Philippians 1:7 (NKJV) “just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace.”
It’s so often convicting to me, as I gain a deeper perspective of how Paul used his time. Aside from his personality, he was always looking to fill his time with the things of the Lord. No matter where he was, he was looking for the open door to love someone in Jesus name! Paul truly took to heart the encouragement from Jesus to abide in Him!
For example, Paul was often in prison, in a horrible spot, a time that could have easily led to petty pity parties. Yet, what do we see him do? He redeems the time. He writes. He shares. He prays. There are times where I think that Paul did more in prison than I’ve done being on the outside.
Now, I’m careful not to be condemned by that thought but rather encouraged. I know that God can use me to redeem the time, to use today to serve him with all my heart. The same is true with you. Redeem the time, my friend, and use today as a day full of being in the center of God’s will!
Thanks,
Pastor Ed
Response:
I just wanted to send a note to let you know how the Lord used your message last night to encourage me at a pivotal time. I was not going to go to service last night, but my wise husband all but started the car and shoved me in. He knew I needed it even more than either of us realized. I had been feeling depressed and discouraged and pretty much ready to throw in the towel. The friendships in which I have been investing my time and my heart have not been turning out the way I had hoped. I don't have a lot of energy to spare while battling an autoimmune disorder and, quite frankly, I felt I had spent my last drop on people who who could not have cared less, or worse yet, even used me. No matter, though. Last night I was reminded that it's NOT about me. I am just the steward - none of it belongs to me. It is all about JESUS. And anything invested in another in His name, is never wasted. Who cares if that person doesn't turn out to be friend in the long run? Does it hurt a little that they don't want to invest in the friendship in return? Of course. But I know where my heart was in the first place. It was about giving of what He gave to me. Nothing is wasted in God's economy. I know this to be true. And the second I walked into the sanctuary last night and the music started and I entered into sweet worship I knew that I was being a fool. How I could I stay away from GOD when it was His people who were being the knuckleheads? Thanks for helping me to see this.
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