In this passage, there is a kind of summary of the Christian life. First, it starts with God's call. And we could never even begin to see God unless He had already called us. The entire effort is His. The motivation and the foundation of everything is His gift of love.
Second, it develops through our effort. We are not called to dream but to fight, not to stand still but to climb. We are called not only to the most incredible privilege, but also to the most essential task in the world.
Third, this effort is continually supported by the saints and God Himself. The teaching and the guidance and example of godly men support this. God speaks to us through those He has already spoken through. A saint is someone who makes it easier for others to believe in God. Some help us not only through words and writings but simply by being who they are - men whose presence is like a reflection of God's truth and love.
God helps us. We are never left to battle and work alone. He who entrusts us with the task also provides us with the strength to accomplish it. In fact, He does it with us. And we are not thrown into the fight with just our limited resources. God is behind us and beside us.
And when Paul faced difficulties in Corinth, he had a nighttime vision in which the Lord said to him, Do not be afraid, for I am with you. That is in Acts 18:9-10.
Fourth, this call and effort are designed to bring about consecration and salvation. In Greek, something that is consecrated is set apart for a sacred use or purpose. And this call and effort are designed to set us apart in such a way that God can use us for His service now and in His Kingdom.
As a result, our lives no longer belong to us to do as we please. We belong to God for Him to use as He likes, as He pleases. This call and this effort aim to bring salvation. And although our physical life comes to an end over time, its ultimate goal is eternity. Therefore, we can see our present suffering as minor compared to the glory that awaits us.
God's Spirit supports us in our weakness and intercedes for us when we do not know how to pray, aligning our hearts with God's will. God works all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Therefore, we can have complete confidence in God's love for us and we will never feel like saying, It's enough now, Lord, take my life.
May God grant you comfort, especially in times of despair.
