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1 Timothy 1:1
'This letter is from Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus, appointed by the command of God our Saviour and Christ Jesus, who gives us hope.'
The apostle Paul always started his letters by making it very clear why he was writing. He was doing so because of his calling. Everything he did was shaped by the fact that God had appointed him to be an apostle (meaning ‘someone who has been sent out’). Paul had no doubt that Jesus, who met him on the road to Damascus, was the one who had commissioned him. The letter which follows is full of warmth and affection. Paul had great respect for Timothy and wanted to give him encouragement and guidance for his ministry.
I wonder how you would describe yourself and the work that God has called you to do? Paul undoubtedly had a very special role, but you and I do as well. We have been given unique gifts by God and today he is calling us to use them to bless other people. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of you were responding to this by saying: “But I’m only a...” (fill in the blank here). Whether you’re a homemaker, shop worker, nurse, teacher, cleaner, barrister or accountant, it doesn’t matter. Paul would tell you that, in God’s scheme of things, the words “I’m only a...” simply don’t work. Everybody and every role is crucial. What matters is that we know God’s hand is upon our lives. What we do is of infinite importance. While working in your shop or office today, God may give you the opportunity to show his kindness to someone who is feeling knocked about by life. In your school, he may enable you to show love to someone who is feeling rejected and lost. In your home, you may be able to bring his peace. I don’t know what God will call you to do today, but I do know that we are all appointed to live for him and to share his hope wherever we go.
Question: What has God appointed you to do today?
Prayer: Loving Father, thank you that you have called me to serve you today. Please help me to give my best to you in whatever I do. Amen
Released on 21 Sep 2022
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