PARTNERS WITH GOD

“God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:9 NLT

One of Satan’s most successful ploys to defeat God’s people, and block them from completing the work God created them to do, is by convincing them that they don’t matter and that anything they have done, or might do, has no real significance.  That is a lie!

As we prepare for Resurrection Sunday, let us remember that God created each one of us uniquely to accomplish work that only we can do.  We matter.  Therefore, you not only matter to God, but you are also important to this world.

The verse above, 1 Corinthians 1:9, gives us one proof of that.  When we believe in Jesus and trust in his completed work on the Cross, we leave the old behind and are being transformed into totally new people.  We enter into partnership with the Father’s Son Jesus, and are tasked with bringing Christ’s Kingdom to earth.

What does that look like?  Well, look at what Jesus did on earth.  He drew people to the truth of who the heavenly Father is, he healed, delivered and taught the truth.  He raised people from the dead.  We may not have a miracles ministry, but we are all commanded to love people into the Kingdom using the gifts and talents that God has provided. 

By trusting in the Holy Spirit’s power at work in and through us, we can change our environment, rescue the innocent and oppressed and bring hope to the hopeless.  You have the same power that raised Jesus from the dead at work within you, so nothing is impossible as you partner with Jesus.  (Romans 8:11) The devil knows that he loses his power over humankind as we recognize the authority given to us to partner with Jesus.

So, shake off the discouragement!  Tell the devil he may not lie to you and block you any longer.  Decide to believe the truth.  Because of what we celebrate at Easter, Christ’s completed work for us on the Cross, you are very important. You are a child of God and a partner with Jesus to hasten Christ’s return and Satan’s ultimate defeat. 

Pray with me: Father God, forgive me for allowing the devil’s lies about me to discourage and block me from believing you and partnering with Jesus. Holy Spirit, strengthen my will and multiply my faith. Teach me, and work through me, to hasten Christ’s return and Satan’s final defeat. In Jesus’ powerful, compassionate name, I pray. Amen.

Dear friend, be alert to the lies you believe that prevent you from believing that you are important and that what you do matters.  Be blessed as your faith and courage multiply and you align with God’s desires and plans.  Be blessed with overflowing joy as you learn to partner with Jesus in bringing his Kingdom to earth.  Amen.
Mary Sumner
March 29, 2019