Recently, I was traveling on two mission trips. I met some modern day heroes for the cause of Christ. Some run schools or orphanages. Others run deaf ministries, or build water wells. Their stories of struggle and hardships overcome by faith and God’s goodness are certainly inspiring. You wouldn’t know any of it by just looking at them. I think that’s what it was like with the apostle Paul. Somewhat ordinary, but he had credibility from an amazing life led by Christ. When I became a Christian, I had no idea what a great adventure it would be- He has led me to five continents, holy places, slums with extreme poverty, and most important friendships with wonderful believers. I haven’t suffered anything close to those I have met. They certainly have street cred.
Are they servants of Christ?—I am speaking as if insane—I more so; in far more labors, in far more imprisonments, beaten times without number, often in danger of death. Five times I received from the Jews thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, a night and a day I have spent adrift at sea. I have been on frequent journeys, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my countrymen, dangers from the Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers at sea, dangers among false brothers; I have been in labor and hardship, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. Apart from such external things, there is the daily pressure on me of concern for all the churches. 2 Corinthians 11:23-28 NASB
What work is God doing in me right now as I try to follow His will and His way? What gratitude can I express for the amazing journey God has made of my life?
God, as this day begins- I may not have much ‘street cred’, but I do have a great appreciation for Your faithfulness and the wonderful life You’ve given and led me through. I pray today, I can reach out and love someone in Your name as I grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus as this Colson Fellows conference.
