“To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me.” — Colossians 1:29 (NIV)
I just love the Apostle Paul’s perspective on life and ministry! Notice whose energy he worked with. No, this is not a typo. Paul intentionally stated that he works with the “energy” of God that powerfully works in him. Paul understood the mystical union — that God dwells in the hearts of His saints. It is Paul who reminds us that we are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16). We do not function and work alone. We have been born again by the power of the Holy Spirit and continue to live out our lives empowered by that same Spirit.
But to what end? What is the purpose of our labor? In verse 28, Paul said “to present everyone perfect in Christ.” We labor to connect our family, friends, and neighbors to Jesus Christ. Only by faith in Jesus can one be washed by the blood He shed on the cross. Paul (we) are driven to provide the gift of God’s grace that set us free to everyone around us. This is the work of every Christian. Jesus calls and charges us to be witnesses to the redemption that He has worked in our hearts.
Today, let’s be clear as to what our task is and with whose energy and power we perform that task.
Peace!
Pastor Tom
www.firmlyrooted.church