May 17

We enjoy recognition—well, for our achievements. Of course, we’ll pass on having anyone notice our ‘botch-ups.’ When we fail at something we’ve tried, we far prefer to slither into a quiet corner until the mess clears up and nobody’s noticing it anymore.

But we do want a pat on the back or a raise or a promotion when we’ve succeeded at some worthy endeavor. We’ve yearned for approval from our earliest childhood. Having Mommy and Daddy smile at our small successes motivated us to strive for greater ones.

When we come to a saving knowledge of Jesus, however, and we become aware of His great commission to share our faith with others, there is no pressure put upon us. In fact, in Romans 1:5, 6 we are told just the opposite! The Word tells us, “It is by Jesus we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name…You are the called of Jesus Christ.”

Our sharing of His Truth does not depend upon our diligence in disseminating it among the lost nor upon our desire to serve His Kingdom’s purposes. Rather, HE gives us the grace to perform what HE calls us to do! When we are obedient to that call, HE honors it and causes our efforts to be effectual toward the achievement of the task HE’s called and empowered us to do!