Paul had been called to be an Apostle. (1 Corinthians 1:1) He had been given a second chance after being a persecutor of the church. (1 Timothy 1:13-16) He focused on the greatness of God’s grace toward him and accepted its sufficiency as he urged others to accept it as well. (1 Corinthians 15:9-10; 2 Corinthians 12:9; 1 Timothy 1:15-16) In great gratitude to the Lord, Paul engaged in the ministry to which he was called in a sacrificial manner. (i.e. 2 Corinthians 12:15; Philippians 2:17; 2 Timothy 4:6) And though we might consider him a “super-apostle” (as noted for others 2 Corinthians 11:5; 12:11) — as the signs of apostleship had been evident in his life (2 Corinthians 12:12) — Paul humbly steered the focus away from himself. Even though he had experienced much, he stated. . .
“(6) though if I should wish to boast, I would not be a fool, for I would be speaking the truth; but I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me.” (2 Corinthians 12:6 ESV)
What a contrast between his pride as a persecutor (Philippians 3:5-6) and his humility as a preacher of the Gospel of Jesus! Paul had developed a heart for keeping the focus off of himself to attract the attention of others toward Jesus and His saving and sustaining power! As I look at the example of Paul I have to ask myself how am I doing at that! Am I ever getting in the way of the message? Am I thinking more of myself and trying to draw more attention there than I ought? May the Lord help me to serve in such a manner that the focus of others is directed beyond myself to rest on Him, as I unboastingly live true to His calling in gratitude for all He has done!
Have a great day KEEPING SELF OUT OF THE WAY TO POINT TO JESUS, THE WAY!
Carl
