Scripture to Read: Romans 15:28
We have learned over the last several months, and even examined it more closely over these last few days, how Paul had this desire to go to Rome and meet his brothers and sisters in Christ. We all have had ministry opportunities offered to us where we had to say no because we were already involved in another ministry God had placed us into. As Christians, we will ALWAYS have opportunities to serve our Lord because that is what He’s designed us to do (Ephesians 2:10, Titus 2:14, Titus 3:8, Titus 3:14), but we should never be surprised when numerous opportunities open because others invite those who serve well to come alongside them and serve with them too. We must ask our Lord for His discernment so that we never leave a ministry we are involved in simply because we’ve been invited to another ministry opportunity. That is why we need to read what God had Paul write in Romans 15:28, “Therefore, when I have finished this, and have put my seal on this fruit of theirs, I will go on by way of you to Spain.” I know it’s written here in black, but let’s not miss it. God had Paul write that Paul would not plan on getting to Rome until he had “finished” the ministry God called him to be a part of in delivering the gift to the believers in Jerusalem. Ministry is always about finishing the work God first called us to fulfill. Though our feelings pull us in another direction, we must always finish well.
Challenge & Application
You know you have been called to ministry, so what ministries are you serving our Lord in and if you’re not serving, why not?
How do you guard against getting over-extended in ministry so that you finish well where God has placed you?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!