A Missionary Like Paul

Paul spent a whole lot of his time preaching.  Let's see how he practiced what he preached.

Actions that complemented Paul's teachings (See 1 Thessalonians 1:1-6, 2:1-13, and 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12, 3:7-9)

• He recognized the people's sacrifices and hard work in living the gospel
• He prayed for them always, asking for the grace of God to be with them.
• He remembered who these people were (Children of God, chosen of Him)
• He taught with power, the Holy Ghost, and great assurance
• He spoke the truth boldly despite persecution and the use of flattery by others to win followers
• He didn't seek glory or praise
• He labored night and day
• He acted holy, justly, and unblameably
• He exhorted, comforted, and charged
• He did all he could to sustain himself and not be a burden
• He was willing to impart not only the word, but his own soul, because the people were dear to him

 Have you ever talked to a missionary who's like that?  Someone who has a strength of character that has been proved, who now faces the world with courage, and who in absolute sincerity is willing to do anything because he cares about you?  That combination is powerful.  I think a lot of times we do ourselves a disservice as teachers because we don't open up our hearts like that. Maybe it's just a duty we're getting out of the way ("I really don't want to give a talk tomorrow..." *insert sheepish face. I know I've been there!) On the other hand, maybe we really do want to serve God.  I just hope we can learn to do it with true courage and charity.

My brother and I have been concerned with huge numbers of teenagers and young adults who are becoming inactive, just not buying what they hear in church anymore.  We both decided that the law is only as important as it helps people to come unto Christ. It's people that are the most important.  In my life, I want to be like Paul--I want to thank people for their strength and sacrifice.  I want to pray for the grace of God to attend them.  I want my teaching to be filled with comfort and assurances.  I want to see people for who they really are and never ignore their concerns. Above all, I hope I will always willing to impart "not the gospel of God only, but also [my] own soul, because [they] are dear unto [me]." (1 Thes 1:9)