Early morning, Monday. Got to head to Missoula today for an 8:30 meeting of planners for the Bible Training Center of the Rocky Mountain Bible Mission. It's the first of a series of meetings leading up to the Rocky Mountain Shepherds' Conference. Here's Paul's next thought.
I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. 1Tim 1:12-13b
Following the first command in v. 3-4 to stay and instruct then making several comments in support of that, the next thing Paul does is thank Jesus for his ministry. And Paul is particularly grateful considering his former lifestyle. Who among us shouldn't be as grateful? I lived my first 36 years battling God.
I can't say I actively fought as Paul had, but I was nonetheless an active player in the world... sinning without remorse. When I consider His decision to choose me, I cannot help but thank Him. Often wondering, "Why me." And then... why place me in ministry?
The answer comes when I consider the fruit of His work through me. Salvation experiences, discipleship, leadership, ministry of the Word, worship, fellowship, teaching, etc. My one regret and an area I still need to work on is my ministry here in my home. Please pray for me as I strive to minister more effectively to those closest to me.
Through His example, Paul is reminding us as ministers to say thanks to a mighty awesome God.
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