Galatians 2:19-20-NASB
For through the Law I died to the Law, so that I might live to God. “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. “I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died needlessly.
In my opinion, Apostle Paul’s conversion is one of the most mysterious and complex experiences of all the apostles who were called to follow Jesus (Reads Acts Chapter 26). As I continue to learn about Paul’s incredible journey with God through his writings such as this week’s scripture, it makes me think of the consumption of unhealthy food. Paul’s ambition was initially driven by the world standards (power, education, influential life, jealousy, etc.).
After Paul met Jesus Christ, he was given a different purpose. Jesus provided him with spiritual food that consist of repentance, faith, commitment, humility, love, and restoration. In many of his writings, Paul refers to his suffering for the church as their glory or a joy. In 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, he encourages the saints not to focus on their trials but on the unseen victories and rewards that await all who have been dead to the flesh and alive in Christ. Like Apostle Paul, Peter in his writing reminds us that trials are not a strange or foreign experience happening to God’s people, he encourages us to rejoice (1Peter 4:12-13). God recently gave me a revelation that I hope will continue help me grow in my life journey as a Christian. I have learned as a Christian that my life success and trials are not for my glory. I learned to say, Annaika, this is not about you! The word of God is transforming me to ask the Lord what do I need to learn in every situation? Or who in my path are you preparing me to minister to? I have been amazed to see how God is continuing to use me in ministering to so many people through my painful experiences and victories. Let’s be reminded that Christ lives in us, therefore, we no longer depend on the flesh as our food of choice. Faith, forgiveness, and grace are given to us by God through Jesus Christ. Do not allow the forces of this world to lead us to invalidate the gift and power given to us by God.
