Paul’ life was amazing. Once he saw a light from heaven, was thrown to the ground, and heard the voice of Jesus (Acts 9). He also was caught up to heaven and heard words that are so powerful that man is not allowed to speak them (2 Corinthians 12). He spoke to kings, healed the sick, raised the dead. His writings have resonated around the world and changed millions of lives. How did he do that?
2 Corinthians 6:4, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in difficulties, 5 in beatings, in imprisonments, in mob attacks, in labors, in sleeplessness, in hunger, etc.
Paul’s life wasn’t comfy cozy. But isn’t that what we pray for everyday? Is that what is most important to us? There is a large crowd of believers on a slow walk to their new life in eternity, and plenty of fellowship can be had on that walk. Slow walking is wonderful for chatting. There are also runners making strides in the work of Kingdom of God. Runners do not chat a lot, but they cover a lot of ground. Is it possible that we could make our last days big in the Kingdom? Or are we destined to just fade into quiet obscurity? It seems there are very few that have grasped the realization of God’s present power and glory through the Spirit, and that they are fully capable of running full steam to their last day in this life.
Would we be willing to go through difficult, even physically painful circumstances to have the fulfillment of the Kingdom in our lives? Or is comfort more important? Paul wrote out of painful personal, and church circumstances, but his writing has changed generations of people. Are willing to volunteer for such a ministry?
Are we Okay with being just okay? I believe great rewards are for those willing to endure great sacrifices. If life here is only temporary, let’s get to work!
Blessings.