Daily Devotion, June 21, 2022

 

Devotion:

Read Romans 15:18-21.

Paul writes to the church in Rome to encourage them to share the Gospel. He encourages them by sharing what he has done as an ambassador. He says his ambition was to share the Gospel wherever it hadn’t been shared. He was single-minded in his focus, boldly fulfilling his God-given purpose. Instead of looking out for himself and working hard for personal advancement, he was passionate in his service of God.

We see Paul as a pioneer choosing “to preach the gospel where Christ was not known.” He was a trailblazer preaching the Message of Jesus all the way from Jerusalem far into northwestern Greece. He is quick to give God credit for all that he accomplished. Paul writes of all that Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit did through Paul in order to reach the Gentiles for Christ.

Paul makes the point that while he has fulfilled his evangelizing work in those areas, there is still work to be done by the new Christians resident in each place. God’s work continues when each Christian continues the good work that those who’ve gone before us do.

We too are called to spread the Gospel of Jesus using our own passions and gifts. It is also our calling to connect with those who do not know Christ, so that we can share his good news with them. Might it be our time to get out of our comfort zone in order to reach the lost for Christ? Let’s ask God for the passion and courage to become pioneers for him as we cut a new trail reaching out to non-Christians. How might that look in your world? Do you have unsaved neighbors, co-workers, friends, or family members who need to hear God’s message of forgiveness, love, and hope? Pray for opportunities to share with them God’s goodness. Consider inviting them to worship with you, attend your small group, or be part of one of the many special events we host at Christ Church. Let’s begin to consider ourselves as Christ’s ambassadors as we reach out to the lost.

Personal Worship Option:

Paul understood his purpose and used his passions to fulfill it. What are your passions for God? Are you living in your purpose? Ask God for a holy and passionate calling and the strength and courage to fulfill it.