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11 For I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not man’s gospel. 12 For I did not receive it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ. 13 For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it; 14 and I advanced in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and had called me through his grace, 16 was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not confer with flesh and blood, 17 nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia; and again I returned to Damascus.

18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. 19 But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. 20 (In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie!) 21 Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cili′cia. 22 And I was still not known by sight to the churches of Christ in Judea; 23 they only heard it said, “He who once persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” 24 And they glorified God because of me.

We are reminded through Paul’s words that the Gospel is not a human invention, nor is faith something we achieve by effort or merit. By the grace of God revealed in Jesus Christ, Paul was completely redirected. His past became a testimony to the transforming power of God’s love and mercy. What changed Paul was God’s call!

God works in our lives—often quietly, sometimes suddenly—shaping us for His purposes even when we cannot yet see it. I don’t know about you, but for me I realize this when I’m reflecting on the past. Our changed lives, our growing trust, and our willingness to serve all points beyond ourselves to the One who calls, forgives, and sends us.

Dear God, we thank you. By grace alone, You continue to reveal Your Son in us, so that others may come to know You. Let us never forget this. In Your Son’s Name we pray. Amen.

Deborah Schroeder-Saulnier

deborah@excelleadershipsolutions.com

 

Prayer Concern: For all to remember we are here for Him … “our hands, His work!”