“This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and from our brother Timothy.” (Colossians 1:1)
Who is the most unlikely person you’ve ever met to become a great leader for the Lord and His Church? Among our Celebration Church Pastors, some lived very ungodly and unhealthy lives before coming to faith in Jesus. But as a result of surrendering their lives to the Lord, their sins were forgiven, and they were freed from their addictions, anxieties, bitterness, depression, fears, hurts, etc. And they’ve gone on to live vibrant and victorious lives and lead others to do so.
The man we know as the Apostle Paul was a very unlikely person to become a leader in the Christian faith and Church. He was very committed to the Jewish faith that he had grown up in, so much so that he led the effort to persecute people who were turning from the Jewish faith to become followers of Jesus Christ (Acts 8:1-3). But on the road to Damascus, this man, then known as Saul of Tarsus, had a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ, and a few days later, he was healed by the Lord and filled with God’s Spirit (Acts 9:1-18). After some mentorship from others, he became a great Christian leader, preacher, missionary, and writer. In fact, one third of the writings in the New Testament were written by the Apostle Paul as he was inspired to do so by God’s Spirit.
Paul’s and our Pastors’ stories remind us that the Lord can change every person's life, circumstances, and relationships if they fully surrender their lives to Him and become devoted followers of Jesus. So, what changes need to occur in your life during these 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting and in the weeks and months that follow this time? Remember, the Lord can forgive anyone for anything. And remember that He is in the people-loving, prayer-answering, life-changing business.
Prayer - Lord, during these 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting, I want you to show me the changes that need to take place in my life so I can be all You’ve called me to be and do all that You’ve called me to do. I want You to use me like You’ve used Paul and others to make a great difference for good and for God in our world.
Reflection - What do I need to learn from God’s Word and Spirit during these 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting? And what changes do I want to see happen in my life, circumstances and relationships in the days ahead?
