“Of which I was made a minister, according to the gift of God’s grace which was given to me according to the working of His power” (Eph. 3:7).
We all love to receive gifts. Gifts are made special by the relationship which prompts the giving and the benefit derived from the gift. There is no gift to compare with God’s gift of His only begotten Son. It was completely undeserved on our part and provided for the forgiveness of our sin and made possible our relationship with holy God.
That initial gift of grace received in salvation is the beginning of our new life in Christ. But the word “grace” has a range of meanings in Pauline writings. Here Paul was referring to the gift of grace that enabled him to be a minister of the gospel. Paul was overwhelmed to think that a former persecutor could become a preacher of God’s word. Paul used the term diakonos, which is sometimes used to describe persons who have a function of office of deacon. Its more general sense, which is meant here, is one who lives and works in God’s service. In that sense it should be true of all Christians.
Paul was not only enabled to minister because of the manifestation of grace but also by “the working of His power.” The apostolic task to which he had been called could not be accomplished in human strength or ingenuity. Paul needed supernatural empowering to accomplish his work for God. This power was made operative in his life by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
God has graced and empowered each of us for service to Him. Have you found your place in service to the King?
Prayer: Father, thank You for the grace and power to serve You effectively. Amen