Read Romans 1:8-15.
The second reason Paul could live unashamed of the Gospel was because he knew God's vision for his life. Today, the average person simply exists, living a shallow life that is focused only on his own day-to-day needs. In contrast, Paul had a clear purpose from God, and he knew it would lead him to preach the Gospel in Rome (v. 15).
God calls us to make it possible for others to hear and respond to the Gospel.
Paul trusted that this was God's vision for him, even though it took much longer than he expected to see this calling fulfilled. He was forced to make many detours—imprisonment, shipwrecks, beatings—yet he trusted God. And we know that he did see this vision fulfilled (see Acts 28:11-30).
Jesus Christ did not give us salvation so that we could simply sit in a pew for the rest of our lives. He wants us to pass on the gift of salvation to others—spending our lives in service to Him in unique ways. One thing remains true for us all: God calls us to make it possible for others to hear and respond to the Gospel.
What is God's vision for your life? If you ask Him, He will show you how you can make a difference for His Kingdom. Get away to a quiet place and be still in His presence long enough for Him to communicate with you. Then, like Paul, trust God to bring His vision to life. Do not despair when detours come; be encouraged. Any true calling must endure intense opposition.
What is one way you can take a step of obedience toward God's vision for your life?
Prayer: Lord, will You show me Your vision for my life? Grant me an obedient heart to follow Your will. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome" (Romans 1:14-15).
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