April 5, 2013 (Ruth 1-2; Psalm 53, 61; 2 Corinthians 5)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too.” 2 Corinthians 5:11 NLT
Observation: Paul explains the importance of the responsibility we’ve been given when we become Christians. We become ambassadors for Christ representing Him by the lives we live. It is our duty, and responsibility, to tell others about His gospel of grace. We work hard to persuade others to come back to God. The entire ministry God has given us the privilege of taking part in, is the ministry of reconciliation. We must be sincere in our faith. We must take it serious and to heart. We must act in a way that proves we believe what we profess. We must live in a way that others can see Christ in us.
Application: Our “fearful responsibility to the Lord” does not mean we are always worried about God striking us dead. In fact just the opposite is true. The fear of the Lord is simply expressing the seriousness of our respect for Him. We understand that all must stand before Christ to be judged and that all will receive whatever they deserve for the good or evil they have done in this earthly body. Keeping that in mind, we forget those things that are behind us and we press on ahead reaching out for the prize God has laid before us. Salvation is a free gift from God no doubt; however this free gift comes with great responsibility. Responsibility we have the privilege of sharing in.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for the privilege of repentance. Thank You for the honor of living for You. Thank You for the opportunity to take part in proclaiming Your gospel of grace. Revive a spirit of fearful responsibility within me. Fan the flame of fire You have planted within my soul. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me everyday, in Jesus name, Amen!