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Paul's Resolutions
by Peter Tyrrell
Over the years Chuck has written on many notable characters of the Bible. You may have read his in-depth studies on people like the prophet Elijah, Queen Esther and the incomparable King David. In amongst these amazing Biblical characters is the inspirational Paul of Tarsus, the person Chuck describes as ‘A Man of Grace and Grit.’
As we look around the corner of a New Year we can see that our world is becoming a harder place in which to live, not just for Christians, but also for the general population. Many of the ‘rules of life’ that gave us security in years gone by seem to be flaunted now as people pursue their own version of the truth rather than God’s. Even our churches are suffering from this malaise, which is evident by the dysfunction many are experiencing.
Paul knew what it was like to live in a world of great change, where being a follower of Christ wasn’t easy. While the issues of the first century A.D. are quite different in scope to the 21st century, their context has hardly changed.
If we were to sit down and interview the apostle Paul, what wisdom might he give us for 2010?
Use every situation to grow closer to Christ
“Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ.” Acts 9:22 (NIV)
Every situation is an opportunity for you to learn about God’s character and draw closer to Him. Paul went from persecuting Christians, to being God’s instrument, carrying His name to the Jews and Gentiles. Paul used life’s trials and tribulations to worship God, never passing up an opportunity to grow through them.
Show patience
“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.” Acts 13:2-3 (NIV)
All too often the ‘urgent’ syndrome consumes us. This reactive mentality is simply wearing us down, undermining our resilience, making it harder for us to cope in a changing world. The solution is to simply pause… and have patience. The old saying "hasten slowly" is even more relevant in the modern age. Be patient and use your time to understand and apply wisdom before embarking on your next journey. The prophets and church leaders at Antioch knew the importance of preparing Saul and Barnabas with a spiritual covering before they embarked on their mission to Cyprus.
Be an encourager
“First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world.” Romans 1:8 (NIV)
In every Epistle written by Paul, and generally in his opening verses, he encourages those in the early church. The affirmation Paul gave to these missionary workers was more important than anything else they could be given. I’m sure you can reflect on those times when your esteem has blossomed because you knew a peer had confidence and respect for you. Discouragement is a cancer that destroys from within. Your supportive encouragement is a key part in edifying and rebuilding others.
Mentor others in the truth
“I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.” 1 Corinthians 1:10 (NIV)
I’m sure you’ve heard it said that children can have many friends, but what they really need is a parent. The apostle Paul was the parent to the growing Christian church and he knew that planting faith seeds was only the start. They needed to be watered and nourished, and at times, even pruned. To be a mentor requires your commitment for the long haul. It means that you are willing to walk alongside another as their faith grows to maturity. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the opportunity and skill to spiritually coach another.
Preach the Word through your example
“Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. 2 Timothy 4: 2-5 (NIV)
There is a saying that is traditionally attributed to St. Francis of Assisi: “Preach the gospel at all times, and when all else fails, use words.” The beginning of a New Year is a good time to make a self-assessment of the example we are to others. Do they see the actions, emotions, and life-style of someone committed to Jesus Christ? PREACH THE WORD by who you are.
In the next few days take a moment to sit with your Bible and read the context of each of the resolutions above. Be encouraged that we’re all on a journey with Christ, learning about Him as we investigate new ways to model His character in our daily lives.
HAPPY NEW YEAR
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Peter Tyrrell is the Executive Director of Insight for Living Australia based in Melbourne.
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