Acts 20:24 NIV
[24] However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
Dear God, I first read this verse 31 years ago. It was fall of my senior year in high school. I had committed myself to learning more scripture, and, although I don’t remember how I found this passage, this was one of the first ones I memorized. I should note that the project didn’t live much past this and scripture memory is not one of my strong suits.
I wish I could say I have lived this verse out more. I guess I have to some extent. I’ve been willing to make some sacrifices based on what I feel like you are calling me to do. I think I’ve also been able to use it to shun prosperity Gospel preaching and even the kind of “God’s gonna getcha” preaching that some pastors do. Why is there suffering in the world? How can people do such evil things? If I’m suffering, does that mean I’ve lost your favor? Well, this sentiment from Paul reminds me that I shouldn’t ask these questions from the perspective of my own welfare or the welfare around me. I need to ask myself, what task has Jesus given me?
Father, my first task is to testify about you, your love, your grace, and your call to repentance. My second task is to respond to what you have for me to do. Today, I am going to meet my new mentee for the first time. Help me to do that in your strength and power. Tomorrow, I’ll be talking to the ministerial association about early childhood development and therapeutic nursery for traumatized children. I also have a board meeting this morning when I will have an opportunity to inspire them and help give them a sense of your calling to them as board members. So I consider my life worth nothing to me. I only want to finish the race and complete the tasks you have given me—even if it costs me everything.
In Jesus’ name I pray,
Amen
Emails to God 