GOSPEL PAIN

Colossians 2:1  I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. (NIV)

Paul is not ashamed of his personal struggling as a servant of the gospel. Everything which is worthwhile will involve some kind of suffering (the word used here is 'agona'). Examinations, athletics, construction and school teaching - they all have rewards when done excellently, but they will all involve struggle and suffering. Much time is sacrificed, skills are painfully refined, outcomes are clarified, strategies are devised, problems are anticipated; and everything is committed to the task irrespective of the cost - because the outcome is important.

Gospel ministry has added dimensions, and is a spiritual battle. Although it is ultimately God's work, He uses our bodies, hearts and minds ... which will take the strain and pain. In addition even Paul was struggling with his old sinful nature (Romans 7:14-25): he was conscious of Satan's attacks (2 Corinthians 2:11), his missionary travels brought him into conflict with people and exposure to many dangers (2 Corinthians 11:23-29): his prayers for the believers were intense and draining (Colossians 1:9): and he accepted that suffering was a normal part of authentic faith in Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:29-30). But why did he advertise his struggling? He wanted them to understand that the sufferings of Christ were so valuable that any struggle in making Him known is supremely worthwhile (Romans 1:16).

Our struggles can never atone for our sins; they are the privileged mark of those who share in God's family business. However, many Christians prefer the easy lifestyle options offered by the world, embraced by the flesh and orchestrated by the devil. For them the 'hope of glory' is an insurance policy, their commitment is to themselves and their principal objective is pleasure (or at least, the absence of pain). Every other legitimate call on their time and energy (family, work, money) is given priority above serving Christ. But wherever sacrifice is real, service for Christ becomes genuine: and the value of the cross becomes transparently wonderful. So, you see, your spiritual priorities are directly measured by your willingness to sacrifice yourself for them. It is time to assess what should really matter!

Prayer:  Dear loving Lord. Thank You for all You have done for me. Thank You too for those who have taken time and trouble to help me come to Christ, and to grow in my faith. But I am ashamed that my practical gratitude is so poor. Although You have sacrificed so much for me, and others have freely given love to me, I often avoid any struggle for You or those You want to reach with Your love. Forgive me for such wrong priorities, and help me to determine to serve You better, as I change my priorities to fit with Your agenda for my life. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
 
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