Fulfill the Ministry That You Have Received
And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.” (Colossians 4:17)
Ministry often comes in seasons…some brief, others spanning decades. It’s usually easier to stay faithful in shorter assignments, but God calls us to fulfill all the ministry He entrusts to us. The challenge often arises when life’s seasons shift in ways that don’t align neatly with ministry seasons. Parenting little ones becomes guiding teens, then supporting adult children. Our health, careers, or circumstances may change, but the ministry God gives remains, and distractions can tempt us to drift from finishing well.
Paul’s reminder to Archippus is both practical and deeply personal. Imagine how Archippus felt hearing this admonishment read aloud to the entire church. He could have ignored it, bristled in anger and pride, or received it with humble gratitude. Accountability can feel uncomfortable, but it’s one of God’s gifts to help us stay the course.
How do you respond when someone calls you back to faithfulness? Do you shrug it off, take offense, or accept it as a blessing? A heart that is prideful will take offense and consider it criticism, but a heart that is wise embraces accountability and will see it as encouragement, not criticism.
What is God Speaking to YOU?
You may want to take some time to journal these with the Lord:
- What ministry has God given you in this season?
- How do you typically respond to accountability – both from God and others?
- What would it look like for you to finish well in your current calling?
May we hear the reminder and press on faithfully, trusting that the One who called us will also equip us to finish.