March 27

Finish Our Course With Joy

"Neither I count my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus to testify the gospel of grace of God." Acts 20:24

Paul’s absolute dedication to the race he began with joy is noted in the verse. His life was worth nothing to him without Jesus Christ, for his life belonged to the savior whom he served and his life was required in Jesus’ service. Paul knew what it was like to act under the direction of Jesus Christ and he knew that to do so meant that he would finish the race begun with joy. It was Paul’s goal, and it is ours also, to fulfill the ministry given to us in such a way as would be pleasing to and bring glory to the Father. This ministry that we have been given is to testify to the grace so freely bestowed upon us from our Father in heaven. This grace that is so precious to us cannot be kept to ourselves, but must be shared with others. What joy there is in sharing the gospel of grace with others! May the joy that Paul experienced over and over in his earthly life be ours also, as we share with others the love of Jesus Christ and the grace that flows from the throne of God. Let us not hold on to the things of this life, but as Paul, count not our life dear, that we like him might finish our course with joy and in doing so bring glory and honor to the Father who has shed His grace so freely upon us.

Father, show us the ministry that You have for us in this life. Reveal to us Your purpose for our lives and help us to move forward in joy, knowing that this is the work You have laid out for us. Help us to share with those around us what a marvelous God You are and what a precious Savior we have in Jesus Christ! Use us to bring Yourself glory and honor. Amen