Paul Loved God

But if anyone loves God, this one is known by Him

1 Corinthians 9:3

Too, Paul knew he mattered to God. He also knew why he was created. Paul possessed a kingdom vision and purpose and faced his unique call with divine unction tempered by determination. Hardships, inconveniences, or difficulties never rattled Paul, nor did they stop his mission or change his focus.

Although Paul was into people, he was not moved or influenced by them, nor what they could give to him or do for him. He was no respecter of people, either. Not by class, heritage, birthright, or otherwise, and none persuaded or altered his purpose, yet Paul loved them all. He knew that the gospel of Christ was for everyone – for all who would believe. (See Romans 1:16.) That's why their personal circumstances or political views never influenced Paul one way or the other. He was only moved by God. You might say his heart for God was undivided. His daily burden was doing God's work God's way.

Although this work was directed toward people, God guided it to fulfill His mission to save the lost. So wherever God sent him, Paul went with a confident grace, wholly abandoned to God. Even in hard places, God's favor was with him. Paul felt His presence and abiding peace, and it was evidenced by the things he endured. A rocky sea – no problem. Stoned or beaten and left for dead, whatever; in a dungeon or in chains – it's all good. Wherever, whatever God determined, Paul endured. From the moment of salvation, Paul was all in with God.

What's the takeaway? God will see you, though. Even when hard times come, remember you are precious in God's sight. He knows you and loves you, not as you should be but just as you are.

Prayer: Mighty and gracious Lord, help us remember that your love is not fickle like human love, and it's not performance-based, either. For that, we adore you all the more. Jesus, may we find unprecedented peace in knowing that your love will never fail. Amen and amen.