Ministry in the Spirit

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Scripture: 2 Corinthians 3:4-6 (ESV)

4 Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God. 5 Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, 6 who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

Devotion:

            In today’s scripture Paul is writing about the ministry given to him and his companions. However, today we can interpret it to mean all of those who are part of the family of God. Just as Paul was in these verses so we are now by virtue of the call God has placed on all of our lives. Let us then dig into this word written to us to see how we can live as ministers of the word of God in our hurting and broken world.

            First, and most importantly, we can have confidence in our ministry. So many people never step out in faith to exercise their ministry gifts because they lack confidence that God will be with them. In these verses, Paul clearly states that our confidence does not come from within ourselves but from God through the Holy Spirit. If you step out, God will be faithful to see that His work is done His way through you.

            The next key word found in these verses is the word sufficient. Notice what Paul is saying here. God never promises that we will minister perfectly, effectively, or even that we will be better than average, but rather we will be sufficient for the task at hand. We need to keep these words in mind as we labor in God’s vineyard. God created us, and He saves us, and provides the Holy Spirit to us so that we will be able complete the tasks he sets before us.

            God is not seeking perfect people to bring His kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. God promises the Spirit for empowerment to do whatever He wishes to accomplish. Indeed, if we are trying to do God’s work without this empowerment, we will not be sufficient for the job. As Paul says above the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. If we move when and where the Spirit directs us, our ministry in Christ will produce fruit that lasts.

Prayer:

            Lord thank you for making us sufficient for the task to which you have called us. Let us seek to live a life that is available for you to use for your glory. Encourage us today to live a life that is open to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Open doors for us to walk through and accomplish your will today. May we take up our crosses and follow you wherever you lead us. Amen.

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