GIVE IT ALL YOU’VE GOT!

COLOSSIANS 4:17: “And say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.”

OBSERVATION: Paul closes his letter to the Colossians with several greetings and commendations to his fellow workers in the Gospel and those whom he would send with his epistle to the Church in Colossia. At the end of this section of greetings and commendations he gives this simple exhortation to Archippus – “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in The Lord, that you may fulfill it.”

We don’t know much about Archippus, other than that he was a member of Philemon’s family (household), and that there was a church in his house (Philemon 1-2). However, Paul’s exhortation speaks volumes to each one of us if we will listen. Ephesians 4 tells us that we are all being equipped for the “work of ministry”. I Corinthians 12-14 and Romans 6 clearly tell us that we have all received unique spiritual gifts and that we have a unique call for ministry and service within the Body of Christ. I Peter 4 exhorts us to use these gifts as faithful stewards of God’s Grace. Yet, we all face the same struggle that Archippus seems to be struggling with – “DOING IT”!

Each one of us has a deep inner sense that we were created to do something of value with our lives. Have you ever said this to yourself or others – “I just want to do something that makes a difference!” The good news is – WE CAN! We have been created with a unique personality, giftings and destiny. Many of us have begun to enter into our destiny – only to be sidetracked by the challenges of every day life, past disappointments and failures, or our own insecurities. Each one of us needs to hear Paul’s exhortation to Archippus – “Take heed to the ministry you have received and fulfill it!”

Do you know what God is calling you to do? IF YOU DON’T – seek The Lord! He will guide you into His perfect will for your life. IF YOU DO – shake off everything that is keeping you from fulfilling your calling and get back into the game! The time is now. You are called and gifted by the God of all Creation! You have an eternal destiny and purpose! Give it all you’ve got! The Lord will meet you with renewed strength, renewed vision, and renewed joy. You can make an eternal difference through your life! In Jesus Name!