The Cost Of Service
Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” - Acts 21:13
Some time back I clipped an article from the newspaper that told the story of a young woman, Karen Watson, who had gone to Iraq to serve as a missionary. While there she was killed when her car was ambushed by insurgents. Here is a paragraph from the article:
Watson, 38, was aware of the danger. In a letter to her pastor that was meant to be opened in the event of her death, she wrote: “To obey is my objective. To suffer is expected. His glory will be my reward.”
The apostle Paul could not have said it better, and he did say, “I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”
Paul, like Karen Watson, had a vision of a higher calling. A person cannot deny himself until he gets a vision of a higher calling – and that is to be the norm for believers.
These servants of God discovered that once committed to the Lordship of Christ there is no returning to the lordship of self.
We must live with the realization that our old way is dead and buried. Our life is now hidden in Christ.
Prayer: Lord, I am challenged today to live as Karen Watson:” To obey is my objective. To suffer is expected. His Glory will be my reward.” Grant me the grace to live it out. In Jesus name, amen.
Message: The apostle Paul had a vision that was beyond hope in this life alone. That vision caused him to deny himself, endure persecution, and look toward eternity. A person cannot deny himself until he gets a vision of a higher calling – and that is to be the norm for believers.
Affirmation: I am committed, like Paul, am I am willing to endure all that I must go through in order to fulfill His purposes for me.
Reflection: Countless men and women have given all so that we could have the privilege to be participants in the abundant life of the kingdom of God. Are you willing to commit unreservedly to the kingdom?
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