Blessings! Ensured • Executed • Experienced • Expressed
Ephesians 1:1 AMP
Paul, an apostle (special messenger, personally chosen representative) of Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed), by the will of God [that is, by His purpose and choice],
“An Apostle”
When we looked at “Paul”, we said that Paul was picked for a specific purpose. What is an “apostle”? A person personally sent with full authority to represent the sender.
When we place our trust in Jesus Christ as Lord, does God have a specific purpose for us? Yes! We are given an identity -
“Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!” 1 John 3:1a (nkjv)
We are also known by the term, “Christians”. This identity was first given to the disciples in Acts 11:26. What does that word mean? “Christian” indicates an identity derived from allegiance to Jesus the Messiah (Christos).
So, we have a relationship with God and that gives each of us a responsibility to live a life that demonstrates our allegiance to God. Our first purpose is to represent God to those around us. We are to be the light to let others know about God and His love for us.
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 (nkjv)
How do we let our light shine? God tells us throughout Scripture.
He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8 (nkjv)
I have been crucified with Christ; 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 for me. Galatians 2:20 (nkjv)
“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. Titus 2:11-14 (nkjv)
The first Blessing: we are chosen by God — but it goes beyond that! God chose us for a specific purpose!
The Blessing Ensured is that God has chosen us and given us full authority to represent Him! The ultimate blessing comes with responsibly.
