Sometimes, the Gospel is served when our egos are suppressed.
It’s never pleasant when a non-Christian says or does something offensive to us.
And it’s an emotional stretch sometimes when we choose to forgo the purchase of a much-wanted item so that we might donate the money to a truly needy person or to a missions ministry of some sort.
And what about those moments when Satan is making it SO easy for us to dive head first into satisfying our “stumbling block” vice? Do we consider first the implications for our personal testimony? For our confidence of being resistant to Satan’s temptations?
Here’s the deal — our direction at every intersection of choices in life should be guided by a concern for the Gospel.
Memorizing and abiding by Colossians 3:17 helps in this regard — whatever we do in word or in actions should be directed at glorifying God.
The Apostle Paul was passionate in his purpose of building the Kingdom of God. All that he endured for the sake of the Cross and its message is an amazing display of determination.
Here is what he wrote to the church in Corinth regarding the importance of a life that puts first Christ and the spreading of the Gospel.
“We would rather put up with anything than be an obstacle to the Good News about Christ.” I Corinthians 9:12
Sometimes, people are grumpy and abrasive and hurtful toward us. It’s important that we only respond with grace and Christlike remarks. For any response fighting fire with fire will likely become an obstacle to the Gospel.
Sometimes we face the choice of cutting back on church offerings because of car trouble or a costly household repair. Are we willing to get by with patched-up yet functional vehicles and residences in order to keep tithing so more people can hear of God’s grace and connect with His Son?
Let’s become more willing to put up with anything if it’s going to protect our opportunity to share Jesus with others.
As always, I love you
Martin
