Morning QT #1
Acts 20:24
“But none of these things move me nor do I count my life dear to myself so that I may finish the race with joy and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus to testify to the gospel of the grace of God”
This verse struck out to me out the bible and called out my name. When Paul says none of these things - he is talking about verse 23 - the tribals and tribulations he is facing and will face - he is not moved by them. NOT MOVED. I look at my life and I’m constantly moved by trials and tribulations. When something doesn’t go the way I want it - my body’s first reaction is to start crying and then my brain looks for things to blame.
Secondly “nor do I count my life dear to myself” - Paul does not have personal goals and dreams that he holds onto. He has nothing holding him back to earth - this means he is willing to give up his life for Christ. As much as I say “God use me for your will” - but when God tells me to give up something that is dear to myself… I don’t listen and fight for these small things.
Thirdly “Ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus Christ” - Paul did not chose what he wanted to do in his life.. He received the ministry he set out to do.
Lastly, his ministry/mission statement “to testify to the gospel of the grace of God”. This ministry that he received from God was clear and concise. He didn’t have a life goal to be happy nor have a successful career nor be blessed with a family but a life of constant accusations and anger from those who did not believe.
LORD, I want to receive from you the ministry that I need to do in my life. I want to have a mission statement that glorifies you and fulfills your plan for my life. God use me for your will - I say this with nothing holding me back. There are many things that I used to hold dear to my life … Lord I give it all to you. I feel a change in my heart and my soul is filled with joy and peace. During this time of trials and tribulations … I pray that I will NOT BE MOVED. Please equip me with armor of the holy spirit that I may continue to glorify you with my life.
AMEN.
