SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 3:7-13
“I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.”
OBSERVATION
In this passage, the Apostle Paul is explaining to the Ephesian Church God’s ultimate purpose for redemption that includes salvation for Gentiles in His perfect timing. Although Paul described himself the least of God’s people, whether it was from his past or how he viewed himself, God used Paul in a mighty way to build, lead, and edify emerging churches. God was glorified through Paul’s humility and weaknesses as he mentioned to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 12:10). Paul later points to what Christ accomplished on the cross which grants freedom and confidence to all who believe and have faith.
APPLICATION
We who placed our faith in Jesus Christ are servants and children of God and a part of God’s plan of redemption that Paul is describing. Paul considered himself the least of God’s people but was used by God to accomplish much. Paul did not place confidence in himself but God alone to accomplish the plan that God had laid out, and it is God who strengthens Believers to carry out the impossible if it according to His will. Whether God is drawing us to be in ministry, outreach, discipling someone, or serving others, it is easy to look for negative outcomes that may discourage us, but if God is leading us, we cannot fail. We may have trials and setbacks, but that is a part of life and learning. Sometimes, the tough times will bring us closer to God and experience Him in a mighty way which strengthens our faith.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, I thank You for strengthening us when the times get difficult. I thank You for choosing, saving us, and allowing us to be a part of Your plan of salvation. I pray that we can lean more into Your strength and not our own. Help us to place our confidence in You for every step that we take, Amen.
- Darrence Hamilton
