July 25, 2025

AFFIRMED IN OUR CALLING

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“And the leaders of the church had nothing to add to what I was preaching. (By the way, their reputation as great leaders made no difference to me, for God has no favorites.) Instead, they saw that God had given me the responsibility of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles, just as he had given Peter the responsibility of preaching to the Jews. For the same God who worked through Peter as the apostle to the Jews also worked through me as the apostle to the Gentiles. In fact, James, Peter, and John, who were known as pillars of the church, recognized the gift God had given me, and they accepted Barnabas and me as their co-workers. They encouraged us to keep preaching to the Gentiles, while they continued their work with the Jews. Their only suggestion was that we keep on helping the poor, which I have always been eager to do.”

Galatians 2:6–10 NLT

---

TODAY’S THOUGHT

Paul continues his defense of his apostolic authority, especially in the face of Judaizers—those who insisted Gentile believers must adopt Jewish customs to truly follow Christ. Some of these false teachers not only spread a distorted gospel but also questioned Paul’s legitimacy as an apostle.

That’s why this passage is so important. Paul reminds the Galatians that when he met with the recognized leaders in Jerusalem, they didn’t correct him—they confirmed him. He was not only accepted; he was affirmed in his calling.

Key Truths from This Passage:

1. God Has No Favorites

Paul makes it clear that human reputation means little in God’s kingdom. We tend to value education, influence, status, or popularity—but none of these impress God.

What matters is God’s calling and gifting. When the Holy Spirit appoints someone, human endorsement is secondary. If God has called you, you don’t need to strive for approval from people to be effective in your ministry.

2. True Leaders Recognize the Gifts of Others

James, Peter, and John—pillars of the early church—recognized God’s grace in Paul and extended the right hand of fellowship to him and Barnabas.

Rather than feeling threatened by Paul’s influence or territory, they celebrated his calling. That’s the mark of a mature, Spirit-led leader. True spiritual leaders don’t compete; they complete.

3. Caring for the Poor Is Central to the Gospel

Even as Paul was commissioned to take the gospel to the Gentiles, the leaders reminded him of one vital thing: “Don’t forget the poor.”

This was not new to Paul—it was already on his heart. But it reinforces a timeless truth: The gospel is not only about proclamation but demonstration.

From the earliest days of the Church, caring for the poor and marginalized has been a visible fruit of real faith.

As Jesus said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these…you did for me.”

---

TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, help me to walk in confidence knowing that You show no favoritism. Let me honor the gifts You’ve given to others without comparison or jealousy. Give me eyes to see the poor and hurting around me—and a heart eager to serve them with Your love. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”