Myths about Missionaries
When I Do it Right, People Will Respond

Scripture Reading: Romans 15:30-32

Key Verse: Colossians 4:3c

…for which I am in chains.

Today’s myth is one that is counter intuitive because in most areas of our lives we find that if something is done right, people will respond positively.  However, in the kingdom of God this is not true.  Jesus certainly did everything right and yet many walked away in disbelief.  In our scripture for today, we need to note the phrase: “…for which I am in chains.”  The Apostle Paul was doing everything right and yet was thrown into prison and held for trial.  It is an historical fact that millions have died for their faith and simply because of their faith!

            We must get out of our heads that whenever things go wrong we must have done something wrong.  God made no promises in His Word that when we walk with Him through our faith in Christ that our lives would be free of trouble.  In fact, Jesus warned us about our life in this world: “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” (John 16:33).

            Maybe you are suffering right now, either physically or emotionally, and are having thoughts that you must be doing something wrong.  Remind yourself that the apostle suffered in many ways.  He was probably going blind, so he suffered from a physical problem.  He was rejected by people he loved and cared about.  He was thrown in jail, which restricted his traveling to churches.  Yet he had peace—God’s peace!

Father, if suffering is in my future, grant me the strength and courage to trust your plan for my life.  I will rest in your peace!  In Jesus’ name, amen.