Apostle Paul was passionate about being out and sharing the gospel to the world. When people stoned him and left him for dead, he got back up and continued preaching the gospel (Acts 14). Now that he was in chains, he could not do much, but his passion for spreading the gospel was not chained. He trusted and accepted God's sovereign will over the gospel ministry. He believed that, even in chains, he was advancing the gospel through his courageous example.

Paul acknowledged that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others do so out of good will. This is not an easy thing to look past, but even on the sidelines, he was happy to see and cheer on others who were stepping up and doing the work, regardless of motivation. God's ways are mysterious, and the power of the gospel reaches the hearts of those who are open to receive it. Even when we become less, Christ can shine all the brighter.


Application: Lord, may I not focus on the strength or weakness of the messenger, but on the message of the gospel itself to give salvation and life to all who accept it.
One Word: Christ be known