MY ASSIGNMENT

“It is because we know this solemn fear
of the Lord that we work so hard to
persuade others. God knows we are sincere,
and I hope you know this, too.”
2 Corinthians 5:11
New Living Translation

The Apostle Paul’s ministry is marked by great passion, zeal and perseverance. He endured persecution on every level possible, yet he remained vigilant and determined to share the good news of Jesus Christ. Paul declared that he was set for the defense of the gospel (Philippians 1:7, 17) and, that he never “shunned to declare the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). Paul was commissioned to be ‘a light to the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the farthest corners of the earth’ (Acts 13:47). He persuaded the Gentiles to come to the faith and exhorted them to remain in the faith.

Paul’s motivation for preaching the gospel was not for selfish gain, but rather he was ‘compelled by God to do it.’ In Acts 20:22-25, he prepared himself to go to Jerusalem knowing only that the Holy Spirit warned him that suffering and jail awaited him regardless of the city and furthermore that he would lose his life. Paul’s assignment was paramount. He said “But my life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus – the work of telling others the Good News about God's wonderful kindness and love” (Acts 20:24). He was so convinced and determined to fulfill his mandate and assignment, he said, “How terrible for me if I didn't do it" (1 Corinthians 9:16)!

Paul’s assignment was to persuade others to believe and accept the glorious work of Jesus Christ. He allowed nothing and no one to dissuade him because he was persuaded and thoroughly ‘convinced that God was able to guard what he had entrusted to Him until that day’ (2 Timothy 1:12). Paul entrusted his very life into the care of Almighty God. He was ready to be poured out (2 Timothy 4:6) and even willing to be ‘forever cursed – cut off from Christ! – if that would save his kinsmen’ (Romans 9:3).

What is your assignment? Are you ready to go all the way to complete the assignment? What is motivating your mandate? Self-glory? Fame? Fortune? Or, is it the love of Christ. Are you allowing something or someone to deter or impede your progress from completing your course? Determine today to not let anything stop you from completing your assignment for the kingdom of God.