Perspective!

It is good and encouraging to experience a sense of accomplishment regarding the tasks of this life. I believe we all desire to feel our life can have some significance to the lives of others and ultimately to the service of God. However, as we go about the various labors we might be involved in we must retain a proper perspective of OUR ROLE. The statement has been made “It isn’t what a man does -- it’s what’s left of him after he’s done it.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

Though the Corinthian church was rich with spiritual gifts, Paul found the need to help bring their abilities and labors into perspective. There was a problem with jealousy and strife among them ( 1 Corinthians 3:3), some thinking themselves or their gifts as more significant than that of their other brethren.

Paul admonished…
“(5) What then is Apollos? What is Paul? SERVANTS through whom you believed, as the Lord assigned to each. (6) I planted, Apollos watered, but GOD GAVE THE GROWTH. (7) So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. (8) He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wage according to his labor.” ( 1 Corinthians 3:5-8 ESV)

Paul was appointed to be an Apostle of Christ. Nevertheless, though he had authority as an Apostle, he maintained the perspective of his SERVANT ROLE. Paul did acknowledged there is reward for the labors. However, OUR ROLE AS SERVANTS and the results coming by the power of God must be kept in mind in order for us to maintain a proper perspective. Within the family of God, OUR ROLE is just one among many of equal significance, all being important with regard to the whole. One of us serves in one way and another in some other way while God is the One who provides the resulting growth from those labors.

Let us each eagerly and humbly serve, recognizing how we share the same significance in OUR ROLE AS SERVANTS with a united aim to bring glory to God by serving His Will. Such a perspective helps maintain a sense of peace and unity with one another and thus enhances our usefulness to God. May we do our part in maintaining such a spirit.

Have a great day AS A FELLOW WORKER WITH GOD!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Responsibility