yourself as a living sacrifice to Christ each day (Romans 12:1-2)? How do you view your purpose for life? Are you vague about what God wants you to do or do you have a clear vision of His calling and the gifts He has given you to use for His glory?
Take time to pray and think about what God has called you for today. Take steps to bring your actions and attitudes in line with His purposes.
Tomorrow’s reading: Acts 21:37-24:27
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