Paul's amazement reflects much of my own, I think the level is probably different, but he voices what most believers if not all think.
"I became a servant of his gospel by the gift of God's grace given me though the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given."
Pauls understanding of how HUMAN he really is and imperfect in comparison to the Father is realistic and captivating. Pauls explanation here humbles me greatly, allowing me to realize my place in life and eternal life. No matter how confident I get, how well I do in sports, financially, socially, whatever, I should always be humble for these are all gifts from God and are blessings. I deserve none of them! Although God loves to reward and bless his people, creation, and it brings him happiness and praise when we recognize the simple fact that he is all. Some how I wish that this fact could always be in my mind in whatever I do in my day, all my days. Not only would everything be done with much passion, be with honor and glory to God. I am even thinking about the race that I just did - the moonlight run. I ran as hard as I could, and succeeded with a fairly good time. This success must be given to God, be thankful always for the blessings and gifts he gives me.
Oh, and later on, in verses 10-13, Paul talks about the wisdom of God being known to the heavenly realms. Im not quite sure what exactly he means. Im assuming that he is talking about God teaching and showing the angels??? about his "manifold wisdom". Maybe that makes sense, thats about the only thing I could get from it. If this is what it means, please elaborate on this and explain it to me.
Then 12-13 are some of the most heart felt verses I have read, they seem very personal to me. Paul is very honest, I can almost picture him writing this and the feelings behind these 2 verses. So pure.
Tonight at the o2 service we sang a song and the chorus went something like trust in the Lord, and then we sang hallelugah 4 times. If you guys know the name of this song, let me know. THanks.
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2 comments:
I think you're on the right track about the rulers and authorities of the heavenly realms - they are angels. They would also include rebellious angels because Ephesians 6 tells us that our spiritual fight is against the rulers, authorities, powers of this dark world and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. The cool (and sobering/humbling) thing is that God displays his wisdom to these spiritual forces through the unity of his church - to the degree that we are spiritually united it portrays God's wisdom. Wow!
I can't think of the name of the song but when I do, I'll let you know.
I am impressed at how Paul keeps a perspective of himself as being the least of these, yet he acts with boldness and confidence through Christ at the same time. His balanced perspective on so many subjects is amazing.
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