Day 13 Through The Bible
Day 13: God’s Work Beyond Our Boundaries
Biblical Principle:
One absolute truth in Scripture is that God’s work is not confined to our immediate surroundings. Faithful people worship and serve God in places beyond our awareness. This principle is beautifully illustrated in the story of Abraham and Melchizedek. When Abraham followed God’s call and arrived in the promised land, he encountered Melchizedek, the priest of the most high God.
In Genesis 14:18-20, we read: “And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God. And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.”
This encounter reveals a vital truth: Abraham was not alone in worshipping the one true God. God had placed others, like Melchizedek, to serve Him in unique roles and locations. It reminds us that God's work is broader than our personal sphere.
Practical Application:
The Christian walk requires us to intentionally apply the principles of God’s Word to our daily lives. A key area for application here is recognizing the breadth of God’s work across various Christian communities and traditions. Sometimes, we fall into the trap of believing that our group, denomination, or circle of influence holds exclusive rights to God's truth. The Bible warns against such thinking.
1 Corinthians 3:4-10 addresses this mindset directly: “For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.”
Paul reminds us that our focus should not be on human leaders or specific factions within the body of Christ. Instead, we should see ourselves as co-laborers with God, contributing to His larger purpose. No single group or person holds a monopoly on God’s work.
Reflection Questions:
How do you view other Christian traditions or groups? Do you see them as co-laborers or competitors?
What criteria do you use to identify yourself with a particular circle of Christianity? Are those criteria biblical or shaped by personal preference or pride?
How can you develop a more inclusive perspective celebrating God’s work through others?
A Challenge to Live Deliberately:
In your personal faith journey, embrace the diversity within the body of Christ. God calls people from different backgrounds and places to serve Him uniquely. Like Abraham, who encountered Melchizedek, be open to learning from those outside your immediate circle. Pray for humility and a spirit of unity as you labor together with others for God’s glory.
