As God’s representatives we represent more than God Himself; we represent His kingdom and its ways. Paul modeled the ways of a servant of the LORD. He exhorted disciples to likewise model the ways of God’s kingdom. He had some things to say about that. He related that God’s kingdom is not concerned about observance of rituals, but as the LORD said, “the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith” (Matthew 23:23). He amplified this in saying, “the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men. Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another” (Romans 14:17-20). RELEVANCE We live in a hostile and agnostic world. Representing the LORD should not be a difficult thing, but be refreshing to those around us. As we seek to be pleasing to God, we can’t help but be a source of encouragement—light and salt—to a world in darkness. “But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts…But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children” (1 Thessalonians 2:4-8). “Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you” (Titus 2:6-8). REFLECT AND RELATE Think of the people you interact with daily. What do they see of Christ in you? God wants to entrust you to be His ambassador. How can you learn of Him to represent more of Him? REFERENCES Romans 14:1-23; 2 Corinthians 11:17; 2 Timothy 2:8-19
Being the Lord’s Ambassador
