"Therefore, seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not." 2 Corinthians 4:1 (KJV)
Our role, title, job description, reputation, witness, and testimony as a "Christian" is the ministry Paul is referring to. Everything that entails your life after Christ falls under the umbrella of "this ministry" that Paul speaks of. We are ambassadors for Christ. Ministers of the gospel. Mouthpieces for Jesus. His hands. His feet. His bride. We've been given beauty for ashes. Riches for rags. Life for death. We've been given all this because of His great love.
This business of preaching the gospel, in word and in lifestyle, isn't easy. It's hard. It's hard to do it in any environment, especially in your marriage. But ironically, Paul writes under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, that the service that is set into motion when we say yes to Christ is the mercy we receive from Him. We don't have to serve Jesus, we GET to serve Him. Sinners who have sinned and savored the memories of that sin get to speak on behalf of Purity in its purist form. It's exhausting some times to think of ALL that we have to do as believers, but Paul knew that first hand which is why he wrote one of my favorite phrases in all of scripture: "We faint not." That's the best rendering of that line for me. The thought is we don't give up, or we don't lose heart. No matter how hard it gets - and it will - because of the great mercy and love God has bestowed upon us, WE FAINT NOT.
Use those three words on the devil this week. Stay encouraged!
Hey David,
Just wondering when you're gonna update your blog. This last post was written on my anniversary so I know it was a long time ago. I know that there are so many things on your heart, especially during this time of the year. Start sharing. :-)
Love you!
Terecita
Posted by: Terecita | Tuesday, December 09, 2008 at 10:15 PM