FRIDAY March 11, 2022

Our Christian Stewardship

I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God....
Colossians 1:24-25

Paul detailed his stewardship––his ministry. He rejoiced in suffering for Christ and for the believers in the Colossian church. The ministry given to him by God was not easy. How could he rejoice in his suffering? It is hard to do that. I believe, Paul was able to suffer in his flesh because he knew how much Christ suffered on the Cross for him and for us. Jesus suffered tremendously on the Cross, being afflicted in His flesh for the church.

Notice, the Gospel is not cheap; it was paid for by Jesus’ blood. Paul took his call as a minister of Jesus Christ very seriously. He desired to fulfill his call in the power of the Holy Spirit. Paul described his sacrificial ministry in Philippians 2:17: Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all.

What about us? Do we take our stewardship as Christians seriously? Being a Christian is not easy, but Jesus Christ has given us the responsibility to become salt and light to a lost generation. If we have a good testimony, even when suffering, people will get saved.

Think of all the suffering you have had as a Christian. There is a great deal of suffering in the lives of believers who are enduring trials and temptations. How many followers of Christ have been rejected by family members? Many Christians are being persecuted all over the world!

We do not like to suffer, but what is the end result of our suffering? Suffering draws us closer to the heart of God. When temptations and trials are overcome, they bring us to an assurance of our salvation and our future with Jesus Christ (Revelation 3:21). Again, suffering results in the salvation of others, because those in this dark world can see the great light of the Gospel. They will ask us the reason for our hope in Christ.

Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.
~1 Peter 4:19~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!