Rich Bitterman
on November 18, 2024

Surrendering Solo Faith

How can I give myself entirely to God if I have no idea what God wants of me?

Devotion 2024 Nov

6 min read

Romans 12:3–5

In a world full of uncertainties, one pressing question for a new Christian often looms large: How can I give myself entirely to God if I have no idea what God wants of me?

Paul offers clarity, outlining God’s will for our everyday conduct.

“For through the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith. For just as we have many parts in one body and all the body’s parts do not have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually parts of one another.” (Romans 12:3–5).

Paul’s wisdom underscores the essence of God’s will, urging us to exercise humility and embrace a unified purpose within the church body.

It’s crucial to recognize that the Christian journey isn’t solitary; it’s intricately woven into a communal fabric. The very first thing that a new convert did wasn’t to have a quiet time. The first thing was that they were to be baptized and join a church. We are required to live within a body of believers. The emphasis isn’t on the individual, rather on the body.

Paul’s directive is clear: Avoid an inflated sense of self-importance. Understand that your role within the body is a gracious gift from God. Identifying your place within the body of Christ is a pivotal act of consecration.

Diversity thrives within unity, and your unique gift plays an indispensable part in the body’s functioning.

When you become part of a church, the focus should shift from personal gain to communal enrichment. Instead of asking, “What can I gain?” redirect to, “How can I enrich the lives of those within this community?” It’s about becoming a conduit of blessings to the people you now call your own, aligning your purpose with theirs under the guidance of God.

In essence, discovering your role within the body of Christ isn’t just a personal pursuit; it’s an essential aspect of realizing God’s will. It’s about being an indispensable piece of the larger puzzle, saying how can I, under God, be a blessing to these people that I now identify with.

 

Pastor Rich is a dedicated minister and experienced business owner. I received my Master of Theological Studies from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and my Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Spurgeon College. With over eight years of experience in the ministry, I currently serve as the Outreach and Evangelism Pastor at First Baptist Church Springfield, MO.

richbitterman.com

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