Gospel Words AND Gospel Deeds

As I read Paul’s letters I am continually challenged and convicted by his total abandonment to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul was single-mindedly focused on communicating the gospel to people, regardless of the price to him.   In 1 Thessalonians 2 we have more examples of this kind of devotion and abandonment. Please take a moment to read this paragraph and allow the words to wash over you: 4 But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. 5 For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness. 6 Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ. 7 But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. 8 So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. 9 For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. Paul says he and others were not only pleased to impart the gospel but also “our own lives”. Paul gave up everything for the opportunity to share the good news of Christ. He toiled “night and day” and yet had the attitude of gentleness as a “nursing mother cherishes her own children.”

May the same be said of you and me. May we understand the gospel and see its value so clearly that we both say and do whatever is necessary to communicate it to those who have not believed and to nourish those who have.  Pray today that you will take advantage of every God-given opportunity you have today to speak about and live for the gospel of Jesus Christ.