Even though Paul defended his apostleship in his letters to Christians at Corinth (1 Corinthians 9:2; 2 Corinthians 3:1), he still made it clear his work was not based on merely his own abilities. (i.e. 1 Corinthians 2:1-4) In his second letter, Paul made it clear with whom his sufficiency in ministry rested where he wrote. . .
“(5) Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, (6) who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” (2 Corinthians 3:5-6 ESV)
To be engaged in the ministry of the Lord is an awesome thing. However, where are we focusing on the sufficiency for our labors in the Lord? Have we begun to glory in what we perceive as our own developed abilities or are we remaining humbly open to the power of God being at work in and through us? (Philippians 2:13) To experience some feelings of insufficiency in engaging in ministry can be a good thing, but not if it stops us from seeking ways to serve, but rather turns our focus more toward God to make us sufficient for the good works He planned for us as His workmanship to walk in. (Ephesians 2:10) Therefore, remembering it is His work with His ends in mind, may we graciously accept the privilege of the role He calls us into as we trust His sufficiency to serve to His glory and praise!
Have a great day TRUSTING THE EQUIPPING OF GOD FOR ENGAGING IN HIS WORK!
Carl
