A Life Saturated by Grace: Paul's Courageous and Selfless Ministry
“But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” (Acts 20:24)
The apostle Paul’s life and ministry are a stunning testament to the power of God’s grace. His service was not only shaped by grace but also entirely sustained by it. In today's Day by Day by Grace devotional, we are reminded of how Paul’s courageous and selfless ministry reflected the transformative work of grace in his life.
Ministry Born of Grace
Paul’s ministry wasn’t something he crafted on his own; it was a gift from God. He said, “I became a minister according to the gift of the grace of God given to me” (Ephesians 3:7). From the very beginning, his calling was grounded in grace:
Given by the Lord: Paul referred to his work as “the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus.”
Empowered by Grace: He acknowledged that all his labor was sustained by God’s grace: “I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me” (1 Corinthians 15:10).
Focused on Grace: Paul’s message was clear: “to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”
Paul’s life and ministry remind us that everything we do for the Lord is by His grace, from beginning to end. It’s not about striving in our own strength but relying on His sufficiency.
Courageous Service
Paul’s ministry was marked by incredible courage. He declared, “But none of these things move me” (Acts 20:24)—a bold statement considering the immense challenges he faced. The Holy Spirit had warned him that “chains and tribulations” awaited him wherever he went (Acts 20:23). Yet, Paul pressed on, leaning on the sustaining grace of God.
His courage was not a result of personal resolve but of God’s strength working within him. “In all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses” (2 Corinthians 6:4). Paul’s boldness was rooted in his trust in God’s faithfulness, a trust that allowed him to endure sleepless nights, beatings, shipwrecks, imprisonments, and more.
Selfless Service
Equally striking was Paul’s selflessness. “Nor do I count my life dear to myself,” he said. His motivation wasn’t personal gain but the spiritual well-being of others and the glory of God.
Paul saw his life as an offering to enhance the faith and service of others: “Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all” (Philippians 2:17). His ultimate aim was that Christ would be magnified, whether through his life or his death: “So now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death” (Philippians 1:20).
This selflessness allowed Paul to say with confidence, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).
The Exchanged Life Lens
Understanding Paul’s ministry through the lens of the exchanged life brings even greater clarity. Paul wasn’t just serving by grace; he was living by the life of Christ within him. He recognized that his old life in Adam was crucified with Christ and that his new life was Christ’s life expressed through him (Galatians 2:20).
This perspective changes everything. Paul’s courage didn’t come from mustering up bravery; it came from resting in Christ’s indwelling life. His selflessness wasn’t the result of disciplined altruism but the overflow of Christ’s love living through him.
When we live out the exchanged life, we realize that ministry isn’t about what we can do for God but about what He does through us. As we abide in Him, His life flows naturally, producing fruit that glorifies the Father (John 15:5, 8).
Grace for Our Journey
Paul’s life raises an important question for us: How are we allowing God’s grace to shape and sustain our own race? Like Paul, we are called to live courageously and selflessly, but this is only possible when we rely on the grace that God so abundantly provides.
When challenges come, we can trust in His strength to carry us through. When fear or self-interest threatens to take over, we can lean on His grace to realign our hearts with His purposes.
A Prayer of Gratitude
Father, thank You for the abundant grace You pour into our lives. Like Paul, we rejoice in the privilege of living courageously and selflessly, not for our own gain but for Your glory. Thank You for providing all we need for life and godliness in Christ. We acknowledge that His indwelling life is our strength, our hope, and our victory. May our lives testify to the power of Your grace, drawing others to the gospel of Christ. To You be all the glory. Amen.
Reflect and Share
How has God’s grace sustained you in the challenges of life and ministry?
In what ways can you live more courageously and selflessly, trusting in His sufficiency?
Let’s celebrate the grace that empowers us to run the race, finish well, and bring glory to our faithful God. Share your reflections below!