And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. “And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more. Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God.

The Apostle Paul was single-hearted in fulfilling his assignment of telling people about Jesus and teaching God’s people the whole counsel of God. He was truly free from the entanglements of this world and took very seriously his responsibility to lead and shepherd people into a lasting relationship with Jesus Christ. The NIV puts it this way: “I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.”

You could see that this was a man with a clear conscience; he had obeyed the Lord in speaking the Word of God. You can also say that this was a man who had found the secret of contentment. He follows these words up with quoting the Lord Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than it is to receive.” He found that contentment truly comes when you give of yourself in service to Jesus and to others.

Paul’s dramatic statement: “I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God,” echoes through the centuries to every serious pastor and teacher of the Word of God. There is an incredible responsibility that I sense in pastoring God’s people, in declaring the truths of God’s Word and in living a life of integrity, so that my life is a platform from which my words gain credibility. People are hungry today for authenticity, for something that’s real and lasting. That’s only found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

I am motivated to be so rich in His Word so that God can work through me as a willing, though weak and imperfect vessel. The daily discipline of reading, meditating and journaling is so crucial to the honing of my communication skills as well as staying close to the heart of Father God.

Father God, thank you for the power of your Word. Thank you for using a man like Paul to teach your Word and pastor your people. Help me to stay in step with your Spirit so that I will be able to say with Paul, “I have not hesitated to proclaim the whole counsel of God.” Lead me by your Spirit as I prepare the teaching of your Word for each Sunday morning. Let it truly be Bread of Life for people. I set my heart to be saturated in your Word so that I can bring fresh Bread.