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Acts 19-20

Acts 20: 24  "But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God."

The first thought, when reading this particular verse in Acts 20, that came to me was- WOW! Our culture today could not be any more opposite than the statement Paul is making here. He is stating that his life is worth nothing to him. Even though he knew there were more hardships and tribulations awaiting him, he was not worried about how these things would affect him. He was more worried about finishing the course the Lord Jesus had set before him. Today we spend our time on FACEbook, Instagram, YOU tube, and even taking SELFies. Culture tells us that making ourselves happy and pursuing our own interests is what is most important. If we aren’t happy and life isn’t easy, then something is terribly wrong. That is completely contrary to what scripture says! John 16:33 (NIV) says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Paul’s only goal was to carry out the mission given to him by the Lord- “to testify to the gospel of the grace of God”. Are we working towards finishing the race and completing the task that the Lord has given to us or are focusing on promoting ourselves, helping ourselves, and looking out for ourselves? Let’s follow Paul’s example and work towards completing the goal Christ has given to use. In the end, that is the only goal that matters. 
Sarah Murrin

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