“And He personally gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, for the training of the saints in the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God’s Son, growing into a mature man with a stature measured by Christ’s fullness.” Ephesians 4:11-13 (HCSB)
Living for Christ can seem hard, even impractical at times. We tend to focus on what we can do to earn our way to God, rather than accepting His free gift of salvation and allowing Him to work through us.
When Christ died on the cross, He paid the price for our sins so that we would be free from sin and death. The barrier that separated humanity from God was literally torn; we no longer stand separated from Him. In fact, He has sent His Holy Spirit to live in us, guiding us to Him, showing us the heart of the Father.
The beautiful thing about committing to serving and obeying Jesus anytime, anywhere, at any cost, to do anything, is that He gives us what we need to live our lives for Him and for His glory. This includes being given gifts of a spiritual nature, such as prophecy or teaching, evangelism or pastoring. Consider what it would be like if each member of the body of Christ, His Church, actually recognized and used his or her gifts. Think of the depth of faith that would be realized, or how the church would be unified. Not to mention how God would be glorified!
This is how we are to live our lives practically for God: recognizing our gifts and how we can contribute to the body of Christ. Then we will be the light on a hill, the salt of the Earth.
Father, thank You for Your gift of salvation. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and let Your gifts come alive in me so that You may reach the lost and build up Your Church. For Your glory, honor and praise. Amen.
By Rev. Daniel Forster
Used by Permission
FURTHER READING
Afraid but Following – by Marilyn Ehle
What is Following You? by Gail Rodgers
Hunger for God – Follow Your Hunger – by Francis Frangipane