"I am grateful to him who has strengthened me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he considered me trustworthy in appointing me to the ministry." (1 Timothy 1: 12)
Jesus Christ is the source of ministry. He is the one who calls. Before He calls us, He knew very well our resume. He will give us all that we need to succeed.
"Be compassionate as your Father is compassionate." (Luke 6:36)
Compassion and mercy are key attributes of God. Jesus says to us: "Be compassionate as your Father is compassionate." Is it possible for us to be compassionate as God? It is possible if we give compassion in the same measure as we receive it. As we experience the mercy and love of God, we are to give the same for other.
"Always be thankful." (Colossians 3: 15)
Why should I be thankful here and now?
The 7-Wy plan is on course.
"We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose." (Romans 8: 28)
Great scripture! Great word of knowledge! Tremendous word of comfort!
What are the "all things" working for good for me here and now? My mind thinks immediately of the 6 war zones:
If only I can exercise my faith in the God's word of promise in Romans 8: 28! O that I may hear His voice speaking to me now through Romans 8: 28 and not harden my heart.
"Unless your faith is firm you shall not be firm." (Isaiah 7:9) Lord, grant me a faith that is firm, firm enough to believe always that all is well, all shall be well and all manner of things shall be well.
"When day came he summoned his disciples and picked out twelve of them; he called them apostles." (Luke 6: 13)
The twelve men chosen by Christ stayed with Him the whole time till His passion and death. They listened to His teaching and saw His miracles. They ate with Him and relaxed with Him. After the resurrection, He instructed the now eleven men to wait for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Before the descent of the Holy Spirit, they elected a man to take the place of Judas. After the Holy Spirit descended on them, they were ready to perform the work of Apostles. They were now sent forth to take the good news to the whole world.
We have the same Holy Spirit as the apostles. Lord Jesus, where do you want to send us today? Grant us a hearing heart and a docile spirit to respond fully to you tofsy.