Revival Anthem ~ Rend Collective
And, oh, yes, tell Archippus, “Do your best in the job
you received from the Master. Do your very best.” ~ Colossians 4:17 MSG
"Mom,” Elizabeth said, “I did my very best
work." While I was certain of it, her words weren’t random. They echoed
the encouragement of her teacher. We all need encouraging teachers, leaders
and/or coaches who are purposeful about pouring into our lives. A good teacher
or coach doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear. Instead, they challenge
you to do your very best, even when you’re certain you’ve got nothing left to
give.
In two of his letters to the Colossians, Paul directly addressed
Archippus, a “fellow soldier” for cause of Christ, (Colossians 4:17; Philemon
1:12). Some Bible scholars think it was to challenge Archippus, while others
think it was only to encourage him. A good coach or teacher does both. If Paul
received word that Archippus wasn’t living up to his calling, it would have
been his responsibility to address, challenge, and encourage Archippus.
Like the quarterback, in Facing the Giants, who
was challenged by his coach to give his very best, we’re challenged by our
Coach. Holy Spirit challenges us, fellow soldiers and champions for the cause
of Christ, to give our very best in fulfilling the calling we’ve received. In
recent weeks, the world has been turned upside down by this pandemic, fighting
a war with what Trump calls an “invisible enemy.” Though we can’t even see the
height of the giant we face, our Coach is calling us to give our very best to
shine God’s light of hope into a world in desperate need.
For a world plunged into darkness and despair, there is
no better time to act. The world is watching, waiting for a hero—for Jesus. As
a champion for Christ, Holy Spirit is calling you to give Him your very best.
What will you give?
©Heather Potts 2020
The Death Crawl scene ~ Facing the Giants
