Day 257
Isaiah 15:1-18:7; Galatians 1:1-24; Psalm 58:1-11; Proverbs 23:12
An Audience of One
“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” – Galatians 1:10
“What do you want to do when you grow up?” My father asked me that classic question when I was about sixteen and driving him on an errand. I cannot recall my answer, but I’ve never forgotten his reply: “You’re gifted. You’re meant for something important. Whatever you do, don’t waste it.” That challenge has stuck with me for 35 years and through two career changes. I will carry it the rest of my life. I don’t ever want to disappoint my dad. And he caused me to expect the best of myself.
I grew to realize that my father’s loving counsel was an earthly reflection of the singularly important goal of pleasing God in every aspect of life. God wants us to recognize the gifts He has given us and to prosper in following His will in faith, family, work, and leisure – every aspect of our lives. In order to do that, we must have a good and reliable grasp on the nature of God and His will. Paul gave everything to ensure that we could.
Embracing the true gospel of Jesus Christ as shared by Paul and the other apostles is of first importance. Learning to share it faithfully in word and action – all things – pleases God.
The Rev. Tim Nunez