“Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me.” (1 Corinthians 9:16, 17 NIV84)

I absolutely love these verses from Paul. They give us a glimpse into his spiritual heart to see what makes him tick. After his conversion, he immediately began to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ and never stopped. What kept him going? What kept him on such a feverish pace? God did! That’s right! Paul stated clearly that he was compelled to preach. He didn’t do it voluntarily, but involuntarily, like one doing his duty. I can so relate to what Paul is saying. Ever since I converted to the Christian faith at age 17 I haven’t been able to stop talking about Jesus. I mean, I have to. It wells up inside me and I feel like I might explode if I don’t have an avenue to let it out. I know teachers, preachers, nurses, businessmen, and others who feel the same way — like they must do something for the kingdom of God or they’ll explode.

How about you? Is God pressing in on you? Is He pushing you toward an area of your life that is uncomfortable and scary? If so, respond to it. Go with it. Most likely the Holy Spirit is compelling you into service. He wants you to know what your place is in the body of Christ and begin to respond to His push. It is good and right to be moved and directed by the Holy Spirit. May we each find our place in the Body of Christ and follow the Spirit’s lead as He compels us into service.

Peace!

Pastor Tom

www.firmlyrooted.church