The Apostle Paul encourages us to “be watchful in all things, endure afflictions,…fulfill your ministry.” (cf. 2 Timothy 4: 5)

Paul penned this letter during his second Roman imprisonment -knowing he would soon be executed.  Other than Jesus Himself, no one else has gone through afflictions like Paul.  Yet here he is encouraging the church to stay focused on their mission!  Jesus said, “I will build ‘My’ church and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it!”   Usually the enemy of our soul doesn’t storm the gates of our hearts, but does it subtly - Solomon warns “the little foxes that spoil the vines.”

That’s why we must stay watchful (redeeming the times) and fulfill our ministry despite the afflictions!  By the grace of God, I am even more determined today than ever to not give up and fulfill the ministry God has entrusted to me.

And I encourage you to do the same!  If you are born again by the spirit of God, that same spirit will enable you!  You are the “beloved!”  God says I have chosen you for the ministry of reconciliation.  Mankind desperately needs reconciled back to God through a personal relationship with His Son - Jesus!   Beloved, the will of God is for you to fulfill the ministry He has entrusted to you and to not give up!

Beloved, “Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.”

“Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever.  Amen.” (Jude 24-25)

Pastor Rodney