There seems to be this unspoken, yet popular belief that if something is too difficult or even dangerous, it cannot be God’s will for our lives. But according to today’s passage, Paul would cringe at this, as he practiced a faith that followed Jesus at any cost.

Paul was easily the most influential Christian in history, and in his interaction with the Ephesian elders here in Acts 20, we can see a few reasons why.

God’s preached Word is not something to endure; it’s something we need to do and be all that God has called us to do and be.

It is amazing to see what happens when God makes waves in the name of His Son, Jesus, drawing many people to Himself.  Will you join God today to see this happen?

Do we first turn to the words of celebrity pastors and apologists, or the Word of God? Do the people you listen to hide behind the cross of Christ so that you may see the glory, beauty, and love of Christ, or do they desire to be loved and admired?

Let us follow Apollos’ example in being fervent in sharing the Gospel because we can trust God that he can take care of the rest.

God was on mission for you, and is still on mission for the people who have yet to know Him. Wherever you are, God has many people in your city or town. We should be honored to be part of his mission and to have opportunities to grow in our faith despite the difficulties we may face.

We are not some cosmic accident, or owned by hundreds of capricious gods, but we are uniquely created with dignity and purpose by God and to be in relationship with God. As created beings, we belong to our Maker. We belong to the One who knew us even before we existed.

Life isn’t about finding more ways to please yourself. It’s not about summoning up power within yourself to follow more rules. It’s about looking away from yourself. Repenting!

You are not successful in your ministry just because many people come to believe. You aren’t a failure if people do not think so. Your success was secured by Christ’s life, death, burial, and resurrection. Because of that, you can leave the results up to God.