Posted by In recent years I hear believers lamenting the limitations placed on their liberty to share the gospel. In each case they become discouraged when they should be encouraged! I believe that too much focus is placed on what we can or cannot do.
Our focus should always be on God’s purpose and our commission to accomplish it as He’s equipped us to. God’s grace is sufficient for us to carry out that which He’s called us to do.
Paul writes, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:8-10
Here we see an example of the sovereign purpose of God directing the focus thus the responsibility of the Church, in any environment. We were chosen for a purpose and invested with the gifts and talents suited for our calling! All we have to do is listen for God’s guidance and timing, and follow the Spirit’s lead.
Jesus modeled this lifestyle of only doing what he saw the Father doing, and saying what the Father gave him to say. He reminded those who heard him that his doctrine was not his own, but his Father’s who sent him. Coming to do the will of the Father directed Jesus’ focus, as the Lord’s prayer directs ours.
Knowing that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose, is the only path to a fruitful life and ministry.
In Colossians 4:2-4 we read “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.”
Paul’s words to the Church at Colosse aligns with the purpose behind our calling regardless of the career path he’s given us. Whether we’re accountants, educators, musicians, civil servants, or pastors, we are in ministry. Paul asks for prayer that God will open doors of opportunity to tell his story, and so should we.
God’s word revealed will illuminate the darkest recesses of our heart. The light from God’s word put into practice, will sharpen our mind, strengthen our soul, and transform our character.
To arrive at the intention for which the biblical writers were inspired to write what they did, we must have the Holy Spirit, who originally inspired them, to unfold those words to us; allowing us to gain entry into the very intention of God’s heart concerning us.
When God’s intentions become our intentions, then, no weapons formed against us shall prosper. Walking in Christ’s purpose for us is always profitable and fruitful regardless of the circumstances we may face.
When it comes to walking in alignment with God’s purpose, He promises to go before us to prepare the way in which we should go. Hence, Paul’s request to pray for God to open the door that no man can shut!
Once you make the decision to walk with the Master of your circumstances, your circumstances will no longer be your master.” -JSP
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