Saturday, 20 September 2014
Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you. 1 Corinthians 9:23
Summing up his thoughts of the previous four verses, we read Paul’s reflection on why he became “all things to all men“. He’s already said that it was that he “might by all means save some.” But for him, there is a wondrous bonus tied into that notion. By doing this “for the gospel’s sake” Paul knew that this would make him a “partaker of it with” those who heard and believed.
And isn’t this the burden on our own hearts for those we love? Don’t we longingly desire that the people we share our daily lives with will also share heaven’s glory with us? Paul looked even beyond his close associates and relatives and desired this for all men. He knew that he was once far off from the Lord and that only through his calling on the road to Damascus was his salvation possible. He looked for that same heartfelt conversion in others.
Life application: As you pass by people on the street, do you take the time to think “that is a person created in God’s image.”? Isn’t every person of equal value when it comes to sharing Jesus? Even our enemies can be changed. Try to have Paul’s attitude and realize that sharing the good news is something we should do at all times and with all people.
Heavenly Father, don’t let me be timid in telling others about Jesus. Keep me from shying back for whatever silly reason pops up in my mind. Instead, fill me with boldness to speak out this wondrous message which can change the eternal direction of others. I know that someone took the time to tell me and I’m grateful for it. Help me to remember this and to act on it Lord. This I pray that Your kingdom will be filled to overflowing! Amen.