Working... restfully =)
Pastor has been talking about the gospel of grace- we rest in God's righteousness provided for us, but are motivated by love and gratefulness to do the work of the ministry, not the other way around- working for righteousness. I love how Colossians says God will show us how to do the work when we get to know Him (vs. 10 MSG version). How cool- we get to know him, and the work gets easier because we know how to do it best, and most effectively- therefore a kind of restful work. I know my job always goes easier when I have the proper training and info needed for the job!
It goes on to say that "We pray that you’ll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul—not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives." Once again, an ode to grace- work we do out of grace is done with God's strength, not our effort.
"It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us." That strength, given for the purpose and work he has called us to leads to a bright and beautiful future. We all feel the best when we know we are working (not sitting around doing nothing for time unending), and working with a divine purpose. THAT's what God giving me the desires of my heart is all about!
God, help me to live humbly, fully dependant on your strength to do the work you've called me to out of gratefulness for your grace and mercy in my life!!!
Created about 3 years ago
