Paul was man of drive, focus, and unbridled passion; all which was used for evil before He met the risen Jesus. As a man, then named Saul, he had an encounter with the promised Messiah and was from that moment forever changed. Yet Paul didn’t cease to be that man of laser-like determination and conviction; it was the object of how he used his gifts that changed.
From seeking to destroy those of “The Way” to becoming wholeheartedly devoted to the God of that way, Paul was a persister at it’s finest and a man God used mightily for His glory.
We too can become and unstoppable force for the Kingdom of God. What we typically lack is direction.
Unfortunately, the modern-day church has made it difficult to know what our ultimate goal is. Too often being a Christian is equal to being a good moral person who goes to church — and I’m not even sure what the goal is that they’re shooting for.
Self-righteousness, probably.
But Paul, man he KNEW where he was headed in life! He knew why existed and with every breath he moved toward his goal.
Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God’s grace, which was given me by the working of his power. To me,though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things, (Ephesians 3:7-9, ESV)
Paul knew why he existed — to preach the riches of Christ and bring to light the great and gracious plan of God.
You may not feel like you have specific calling on your life, but you do. If you are a child of God then the goal of your life is to glorify Christ with every breath that you breath.
It is certainly a daunting task, but it is not one we do alone. Just as Saul received the Holy Spirit after his encounter with Jesus on that dusty road 2000 years ago, we too have the enabling power of God’s spirit within us.
We don’t lack the power, we lack a focused direction.
Where are you headed today? Does it involve a desire for the glory of God and the spreading of the message of His grace? What are the distractions that keep you from using how God has made you for His glory?
I just LOVE my #hmglories group. Thanks so much! Just linked up about Paul 🙂
Yay! Some stellar ladies in the #hmglories group!
I absolutely loved what you talked about Paul today, Katie! Even before I knew about the Fall Challenge, I was struggling with this very thing! My 26 year old daughter has always been very quiet, very soft spoken. Don’t get me wrong she is quick witted and has a great sense of humor. But it’s her soft, gentle tongue, can I say her meekness? that makes the Love of God shine through! That being said my struggles seem to more often be with the bridling of my tongue. Of course more so during a sports program, an argument, sometimes after I’m wronged or even when so and so did this or that. It’s not as bad as it may appear and certainly not often, but that doesn’t matter to God! I will still be held accountable! When I share the Gospel a lot of times The Spirit of God inside is not well with “me”. And I need to take a good look at ALL aspects of my life! I want so much, like Paul, to be so focused on Christ, that nothing else in life could ever distract me! I need to speak with a soft spirit, not quick to anger, not to judge or speak harsh on others. Speak The Good News and edify those around me! I have to focus so I can run this race to win!
I am so glad to have discovered this community! There are no words to express what this week has meant to me. Thank you for hosting.
“Unfortunately, the modern-day church has made it difficult to know what our ultimate goal is. Too often being a Christian is equal to being a good moral person who goes to church — and I’m not even sure what the goal is that they’re shooting for”. YES. YES. and YES. So thankful that God loves us as people–each different, but with gospel goal in mind.
Hi Katie, I just discovered your site and podcast a few days ago and I love it! I’m a Christian since 3 years but I walk very close with God since about the beginning of this year! I can’t get enough of God’s Word; I’m so hungry for Him and I want to get to know Him on a intimate relationship basis. I’m doing all sorts of Bible Studies online! I’m not sure yet what God’s plan is for me and I wanted to ask you:” Did you study theology at uni or did you teach youself over time as you certainly have the gift to minister to others!?!
Welcome, Claudia! I appreciate your encouragement.
I have not taken any classes, beyond a few hours of credits I have through my training time with Cru years ago. I love to study the Word and I find it a privilege to teach and train others.
Glad you found the blog and podcast. Praying it encourages!