It is not always easy to be set apart. Mostly because the average person doesn't understand what it is to be set apart. If there are not clear boundaries in life, then everything gets muddled. To be set apart is to live in this world, having friends in all walks. It is knowing that you belong to Christ, but not cutting yourself off so that no one can see God working within you. People need to see that you are not perfect, then they need to see how you handle disappointment, your mistakes, or conflict.
Paul is a boundary setter. He was set apart for the gospel of God. He shows us what it is means to be set apart in this world. He knew how to live life in the world, but as the Holy Spirit leads instead of whatever direction that is personally desired. Bein set apart is making it clear to the world who the savior is and how they can find salvation. It is not a position that will always make you popular. To live a life set apart is a life of grace and faith. To be set apart is to be a person whom lives by a faith that produces righteousness.
Paul wanted to go to Rome to encourage the church he had planted when he had gone as a prisoner years earlier. He was unashamed of his faith, so he declared it everywhere and to anyone willing to listen. I am sure he was disappointed when God did not let him go to Rome when he wanted, but he just changed his plans to line up with what God was telling him. He followed through with his obligations over his personal desires.
Romans 1:1-17
No comments:
Post a Comment
This Blog is open for discussion. Please share your thoughts.