THURSDAY October 26, 2023

Be Unmovable

“And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”
Acts 20:22-24

Paul spoke with an open heart to the elders in Ephesus. He had served them with humility, not in pride. He worked among them with tears and through many trials. He had poured his life into the lives of many believers in Ephesus. He taught them and, from among them, raised up leaders whom he had trained. He loved them! If anyone had anything against him, they could step forward, but there was no one. Paul remained blameless in ministry. He had absolutely no self-interest––he was other minded.

Paul from experience knew ministry was not always easy. The elders of Ephesus needed to understand just how difficult ministry could be. Why? Not everyone wants to hear the Gospel. Sometimes people become angry, aggressive, and resentful toward Christians who are sharing the love of Christ. They often retaliate.

Paul had experienced trials, horrible beatings, and, on three occasions, he nearly died. Yet he was not moved because he was fully committed to Jesus Christ. Besides, the Lord had already warned Paul that chains and tribulations awaited him. He would lay down his life for Jesus Christ. He would not deny Christ; he would be unmovable in his faith. Paul kept the joy of his salvation, and he was ready to finish his race. His ministry touches my heart so much. I want to be like Paul.

Think about it. Paul has poured his heart out to us. We learn from his life to serve God in humility and love. To have compassion for the lost––to testify to them about the grace of God. When was the last time you shed tears over the lost from within your own family? Paul’s life challenges us to be unmovable––to finish the race and ministry entrusted to us.

...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
~Hebrews 12:1 NIV~

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