April 3, 2013 (Judges 16-17; Psalm 89; 2 Corinthians 3)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Clearly, you are a letter from Christ showing the result of our ministry among you. This “letter” is written not with pen and ink, but with the Spirit of the living God. It is carved not on tables of stone, but on human hearts.” 2 Corinthians 3:3 NLT
Observation: Apparently some false teachers had started carrying around forged letters of recommendation to authenticate their authority. In no uncertain terms, Paul stated that he needed no such letters. Paul also recognized that his qualification was from God, not men, so he didn’t need their approval or recommendation. He claimed the people he had preached to that received the message of Christ would serve as his letter. The way their lives were transformed by the message of Christ would be all the recommendation he would need. Paul fully expected the people that professed faith in Jesus to become new. Their hearts were to be changed and the proof of this event in their lives was the new fruit they would produce.
Application: The lives that are being changed and surrendered to God are the results of a successful ministry. These lives serve as a letter of recommendation for the ministry and the minister. Would your pastor or church be highly recommended, or does the letter you write really bring disgrace? The letter we write is not written with pen and ink, but rather by the way we live our lives. This letter is not carved on stone tablets but rather it is written in our heart. From the abundance of our heart our mouth speaks and we act. Our actions display what our heart contains. Clearly you are a letter from Christ showing the results of those that have ministered unto you. So, what kind of letter is your life writing?
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Strengthen me today and touch my body. Help me write the proper letter of recommendation today. Let my life be a witness of the wonderful change Jesus makes in ones life. Help me live the way You desire. May the letter of recommendation I write bring honor to the church and minister that nourishes me. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me everyday, in Jesus name, Amen!