God Not Man

God Not Man

Galatians 1:11-12 New King James Version

11 But I make known to you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. 12 For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Paul

In our Sunday School class, we are currently studying through Galatians. I realized in the first couple of chapters Paul was intentional about writing that he was an apostle not from man, but from God. He repeats several times in those chapters that men did not appoint or call him, and man did not teach him the gospel, but the Holy Spirit did. 

Opinions

Recently I had someone tell me in not so many words that they didn’t like my teaching, and would rather listen to someone else. To say it didn’t bother me would be a lie.  My first reaction was to question myself, and what I know God has called me to do.

I rolled that around all day while the Lord continuously, and in many different ways, had to tell me that first off, just because someone doesn’t care for my teaching doesn’t mean it isn’t effective in helping others. He also reminded me that He uses me for His purposes so if someone doesn’t like that it would be between them and Him. Then He brought the lessons over the last couple of weeks to mind. 

Here’s the thing.  A lot of people aren’t going to like you.  That is just life. Their reasons really don’t matter because if someone’s eyes are fixed on Jesus instead of you, they won’t have the space to be negatively critical. As long as you are following God’s word and allowing Him to work through you instead of trying to do the work yourself you have nothing to worry about. 

There will always be a handful in the crowd who want things their way and who want what you teach to fit them perfectly. That’s not for you to deal with, that is God’s business. 

Read His Word

I urge you to read over Galatians chapters one and two and see what Paul says. In these scriptures he is speaking to a church that he has already given the gospel to, but now they are being led in the wrong direction by Judaizers who claim faith will not save you, but following the law and being circumcised is what saves you. If that were the case, then the crucifixion of Jesus was for nothing. It was these people who didn’t believe Paul was a true apostle. Let that sink in just a little bit.        

Read Galatians Chapter 1 and 2  

**Lord thank You for reminding me that even though I might not be everyone’s cup of tea You have called me and created me with a purpose. You have chosen me to do the work that You made a way for me to do and no one’s opinion was factored in when You did that. Help me to keep my focus on You and doing Your will and not be distracted by those who aren’t doing the same. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.**