By Annaika Dastine | Founder, Who Is This Jesus? Ministry

"I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong…"

Paul’s Desire Was to Strengthen Others

As I study Romans, Paul challenges me again to see my journey with Jesus through Jesus’ eyes.

One of the many lessons I have learned is that Paul’s ministry was focused on the community of faith. His longing to visit the church in Rome stemmed from his desire to help believers grow stronger in their faith.

We see that same desire throughout his ministry. Acts 14:21–22 (NIV) tells us that Paul and Barnabas returned to believers they had previously reached, “…strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith.” In 1 Thessalonians 3:2 (NIV), Paul explains that Timothy was sent to “strengthen and encourage” the Thessalonian believers in their faith.

I am learning that ministry was not just something Paul did; it was his life. He lived so that when others looked at him, they could see Jesus. Paul expressed this in 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NIV): “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”

He did not just want people to begin their journey with Jesus. He wanted them to grow strong enough to continue walking with Jesus and finish their race well.

Paul gave us a vivid example of the importance of finishing well. Near the end of his life, he declared:

2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Paul knew that starting the race was not enough. He wanted to finish it still holding on to his faith.

Hebrews offers us the same encouragement:

Hebrews 12:1–2 (NIV)
“…let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

My friends, let us not fall prey to Satan’s lies when life gets hard, seems unfair, or even when everything seems to be going well.

This earth and everything in it will pass away. But God has promised us something eternal.

In Revelation 21:1–2, John sees “a new heaven and a new earth” and the Holy City, the new Jerusalem. Then, in Revelation 22, we are given a beautiful picture of that eternal city, where God’s servants will see His face and reign “for ever and ever” (Revelation 22:4–5, NIV).

The gift of life we have been given is meant to be shared with others. You are the temple where God’s Spirit lives. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Keep the faith as you continue to find your purpose in God’s kingdom.

Let us strive to help every soul finish the race strong and enter the great city God has promised to those who embrace the perfect Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Reflection question: Who can you strengthen and encourage in their walk with Jesus this week?

Weekly Scripture Romans 1:11 NIV