Philippians 2:17
“But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I rejoice and share my joy with you all.”
Paul has sacrificed his life for the sake of the gospel. He went on missionary journeys to share the faith. Several of the other apostles did also. Jesus sought Paul out to do so. I Corinthians 15:8 says, “and last of all, as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also.” We have no record of what Paul was up to during Jesus’ earthly ministry.
However, Paul the apostle was a very significant figure. Some have made arguments for the faith based upon Paul’s conversion and life. A person of his pedigree and education coming to Christ and spending a life time investing in the spread of the gospel. One can’t overlook him.
He had many gifts that equipped him to do what he did. God gave him a thorn in the flesh to keep him from boasting (2 Cor 12:7). Part of his gifting was his understanding of grace and justification as well as his ability to write. Much of the New Testament is from him.
He gave of himself. He describes it as being poured out as a drink offering. God wants to use all of us. We all have different gifts and He uses us accordingly. I can recall wanting to be a pastor. I spent years pursuing it. God had other plans. When my assignment ended I was glad. Bev and I were married and moved to the South Bay. I got into education. I am able to use my gifts there.
One of my biggest gifts is listening. My mom pointed that out when I was 16. I despised it then. It’s the biggest way I serve now. I got a counseling degree in which I employ it.
As Paul says he was being poured out as a drink offering. He was in big demand. That sounds tough. He rejoices though.
I am in my early sixties and still working. It’s an 80% contract. I have more free time. I love it. I am praying about using some of my extra time to serve. Hopefully we’ll be grandparents soon. I know God won’t over burden me.
Lord, thank You for using us. Thank You, also for giving us rest. Guide us and give us willing hearts.